mining
Mar 26, 2025
Australian Mining
The 2025–26 Federal Budget has reconfirmed the Australian Government’s commitment to the critical minerals sector, with continued investment in downstream processing and production tax credits.
Key funding announced in the Budget includes:
“The [Federal] Government’s $700 million support for green metals, $2 billion Green Aluminium Production Credit, and the $1 billion Green Iron Investment Fund are welcomed announcements,” global engineering firm WSP managing director of mining and metals Paul Williams said.
“These will provide a significant opportunity to process and refine more of Australia’s natural resources in Australia, while doing it more sustainably using renewable energy.
“At the same time, this support highlights the need for more investment in the mining sector, so it can provide a steady supply of critical minerals to these processing industries.”
The Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) similarly welcomed the support for the critical minerals sector.
“The MCA welcomes the continuation of the Future Made in Australia production tax credits as a positive step,” MCA chief executive officer (CEO) Tania Constable said.
“These incentives are important for Australia’s critical minerals processing sector, ensuring global competitiveness and attracting long-term investment.”
However, industry groups argue that while these measures support established and downstream operations, more attention is needed for early-stage exploration.
A report by BDO found that the junior minerals exploration incentive has stimulated $404 million in greenfield exploration since 2017, generating significant returns for the economy and government revenue.
“After eight years of a successful program, we’ve been working with the government to evolve the incentive to be even more impactful,” Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) CEO Warren Pearce said.
“We are expecting that both major parties will address measures in the upcoming election to support the exploration sector in Australia, because without exploration you can’t find the mines of the future.”
While the budget delivers crucial support for critical minerals and infrastructure, industry leaders stress that maintaining a strong exploration pipeline is essential for securing Australia’s long-term resource future.
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Global Mining Review
Komatsu Breaks Ground On New Mining Sales And Service FacilityThis expansion will triple Komatsu’s current operational footprint in Mesa, enhancing its capacity to serve both existing and new customers in the area.
The new facility, strategically located near the airport in southeast Mesa, will span approximately 215000 ft2 – an impressive increase from the current 75 000 ft2 facility. Scheduled for completion in the summer of 2026, this US$80 million investment reflects Komatsu’s dedication to supporting its customers in the Southwestern US.
Tom Suess, Vice President of Komatsu North America Mining Stores, said:
"As the copper industry continues to grow, Arizona is at the heart of that momentum. Expanding our presence in the Mesa area positions us to support our customers and partners in a region that’s leading the way in critical mineral production."
Komatsu leadership celebrated the groundbreaking alongside several of the company’s mining customers, the Arizona Commerce Authority and the City of Mesa.
Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, said:
“We are excited to celebrate the groundbreaking of Komatsu’s new facility in Mesa. Arizona is the number one exporting state in the country for mineral ores, with continued growth and opportunities on the horizon.”
Mesa Mayor, Mark Freeman, said:
“We are very pleased to welcome Komatsu’s new facility to Mesa. Mesa's strategic investments in infrastructure and world-class amenities make us a premier destination for businesses such as Komatsu to thrive and grow with our community.”
The project is expected to promote significant economic benefits for the area. In addition to creating short-term construction jobs during the building phase, Komatsu anticipates the addition of up to 100 new long-term positions within the first few years of operation.mining
03 April 2025
Africa Mining Market
How Rental Partners Improve Mining Dewatering AgilityMost mines operate permanent dewatering infrastructure to safeguard operations and safety. Yet, as mines dig deeper and wider for high-quality minerals, contend with extreme weather shifts, and manage water debris and contaminants, dewatering requirements are creeping outside the scope and budgets of established systems.
Normally, this shift would require expensive capital expenditure to expand dewatering capabilities. But rental fleets provide cost-effective and agile alternatives that complement existing dewatering infrastructure and planning.
Dewatering is inherently costly, requiring specialised equipment like high-capacity pumps, filtration systems, and pipelines, as well as ongoing operational and maintenance expenses for handling corrosive and abrasive mine water. Sites need the right pumps for their conditions, supported by key infrastructure such as the appropriate pipelines and power supplies.
These factors make it tough for mines to maintain resilient dewatering systems as market and weather conditions shift.
“Dewatering systems are sensitive to changes in site variables, requiring operators to consider several factors,” says Chetan Mistry, strategy and marketing manager at Xylem Africa. “As they go deeper underground, they need to ensure the equipment caters for water table levels, ground water flow, climate changes (particularly heavy rainfall) water quality, explosion\flame proofing and that elements like electric cables and pipe inlets don’t endanger personnel. Many mines, especially open-pit mines, dig wells to help their dewatering. These interventions require planning and design, creating unexpected costs when unexpected things happen.”
Unexpected things are happening. According to the 2019 CDP report, In Too Deep, intensified storms and flooding are already the top two drivers of negative financial impact on mining operations, collectively accounting for over a third of mining disruptions.
Reactively upgrading dewatering infrastructure is unsustainable. Instead, mines need breathing room so they can hone their dewatering plans and budgets. The smart choice is to incorporate rental dewatering fleets into their strategies.
