Top 2024 AusIMM Bulletin reads
With the year coming to a close, take a look back at some of our most popular articles published over the last 12 months.
These insightful pieces cover the application of professional codes, innovation in minerals processing, rethinking mine waste, AI in resource modelling, the future workforce, and exploring best practice in mine monitoring and control.
Time to show our mettle!
The transition to renewable energy sources relies on advanced materials and the supply of metals. At the same time, there are the ongoing challenges of reducing ore grades and increasing chemical complexity of metal sources.
Peter Hayes FAusIMM, Emeritus Professor of Metallurgical Engineering at the University of Queensland, examines the response to these challenges and how Australia can continue to be a leader in the supply of metals.
“It is clear that Australia needs increased investment in metallurgical processing if we are to play our part in the global challenges we are facing. We need to support knowledge development and innovation, and develop a workforce for the future.”
Turning mine waste into value – sustainable strategies for modern mines
Charles Vuillier MAusIMM says the mining industry has an opportunity to turn what was once considered waste into a driver of economic growth and a demonstration of environmental sustainability.
“The mining industry has a unique opportunity to mitigate its environmental impact by turning waste into vast amounts of resources, contributing to a safer and more sustainable future. By rethinking waste management strategies, these valuable resources can be created.”
Can you dig it? Modifying Factors and multi-factor risk
While the JORC Code primarily relates to Mineral Resources and Reserves, it necessarily overlaps with mineral project design and evaluation. AusIMM Fellows Geoff Deans and Bruce Harvey reflect on the emerging centrality of Modifying Factors in project evaluation.
“Escalating environmental, social and governance (ESG) expectations (as Modifying Factors) in the past decade have dramatically changed the risk context for resource development projects… The ability to identify, manage and appropriately mitigate a full intersectional suite of Modifying Factors is a necessity and an important competitive capability.”
How AI can enhance your resource modelling
It’s clear that AI is quickly becoming integrated into daily life around the globe. But did you know that AI – and more specifically machine learning – has the potential to be a powerful tool for resource modelling? Min Liang MAusIMM and José González share more.
“If we can keep industry knowledge and experience at the forefront while adding cutting-edge technology like machine learning, we believe the mining sector will be able to enter into a new era of increased efficiency and accuracy.”
Introducing our 2024 Education Endowment Fund Scholarship Recipients
Every year the Education Endowment Fund (EEF) Board of Trustees award the annual EEF Scholarships, including the prestigious Sir Frank Espie/Rio Tinto Leadership Award and EEF Premium Scholarships. Read the inspiring stories of our 2024 recipients and learn more about what they hope to achieve in their careers.
“I am eager to actively pursue leadership opportunities and excited to make the most out of the professional development opportunities AusIMM and this scholarship will provide, expanding my knowledge through both academic and industrial avenues”. – Sophia Minter SAusIMM, 2024 EEF Scholarship Recipient
Pictured: Paul Espie AO HonFAusIMM (left) and Jared Osborne FAusIMM (right) with 2024 Sir Frank Espie/Rio Tinto Leadership Award recipients Francis Burt and Ashley Potter.
Mine monitoring or control (Parts 1, 2 and 3)
In this three-part series (published across 2023 and 2024), Ray Ballantyne MAusIMM looks at the difference between mine 'monitoring' and 'control', and explores how information is actioned and decisions made onsite to achieve the best possible outcomes.
“The highest ranked success factor [for successful mine control] is the calibre of control room personnel.”
Read Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3
New commodities, same process? Leveraging existing expertise to support critical minerals processing
Structural drivers of demand for critical minerals are positive over the longer term, representing a significant opportunity for the Australian mining and METS sectors. What existing expertise, and new skills, will be required to seize the moment and drive value?