Last Friday our East Coast General Manager, Virginia du Plessis attended the North West Queensland Regional Mining Symposium in Mount Isa, where she had the honour of serving as one of the judges for the technical presentations.
Below, Virginia shares her insights and reflections from this event, highlighting both the cutting-edge advancements in mining and the rich history that has shaped the industry.
A Showcase of Technical Excellence
The symposium brought together some of the brightest minds in the industry, offering a platform for technical presentations that showcased the latest advancements in mining technology. Among the standout presentations was one from the Dugald River Geotech team at MMG Limited. Their discussion on innovative core analysis techniques for measuring in-situ stress captured the attention of many. This approach not only provides more accurate data but also helps in making informed decisions that can significantly impact project outcomes.
Another noteworthy presentation came from Orica and 29Metals, who shared their success with the BlastIQ application in underground operations at Golden Grove. This application is proving to be a game-changer in the field, offering precision and efficiency in blasting processes. It was exciting to learn about the future possibilities this technology could unlock, paving the way for more sustainable and effective mining operations.
Geological Insights and Emerging Opportunities
The symposium also provided an opportunity to delve into the geological intricacies of some of Australia’s most promising deposits. A geological update on the Maronan Metals deposit offered valuable insights into the potential of this resource. Understanding the geology of a deposit is crucial for any mining operation, as it directly influences extraction methods, processing techniques, and overall project viability.
Honouring the Legacy of Mount Isa Mines
While the symposium was rich in technical knowledge and future-focused discussions, it also offered a moment to reflect on the legacy of the industry. One of the highlights of the day was the presentation by Barry Merrick, who shared an archive photo collection from the early years of Mount Isa Mines. These images, depicting everything from glory hole miners to lead casting in t-shirts, provided a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Mount Isa Mines, with over 100 years of production history, stands as a testament to the resilience and innovation of the mining industry. Barry’s presentation reminded us of how far the industry has come—from the rudimentary tools and methods of the past to the highly sophisticated technologies we employ today. It’s a legacy that inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in mining.