Mines frequently use industrial equipment rentals, a market valued at over US$141 billion. As dewatering expands from routine services to strategic operations, mines have increased their use of rental dewatering fleets and crews.
Rental fleets provide skilled operators and modern equipment, empowering mines to develop flexible dewatering strategies without risking capital expenditure. Rental operators shoulder the responsibility of equipment maintenance and human capital development, recouping their costs through services to multiple clients.
This approach offers significant budget advantages to mines. Renting dewatering equipment delays and even eliminates weighty capital investments. Instead of tying up capital, mines can allocate resources more efficiently by renting pumps and other dewatering equipment on an as-needed basis.
Rental agreements also enable mines to scale their dewatering operations based on fluctuating needs, such as varying water levels, changing project requirements, and emergencies. Reputable rental companies minimise downtime and prevent costly damages. They offer rapid response dewatering solutions, cultivating the resources and expertise to deploy pumps and other equipment in critical dewatering situations.
The best rental fleet operators partner closely with water equipment OEMs, ensuring access to new technologies, the latest training, and optimal maintenance, says Mistry.
“Rental fleet business models can invest in new and varied technologies, ensuring they have the most efficient and suitable options for different environments. This helps their mining clients to remain flexible and plan for the long term.”
Examples include high-capacity centrifugal pumps for large volumes, submersible borehole pumps for deep wells, positive displacement pumps for handling high solids content, pontoon-mounted pumps for open water, and submersible pumps designed for confined spaces. Leading rental companies also have specialised pumps and skills to handle contaminated water and reduce environmental impacts.
Mining operations face harsher weather, changing market demands, and more variable conditions. Agile dewatering opens up space in their budgets and timetables, using rental agreements to create flexibility and scalability, as well as access to advanced technology.
“Mines can tailor rental agreements to match their needs, whether it’s for exploration, emergencies, or managing elements such as slurry dams and environmental concerns,” says Mistry. “Rental fleets enable mines to stay in charge and profitable while reducing their water-related risks.”mining
02 April 2025
Australian Mining
1.1-Billion-Tonne Phosphate Resource Gets Nt BackingThe Northern Territory Government has granted two mineral leases to Verdant Minerals, a privately-owned fertiliser minerals explorer focusing on phosphate and sulfate of potash.
The two mineral leases concern Verdant’s Ammaroo phosphate project in the NT, which has an estimated mine life of at least 25 years and an estimated capital expenditure of $700 million.
Acting NT Chief Minister and Mining and Energy Minister Gerard Maley said the leases are a critical step towards bringing a promising mining development closer to production in central Australia.
“This is a significant milestone in progressing a world-class resource project that will support jobs, drive investment, and strengthen the NT’s position as a leader in resource development,” Maley said.
“The Ammaroo project will support 400 jobs in construction and another 250 jobs once in production, delivering real benefits for local communities and businesses, and help deliver on our promise to rebuild the economy.”
Ammaroo has an independent JORC resource of 1.141 billion tonnes of phosphorus pentoxide at an average grade of 14 per cent, making it the largest JORC compliant phosphate resource in Australia and one of the largest undeveloped phosphate resources globally.
Building off this significance, Verdant is now in the final stages of securing its mining authorisation, which will allow construction and other site works to commence at the site.
“With the project now consented to by Native Title Holders and the NT Government granting tenure, Verdant now has crucial certainty to progress the project financing process,” Verdant managing director Chris Tziolis said.
“We thank the NT Government for their continued support of the project, and we welcome steps taken by the new government to progress projects like ours.”
Considered one of the NT’s 17 critical minerals, phosphate is a critical component in many fertilisers.
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01 April 2025
Mining Technology
Luca Mining Begins Commercial Production At Tahuehueto Mine In MexicoCanadian mining company Luca Mining has started commercial production at its Tahuehueto gold-silver mine in Durango, Mexico.
The company has achieved a consistent throughput rate of more than 800 tonnes per day (tpd) at the project.
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The construction of the Tahuehueto mine was completed in July 2024.
For 2025, Luca Mining anticipates producing between 85,000 and 100,000 gold equivalent ounces, with payable ounces expected to range from 65,000 to 80,000.
Luca Mining president Ramon Perez said: “This milestone marks a significant step in the mine’s development, reflecting the operational team’s dedication and the effectiveness of recent optimisation efforts.”
The company projects generating free cash flow before working capital adjustments of $30–40m.
In 2025, the company will invest $27.4m (C$39.44m) in its projects, allocating $23.5m to sustaining capital and $3.9m to exploration across its two operating mines, funded by operational cash flow.
In Tahuehueto, infrastructure enhancements including the construction of a spare parts warehouse are being prioritised to improve operational resilience.
The processing plant, with an installed capacity of 1,000tpd and production rates of up to 1,200tpd, currently operates at 82% availability, with plans to increase this to 85–90%.
In Tahuehueto, $10.5m is planned for capital expenditures, with $6.5m for mine workings and $2.6m for a 5km drilling exploration programme aimed at resource expansion and mine life extension.
