Uncategorized Archives

Do you work in the Drill & Blame department?

Blog, News, UncategorizedJune 16, 2025

For so many drill and blast professionals, its not the "Drill & Blast" department but rather the "Drill & Blame" department. Where "no news is good news". If there is poor dig or other issues you have half the minesite pointing fingers and making noise. When the blast works well its crickets, while patting…

What does good D&B look like?

Blog, News, UncategorizedJune 9, 2025

It’s a question I keep coming back to because, in my view, it’s the critical piece preventing many sites from achieving consistent D&B success. We’ve got access to better data, better tech, and more available training than ever. But in many operations, blast outcomes aren't improving. So why is that? At last week’s ISEE…

MEC to Exhibit at Underground Operators Conference 2025

News, UncategorizedMarch 20, 2025

MEC is gearing up for an exciting event as we exhibit at the Underground Operators Conference 2025, happening April 7-9 at the Adelaide Convention Centre! This premier industry event, hosted by AusIMM, will bring together over 1,500 underground mining professionals to explore the latest trends, innovations, and challenges shaping the sector. Representing MEC…

MEC is Proud to be an AMEC Member Driving the Future of Mining and Exploration

News, UncategorizedFebruary 7, 2025

The mining and exploration industry is built on collaboration, innovation, and advocacy. At MEC, we believe that being part of a strong, united industry body is essential for driving progress. That’s why we are proud members of the Australian Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC)—an organisation dedicated to supporting and advancing the sector. The power of…

Contracting and variations

UncategorizedNovember 8, 2017

Many years ago, when I was a young engineer working for a contract mining company at a large surface mine, a good friend (working for the client at the same operation) lamented the way contractors issue variations. From memory, I think he wanted to borrow a dozer for a few hours, and the contract didn’t provide for wet (operator included) hire.