Efforts are also ongoing to increase throughput to above 2,000tpd by the end of 2025 at the company’s other mine, Campo Morado, with a focus on improving metal recoveries and grade consistency.
Campo Morado is an underground operation in Guerrero State, producing copper-zinc-lead concentrates with precious metals credits.
The development of a third copper concentrate is expected to improve the payability of precious metals.
A minimum 5km exploration programme is planned to expand mineral resources and continue production for the long term.
At Campo Morado, $13m is allocated to capital projects, including $10m for the development of mine workings. A 5km, $1.3m drilling exploration programme is set to increase high-grade resources and evaluate regional targets.mining
01 April 2025
Mining Technology
Metalsgrove Mining Acquires Three Gold Permits In Côte D’IvoireAustralian miner MetalsGrove Mining has signed a binding term sheet with Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)-listed Desert Metals and its subsidiaries to acquire three gold joint venture (JV) permits in Côte d’Ivoire, West Africa.
The acquired permits encompassing the Vavoua, Vavoua West and Kounahiri West projects, collectively known as the Central West Gold Joint Venture (JV), are currently held by Générale des Mines et Carrières (GEMICA), a privately owned company in Côte d’Ivoire.
Desert Metals holds the right to earn a majority interest in each of the permits under existing JV arrangements.
Under the terms of the deal, Desert Metals will transfer its JV rights to MetalsGrove in exchange for a structured consideration.
This includes an initial A$50,000 ($31,426.3) cash payment upon the grant of the Vavoua licence, followed by another A$50,000 upon the grant of either the Vavoua West or Kounahiri West licence, whichever is first.
Additionally, a milestone-based payment of A$1m will be made upon the estimation of a JORC-compliant mineral resource exceeding 500,000oz of gold (or gold equivalent) with a grade above one gram per tonne, with a maximum payout of A$3m.
Lastly, Desert Metals will receive a 1% net smelter royalty on production from the projects, capped at either A$3m or the royalty amount from the first 125,000oz of gold production, whichever is greater.
This strategic move will enable Desert Metals to focus on its principal Adzope and Tengrela South gold projects.
Desert Metals managing director Stephen Ross said: “Throughout our exploration programmes in Côte d’Ivoire since 2023, we have strategically concentrated our resources and expertise on our two flagship projects: the highly prospective Adzope gold project in the southern region and the advanced Tengrela South gold project in the north.
“While the GEMICA joint venture projects demonstrate significant potential for gold mineralisation, particularly given their location along the same structural corridor as the producing Abujar gold mine, we had earmarked them for future greenfields exploration pending the grant of permits as well as budget allocation.”
The three permits span approximately 950km² and are strategically positioned between 60km and 140km north-east of the operational 3.8-million-ounces Abujar gold mine.
These greenfield projects are pending formal approval and have not yet undergone modern mineral exploration.
The Vavoua permit is due to be officially granted soon following approval by the Interministerial Committee.
MetalsGrove Mining managing director and CEO Lijun Yang said: “This strategic acquisition allows us to leverage our extensive gold exploration expertise within this prolific geological setting.
“With a favourable geological framework, highly anomalous gold results from neighbouring projects and structural insights derived from aeromagnetic surveys, we are confident in the potential to identify significant gold deposits.
“Our initial exploration programme will commence promptly upon the successful completion of the transaction and once permits are granted.”
In December 2023, Desert Metals agreed to acquire Côte d’Ivoire-based CDI Resources.mining
01 April 2025
Mining Technology
Duketon Mining Granted New Gold-Prospective Tenement At Barlee Project In AustraliaDuketon Mining has been granted a new tenement, E77/3160, at its 100%-owned Barlee Project in Western Australia’s (WA) Southern Cross region.
This tenement is considered prospective for gold, base metals and lithium, further expanding Duketon’s portfolio in the area.
The Barlee Project is located approximately 200km north of Southern Cross in a region with several small gold deposits including the Mt Dimer and Marda Gold projects, and the Penny Mine.
The newly acquired land adjoins the company’s existing holdings, increasing the total granted tenure at the project to 253km² and extending the project by 38km along the Youanmi and Clampton faults.
The Barlee tenement covers the granite-greenstone contact, primarily overlying the Archean Diemals Formation, known for its siltstones, shales and mudstone.
This area is part of a fault-bounded basin with mineralisation observed in the south at gold prospects such as Bronzewing, Yarbu and Andromeda.
The project’s southern tenements, contiguous with the company’s existing holdings, have defined gold targets from broad spacing auger sampling, which are yet to be drilled.
Prior exploration on E77/3160 includes regional auger soil sampling, with 306 samples collected and analysed, revealing a maximum gold concentration of 92.7 parts per billion (ppb) and several anomalies over 30ppb gold.
Ultra-fine fraction (UFF) soil geochemistry has identified two significant gold anomalies on the tenement.
In the north, a 3.8km by 1.8km anomaly lies near the Clampton Fault, while in the south, a 3.2km by 2.2km anomaly is associated with the Diemals Formation.
Additionally, six rock chip samples were collected as part of a lithium-focused reconnaissance programme, although no significant assays resulted from this non-targeted sampling. In August 2023, Rox Resources secured binding commitments for a placement of A$7m ($4.5m) to support development programmes at its Youanmi gold project in WA.mining
01 April 2025
Global Mining Review
Ensuring Productivity, Sustainability, And Safety In Deep Underground MiningThe fast-growing digitalisation and automation of the underground hard rock industry is bringing with it innovative safety and productivity solutions, which many companies are starting to employ.
In July 2022, Komatsu Ltd. acquired Australia-based Mine Site Technologies (MST), which provides critical operational platforms for underground mining that leverages communication devices and position tracking systems. MST uses the HELIX enterprise software platform, which helps customers build digital ecosystems with real-time insights and alerts, voice and communication technologies, targeted modular solutions, robust network infrastructure, and wireless and geospatial technologies.
HELIX and its solution-based modules offer comprehensive digital monitoring, automation, and control for all operations, creating a real-time digital twin of the entire mine. It includes next-generation precision tracking, proximity detection, and collision avoidance, all unified by Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GNSS. Soon, Ultra-Wide Band (UWB) technology with V2X data capability will also be integrated.
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MST’s AXON devices provide the network infrastructure for data and communications, while HELIX serves to bring all collected data together in a useful and meaningful way. Like the modular ecosystem introduced by Komatsu at MINExpo for surface mining, MST systems are OEM-agnostic, interoperable, and integrate easily with disparate systems at the task, process, and enterprise levels. Customers who have mixed fleets are able to use MST seamlessly across their entire network of equipment, due to the interoperability that we offer.
At MINExpo, MST introduced HELIX Dispatch, a fleet management system specifically designed to help visualise and manage load and haul processes entirely underground.mining
01 April 2025
Mining Technology
Denarius Metals Commences Mining At Zancudo Project In ColombiaCanadian junior exploration company Denarius Metals has officially started mining activities at its Zancudo gold-silver project in Colombia.
The first production from the project is anticipated in the second quarter of 2025 (Q2 2025).
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This milestone reflects the company’s efforts throughout 2024 to advance the project’s development and construction, secure the necessary mining licence and gain approval for the environmental impact study (EIS).
In 2024, it prioritised the Zancudo and Aguablanca projects in Spain, with both expected to start operations within the next 12 months, thus providing internal cash flow.
The company also announced that the European Commission has recognised Aguablanca as a strategic project.
Denarius Metals has secured the long-term economics of its projects by signing offtake contracts with global companies for 100% of concentrate production.
An eight-year contract with Trafigura for Zancudo’s gold-silver concentrate and an agreement with Boliden Commercial for Aguablanca’s nickel-copper concentrate were signed in 2024.
Additionally, a prepayment agreement with Trafigura in February 2025 provided $2.5m (C3.6m) upfront, with up to $6.5m more expected as construction milestones are reached at the Zancudo project.
The Zancudo project’s development plan, executed by the company’s mine contractor, aims to open four primary fronts within the next four to six months.
Concurrently, early production activities have commenced, with mining already under way in accessible areas.
The contractor is stockpiling ore on-site, with deliveries to Trafigura under an offtake contract set to begin by the end of April.
All processing plant equipment has arrived and is stored at the site, with earthworks starting soon and installation of the plant scheduled over the summer. The plant is set to commence operations by Q4 2025.
To mitigate the impact of permitting and licensing delays experienced in 2024, Denarius Metals improved its financial liquidity by amending the terms of its convertible debentures and selling a 29% equity interest in Rio Narcea Recursos (RNR), Aguablanca project’s owner, back to the RNR Shareholder Group, retaining a 21% fully paid equity interest.
In December 2023, Denarius Metals signed a definitive agreement to acquire a 50% stake in RNR for a cash consideration of €25m ($27m).mining
01 April 2025
Africa Mining Market
Caledonia Mining Described 2024 ‘A Year Of Significant…Caledonia Mining Corporation PLC described 2024 as ‘a year of significant progress’, financially and operationally, as it reported record annual results.
Operating cash flow totalled US$42 million, from US$14.8 million, on 76,656 ounces of gold production.
Gross revenue rose to US$183 million, from US$146.3 million in 2023, whilst gross profit increased by 86% to US$77 million.
The company, meanwhile, reported a net attributable profit of US$17.9 million versus a US$7.9 million net loss in the prior year.
On a per-share basis, it reported earnings (adjusted) of 125.2 cents. Meanwhile, shareholders are set to receive a 14 cents per share dividend.
“Our financial performance benefited from a higher gold price environment, which resulted in a significant increase in gross profit and operating cashflows,” chief executive Mark Learmonth said.
Learmonth, meanwhile, highlighted that Caledonia’s strategic vision remains to become a multi-asset, Zimbabwe-focused gold producer, with immediate attention on the Bilboes mine, where extended feasibility work is expected unearth cost-saving opportunities and enhance project economics.
“Bilboes remains a highly attractive project, and we are confident that we will find the optimal development method to maximise returns for shareholders,” Learmonth added.
“We continue to refine the feasibility study, exploring ways to enhance project economics and reduce upfront capital requirements.
“We are confident that by taking a disciplined approach we can develop the project in a way that creates long term value while maintaining financial prudence.”
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31 March 2025
Australian Mining
Ssh To Bolster Mining Services CapabilitiesIndustrial services company SSH Group has signed a non-binding term sheet to acquire Total Contract Mining (TCM), an Australian privately owned mining services provider.
TCM specialises in identifying high-potential mineral assets and presenting their owners with streamlined approaches to early-stage production.
The company’s services cover underground mining capabilities such as production drilling and charging, bogging, haul and backfill, and surface mining applications like mine planning, material handling and crushing and screening.
SSH said acquiring TCM aligns with its strategy to rapidly grow its mining services capabilities and strengthen its position in the Australian resources sector.
The transaction would also expand SSH’s mining services proficiencies by expanding its vertical from workforce to production capability.
“The signing of this non-binding term sheet for the potential acquisition of Total Contract Mining represents another significant step in our strategy to grow our mining services division,” SSH managing director Daniel Cowley-Cooper said.
“This opportunity, combined with our recent progress in securing key agreements and advancing discussions in the sector, positions SSH Group for potential substantial growth in the Australian resources industry.”
The potential acquisition is subject to a range of conditions, including due diligence, employment agreements with key personnel, board approvals, and the negotiation and execution of definitive agreements.
Both SSH and TCM expect due diligence to be finalised and the agreement to be executed within four weeks following the signage of the non-binding term sheet.
During the due diligence period, TCM will exclusively deal with SSH and won’t engage in discussions or agreements with any other party, and SSH will review and analyse TCM’s current workbook of mining projects and pipeline of opportunities it has shortlisted.
The value and considerations for the proposed acquisition will be agreed upon during the due diligence process.
If the acquisition is successful, TCM founder and managing director Sam Baker and operations director Kevin Malaxos will join SSH to ensure a smooth integration, with Malaxos having the opportunity to join SSH as a non-executive director.
“This is a move designed to create value, deliver scale, and build resilience in SSH’s operating model,” Cowley-Cooper said.
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31 March 2025Mining Technology
Canada One Mining Expands Copper Dome Project Landing Holdings In BcCanada One Mining has expanded its Copper Dome project in Princeton, British Columbia (BC) with the addition of 1,728ha of land holdings named Copper Dome East.
With this addition, the total size of the land position at Copper Dome has now increased to 7,997ha.
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The company’s immediate focus remains on the Boundary Zone, which is located just south of the Copper Mountain Mine and 1.5km from the mine’s super pit.
This new claim group, staked by the company, is contiguous to the existing project and will be explored for porphyry copper and molybdenum mineralisation.
Canada One Mining is currently awaiting its drill permit, which is expected to be granted shortly.
The expansion covers an area with two historically identified mobile metal ion (MMI) anomalies.
The first is a copper-silver anomaly, approximately 2.9km long and 1.3–1.9km wide, while the second is a molybdenum anomaly, around 2.1km long and 400–900m wide.
The Copper Dome Project is situated within the lower portion of the Quesnel Trough porphyry belt, a prolific mining district that includes several established mines.
Past exploration at the project has also confirmed the presence of palladium, platinum and gold mineralisation on the property.
The exploration history of the project includes airborne magnetics flown over the entire area, 51km of induced polarisation surveyed, as well as airborne magnetics and electro-magnetics surveyed over half of the project area.
Additionally, 2,253 soil and 378 rock samples have been collected, with more than 8.9km of diamond drilling and more than 1km of trenching conducted.mining
28 March 2025Australian Mining
Martinus Steps Up In Mining LogisticsGetting resources from pit to port takes more than just machinery, it takes smart execution, long-term planning and the right networks across the supply chain, including rail and logistics.
Martinus was recently on the ground in Dysart, Queensland as Vitrinite launched its new HW300 highwall miner in a major milestone for Australian mining.
Martinus general manager – strategy and business development Jonathon Shwabsky and business development manager – haulage Lee Morrissey joined industry leaders to see firsthand how, through pioneering technology, the Vulcan South operation is shaping the future of the mining sector.
For Martinus, Australia’s largest privately-owned rail infrastructure company, delivering infrastructure is just the beginning. True project success means looking beyond development, keeping operations moving efficiently, sustainably and with the right expertise in place.
Martinus is making significant strides in the rail haulage sector with its approach to full-scale, construct and haul opportunities, as well as providing next generation solutions to existing miners and heavy industry.
Emphasising the full-scale contract and haulage model, Martinus has the capability to implement a comprehensive develop, build, own, operate and maintain model, which has the company poised to transform rail haulage services across the industry.
“Our construct and haul capabilities are a testament to our commitment to not just participate in the market, but to lead it,” Morrissey said.
“By overseeing every aspect of the infrastructure lifecycle, we can drive resilience, consistency, and efficiency into supply chains.”
Partnerships are the key to success. By partnering with leading locomotive manufacturers, Martinus is constantly driving innovation in all that it does, enhancing its service capabilities and operational efficiency in the process.
Faced with a general lack of investment in the industry, Martinus is boldly stepping forward to change the narrative.
“We are not just investing in rail; we are supporting the future of Australian industry,” Morrissey said. “Our proactive efforts to build and expand the next generation of railway infrastructure is setting new standards for commitment and development within our sector.”
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28 March 2025Australian Mining
Secure Your Tickets For Wa Mining ConferenceAfter a sold-out show in 2024, the WA Mining Conference and Exhibition (WA Mining) will return to Perth from October 8–9, once again transforming the city into the focal point of mining for two days.
With WA being a powerhouse of Australia’s resources sector, the strategically located event attracts key players from the state’s mining industry in one convenient location.
Building on the success of last year’s event, 2025 is taking things up a notch, delivering more thought-leading content, key exhibitors and significant players than ever before.
Dredge Robotics commercial manager (west coast) Barry Steed said the event enabled the company to connect with major mining companies who were interested in the company’s tech.
“We’re pretty well established in the WA market across the bulk of the miners, but you come to these shows and there’s always someone new and different,” he said.
“It’s a good way to condense a lot into a fairly short period of time.”
Blackwoods national account manager Luke Bodel said there were a lot of networking opportunities and people to talk to and connect with at the 2024 event.
“Mining in WA and across Australia is very regional based – it’s very hard and costly to visit everyone in the sector,” he said.
“These events give you an opportunity to draw those people into one room to capture as much as you can, in a streamlined way to allow you to follow up later.”
RaptorTech co-founder and chief technology officer Aaron Lock said that the boosted exposure from events like WA Mining deliver in what can be a challenging marketplace.
“Brand recognition is really important, it’s about people knowing you’re there,” Lock said.
“We’ve got people that saw us last year – they’ve come back this year and they’ve seen how much our stuff’s evolved and are really interested in working with us.”
Attendees can secure their tickets now to lock in an exclusive early-bird price.
For more information or to take part in the event, visit waminingexpo.com.au/getinvolvedmining
28 March 2025Mining Technology
Ssh Group Eyes Total Contract Mining Acquisition To Bolster Mining ServicesAustralian industrial services provider SSH Group has entered a non-binding term sheet to potentially acquire Total Contract Mining (TCM) to expand its mining services capabilities and bolster its position in the Australian resources sector.
This initiative follows SSH Group’s recent efforts to enhance its mining services offerings, which include expanding its Mining Services vertical, restructuring business units for better scale and synergy, and focusing on providing comprehensive turnkey mining solutions.
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The transaction is subject to various conditions including due diligence, key personnel agreements and board approvals.
The companies expect the due diligence process and the finalisation of the agreement to take place within four weeks of the signing date.
During this period, TCM has agreed to exclusively negotiate with SSH and refrain from engaging with other potential buyers.
SSH Group managing director Daniel Cowley-Cooper said: “The signing of this non-binding term sheet for the potential acquisition of Total Contract Mining represents another significant step in our strategy to grow our Mining Services division.
“This opportunity, combined with our recent progress in securing key agreements and advancing discussions in the sector, positions SSH Group for potential substantial growth in the Australian resources industry. This is a move designed to create value, deliver scale and build resilience in SSH’s operating model.”
The proposed acquisition will add two key executives, Kevin Malaxos and Sam Baker, from TCM, with Malaxos being considered for a non-executive director position on the SSH Group board.
The financial details of the potential acquisition are yet to be determined and will be established through the due diligence process.
SSH Group and TCM are working towards a consideration structure that will likely include a mix of cash and SSH securities, linking the transaction to performance milestones and fostering post-acquisition alignment between the two entities.
In February 2025, Pure Resources entered into a non-binding heads of agreement with SSH Group to accelerate the development of the Reedy Creek Garnet Project in Western Australia.mining
28 March 2025Global Mining Review
Unlocking Energy Efficiency And Longevity In MiningAs the mining industry faces increasing pressure to reduce operational costs and minimise environmental impact, optimising energy efficiency has become a top priority. However, one often-overlooked contributor to energy loss is friction within essential mining equipment. High loads, harsh conditions, and intense operational demands can cause substantial wear on machinery, leading to higher energy consumption and more frequent maintenance cycles. This is where energy-efficient lubricants – specifically designed to meet the unique demands of mining environments – come into play.
The article explores how energy-efficient lubricants can deliver tangible savings and enhance equipment reliability in mining operations. By switching to these advanced solutions, the global mining industry could potentially save more than €1 billion annually. From reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions to increasing output of mills and lowering total ownership costs, the switch to specialised lubrication solutions represents a smart investment for any mining operation aiming to boost productivity and sustainability.
With years of experience in the mining sector, Klüber Lubrication’s expertise in energy-efficient lubrication brings practical solutions to the mining sector. This article will explain how a small change in lubrication can drive big productivity gains, with real-world case studies, potential savings estimates, and guidance on implementing these advanced lubricants in their own operations.
With substantial energy requirements, mining operations often bear the brunt of rising electricity and energy costs. For many mining sites, critical machinery such as crushers, conveyors, and grinding mills account for a significant portion of operational electricity expenses. As environmental regulations tighten and the demand for sustainable practices grows, the industry is under pressure to adopt energy-efficient technologies that align with standards like ISO 50001 and other energy management certifications.
One often-overlooked area for improving energy efficiency lies in the selection of lubricants. By switching to energy-efficient specialty lubricants, mining operations can reduce electricity consumption, lower costs, and contribute to environmental targets – all while optimising machinery performance under demanding conditions.mining
27 March 2025Mining Technology
Future Of Work Technologies ‘Making Mining Safer’Future of work technologies – comprising the categories of visualisation, automation, interpretation, collaboration and connectivity – are playing a crucial role in improving safety within the mining industry, a new report outlines.
GlobalData’s The Future of Work in Mining report states that automation in particular is helping to improve mining safety by removing workers from dangerous jobs.
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“Working in the mining sector will, and already does, involve using automated equipment across all points of the mining process,” it explains. “Automated or remote-controlled equipment can drill blast boreholes without human intervention. Autonomous trucks can take ore from sites to processing facilities, and autonomous trains can take the finished product to ports hundreds of kilometres away.”
The report notes that automation technology like drones, autonomous haulage systems (AHSs), autonomous or remote-controlled mining equipment and robots are already being adopted within the industry to improve productivity and safety.
“These technologies reduce costs in the long run and prevent workplace accidents by reducing the time workers spend in dangerous environments,” it says. “AHS removes human error and fatigue from ore haulage while increasing productivity through constant availability. 3D printing allows mining companies to print equipment, including personal protective equipment, supporting more efficient inventory management closer to home.”
The impact of automation in the form of robotics on safety is being recognised within the industry. The report references a GlobalData poll that found 36% of mining industry experts believe that robotics will have the greatest impact on safety. Only ‘improving productivity’ was found to be viewed as a bigger impact at 37%.
Elsewhere, the report notes that visualisation also has a role to play in improving safety by realistically simulating hazardous working environments for training and preparation.
“Digital twins of mining sites help companies test new methodologies and plan schedules while allowing for predictive maintenance, ultimately optimising the mining process,” the report says. “Augmented reality and virtual reality platforms allow for more realistic visual simulations, resulting in workers who are better prepared for emergency scenarios like cave-ins and malfunctions.”
Aidan Knight, associate analyst at GlobalData and author of the company’s The Future of Work in Mining report, commented: “Over the past thirty years, the mining sector has made significant strides in enhancing safety measures. Despite these improvements, the industry continues to present considerable risks, contributing to an increasingly pronounced skills shortage.
“Our Future of Work framework outlines technologies poised to markedly enhance safety records and bolster the industry’s appeal to potential employees. The integration of industrial automation, including autonomous haulage and workflow automation, has the potential to significantly reduce the exposure of workers to hazardous conditions. Additionally, the implementation of wearable technology offers the capability to monitor employees’ health and fatigue levels in real time.”
Knight added that investing in future of work technologies not only improves safety for mining companies but helps them to maintain a competitive advantage.mining
27 March 2025Mining Technology
Gibb River Diamonds Submits Mining Proposal For Australia’S Edjudina Gold ProjectGibb River Diamonds, an Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)-listed mineral exploration and development company, has submitted a mining proposal to the West Australian Mines Department to advance its Edjudina Gold Project in Western Australia (WA).
The proposal is a move towards mining the project’s Neta Gold Prospect, which has a JORC resource of 378,000 tonnes (t) at 1.9 grams per tonne (g/t) for 24,000oz of gold and an indicated resource of 110,000t at 2.2g/t for 8,000oz of gold.
The Edjudina Gold Project is strategically located 145km north-east of Kalgoorlie in the Eastern Goldfields of WA. It features gold workings over a 13km strike with high-grade veins.
A haul road operated by Northern Star Resources intersects the project, providing direct access to the Carosue Dam milling complex 45km from the project.
The Neta Prospect is located on the M31/495 granted mining lease at the project.
The mining proposal, if granted, will enable the company to commence a mine and haul operation at the Neta Prospect.
The company is prioritising toll treatment arrangements with third-party mills to expedite the prospect’s development process.
Gibb River Diamonds is also engaging with the WTAC Native Title group to schedule a heritage survey at the Edjudina Project.
In a press statement, Gibb River Diamonds stated: “The company is currently communicating with the WTAC Native Title group to finalise a date for a heritage survey to be conducted at the Edjudina Project. It is anticipated that this heritage survey will take place sometime in April 2025.
“This survey will assist in facilitating both mining at the Neta Prospect and the drilling of new exploration targets in the company’s recently acquired and highly prospective mining lease M31/481, adjacent to the proposed Neta mining area.”
Currently, the company is in discussions with various West Australian groups specialising in mine, haul and toll milling gold operations.
In May 2024, Gibb River Diamonds secured three mining leases, advancing the revival of the Ellendale Diamond Project in WA.mining
27 March 2025Australian Mining
What Does The Federal Budget Mean For The Mining Sector?The 2025–26 Federal Budget has reconfirmed the Australian Government’s commitment to the critical minerals sector, with continued investment in downstream processing and production tax credits.
Key funding announced in the Budget includes:
“The [Federal] Government’s $700 million support for green metals, $2 billion Green Aluminium Production Credit, and the $1 billion Green Iron Investment Fund are welcomed announcements,” global engineering firm WSP managing director of mining and metals Paul Williams said.
“These will provide a significant opportunity to process and refine more of Australia’s natural resources in Australia, while doing it more sustainably using renewable energy.
“At the same time, this support highlights the need for more investment in the mining sector, so it can provide a steady supply of critical minerals to these processing industries.”
The Minerals Council of Australia (MCA) similarly welcomed the support for the critical minerals sector.
“The MCA welcomes the continuation of the Future Made in Australia production tax credits as a positive step,” MCA chief executive officer (CEO) Tania Constable said.
“These incentives are important for Australia’s critical minerals processing sector, ensuring global competitiveness and attracting long-term investment.”
However, industry groups argue that while these measures support established and downstream operations, more attention is needed for early-stage exploration.
A report by BDO found that the junior minerals exploration incentive has stimulated $404 million in greenfield exploration since 2017, generating significant returns for the economy and government revenue.
“After eight years of a successful program, we’ve been working with the government to evolve the incentive to be even more impactful,” Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) CEO Warren Pearce said.
“We are expecting that both major parties will address measures in the upcoming election to support the exploration sector in Australia, because without exploration you can’t find the mines of the future.”
While the budget delivers crucial support for critical minerals and infrastructure, industry leaders stress that maintaining a strong exploration pipeline is essential for securing Australia’s long-term resource future.
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26 March 2025Mining Technology
Ocean Power Technologies Sells Wam-V To Latin American Mining CustomerOcean Power Technologies (OPT) has sold a Wave Adaptive Modular Vessel (WAM-V) to a mining customer in Latin America for an onshore mining application.
The undisclosed customer plans to deploy the WAM-V for bathymetry surveys, highlighting the vessel’s capability to meet the changing needs of both offshore and onshore operations.
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The WAM-V features stability, lightweight build and modular design, which allows for rapid customisation to suit various mission objectives.
The ability of the WAM-V to launch from nearly any location and function in diverse sea conditions with minimal environmental impact positions it as an attractive option for industries seeking cost-efficient and effective autonomous surface vessel (ASV) solutions.
This sale represents a significant step into a new industry for OPT, showcasing the versatility of its ASV technology.
OPT’s global expansion is underscored by this transaction, indicating a growing demand for autonomous maritime technologies across different sectors and geographical areas.
OPT CEO Philipp Stratmann said: “This sale represents a major milestone for OPT as we continue to expand the applications of our WAM-V technology across new industries and geographies.
“The flexibility and reliability of the WAM-V platform makes it an ideal solution for a broad range of missions and industries. We are excited to support our new Latin American partner with state-of-the-art autonomous technology tailored to their operational needs. Whether you are operating onshore or offshore, as long as there is a need for a floating system, OPT is ready to support your projects.”mining
26 March 2025Australian Mining
Black Cat Accelerates Mining At Kal EastBlack Cat Syndicate has commenced mining at the Boundary open pit within the Kal East gold operation in Western Australia ahead of schedule.
With ground clearing complete and pre-strip of waste currently underway, the Boundary open pit is expected to have a mine life of 4–5 months, with potential to extend through a cut back to the south.
Two dig fleets are currently operating between the Boundary and Myhree open pits, with a 200-tonne excavator pre-stripping waste at Boundary.
Topsoil stripping is also underway at Boundary in preparation for initial grade control drilling taking place in March and continuing into April.
Once ore is produced from the Boundary and Myhree open pits, it will be transported to Black Cat’s newly acquired Lakewood processing facility, which is located 40km from Kal East and has a 1.2 million tonnes per annum capacity.
The acquisition is expected to be finalised on March 31, with ore processing to commence at Lakewood in April.
“With the Lakewood acquisition, subject to completion, we have accelerated mining at Boundary with ground clearing complete and pre-strip well underway,” Black Cat managing director Gareth Solly said.
“Overall material movements at Myhree are about 80 per cent complete, while more than 55 per cent of gold is still to be mined.
“We are now entering into the sweet spot and expect to see strong cashflow throughout the next two quarters. All part of our plan to produce more gold, sooner.”
Black Cat expects mining at the Boundary and Myhree open pits to be completed in October, three months ahead of schedule.
The company is also currently conducting underground drilling at the Paulsens gold operation, which poured its first gold before Christmas last year.
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26 March 2025