Stellar Resources has successfully raised millions to advance its flagship Heemskirk Tin Project in Tasmania.
The company received commitments for approximately 409 million shares at an issue price of $0.022 per share, for a total of $9 million, per a company report.
Proceeds will be targeted towards development study costs for Heemskirk, which Stellar said is the highest-grade undeveloped tin resource in Australia and the third-highest globally.
Funds will also support due diligence on surrounding infrastructure options and exploration at the highly prospective East Renison Project. This new funding, combined with a recent $2.9 million from option exercises, brings Stellar’s total capital raised in recent months to $11.9 million.
“We are very pleased with the strong support received for this placement from both existing shareholders and new investors, enabling the board to increase the amount raised from what was originally sought,” Stellar managing director Simon Taylor said.
“The funds raised, together with recent option conversions, significantly strengthen our balance sheet and position Stellar to advance the Heemskirk Tin Project towards development, as we aim to become a global top-10 tin producer.”
According to Stellar, the strong investor interest stems from tin prices trading around $US36,000 per tonne, driven by demand from the electronics and renewable energy sectors.
XCMG’s mobile crushers are compact, enabling easy transportation from site to site. Image: XCMG 徐工的移动式破碎机结构紧凑，便于从一个地点到另一个地点的运输。图片：徐工
XCMG’s new mobile crusher range is underpinning faster, more efficient mining operations. 徐工的新型移动式破碎机系列正在为更快、更高效的采矿作业奠定基础。
When you think of mobility in the mining and construction industries, chances are your mind jumps to transport solutions, machinery relocation, or agile operations planning. 当您想到采矿和建筑行业的移动性时，您的思绪很可能会跳到运输解决方案、机械搬迁或敏捷运营规划上。
But what about crushing? 但是压碎呢？
In a sector where power and performance often come in bulky and stationary packages, XCMG is shifting the paradigm. 在动力和性能通常采用笨重且固定封装的领域， 徐工正在改变范式。
With the release of its powerful line-up of mobile crushers – XPE0810, XPE0912, XPF1214, and XPY1100 – XCMG is making it clear: might and mobility can go hand in hand. 随着其强大的移动式破碎机系列（XPE0810、XPE0912、XPF1214 和 XPY1100）的发布，徐工集团明确表示：力量和机动性可以齐头并进。
From quarries to remote mining operations, infrastructure projects to demolition sites, these crushers are built for action. 从采石场到偏远采矿作业，从基础设施项目到拆除现场，这些破碎机都是为行动而生的。
They’re fast, flexible, fuel-efficient, and formidable. But beyond the specs and steel, the crushers represent something bigger: a move towards smarter, leaner, more responsive crushing systems that adapt to the demands of modern mine sites. 它们快速、灵活、省油且强大。但除了规格和钢材之外，破碎机还代表着更大的东西：向更智能、更精简、反应更灵敏的破碎系统迈进，以适应现代矿场的需求。
Let’s break it down. 让我们来分解一下。
Mobility meets muscle 机动性与肌肉的结合
Traditional crushers demand infrastructure, pads, foundations, power sources, and logistical planning. 传统破碎机需要基础设施、垫片、基础、电源和物流规划。
The introduction of XCMG’s mobile crushers mean those limitations are a thing of the past. Mounted on robust tracks and engineered for seamless transportation, these machines are redefining what it means to be site ready. 徐工移动式破碎机的推出意味着这些限制已成为过去。这些机器安装在坚固的轨道上，专为无缝运输而设计，正在重新定义现场就绪的含义。
Whether it’s the compact and agile XPE0810, the mid-range XPE0912 workhorse, or the heavy-hitting XPF1214 and high-efficiency XPY1100, this range provides a crushing solution for every scenario. 无论是紧凑敏捷的 XPE0810、中档 XPE0912 主力，还是重磅 XPF1214 和高效 XPY1100，该系列都为各种场景提供了粉碎解决方案。
What unites them all? Their precision design, field-tested durability and a relentless pursuit of efficiency that has become a hallmark of the XCMG brand. 是什么将它们结合在一起？他们的精密设计、经过现场测试的耐用性和对效率的不懈追求已成为徐工品牌的标志。
Balancing power and precision 平衡功率和精度
When you need performance without sacrificing mobility, the XPE0810 delivers. Built for demanding workloads, this mid-size jaw crusher offers the ideal balance between power, portability, and efficiency. 当您需要性能而不牺牲移动性时，XPE0810 可以满足您的需求。这款中型颚式破碎机专为要求苛刻的工作负载而设计，在动力、便携性和效率之间实现了理想的平衡。
Engineered for tough conditions, the XPE0810 thrives on job sites where reliability and productivity are non-negotiables. From reinforced concrete to hard rock, it handles a wide range of materials with ease, making it a go-to solution for contractors who need results. 该 XPE0810 专为恶劣条件而设计，在可靠性和生产力不容谈判的工作现场蓬勃发展。从钢筋混凝土到硬岩，它可以轻松处理各种材料，使其成为需要结果的承包商的首选解决方案。
Key features include: 主要功能包括：
being compact enough for easy transportation and powerful enough for large jobs 足够紧凑，便于运输，功能强大，适合大型作业
rapid set-up and intuitive operation 快速设置和直观作
robust jaw crushing performance 强大的颚式破碎性能
suited to construction sites, recycling yards, quarry and mining operations. 适用于建筑工地、回收场、采石场和采矿作业。
The versatile workhorse 多功能主力
Step up a level to the XPE0912, a mobile jaw crusher engineered for higher output and more demanding tasks. 更上一层楼，XPE0912，这是一款移动式颚式破碎机，专为更高的产量和更苛刻的任务而设计。
With a larger feed opening and increased throughput, the XPE0912 is perfect for contractors and mining operators who need a robust, multi-purpose crusher that can adapt on the fly. 该 XPE0912 具有更大的进料口和更高的吞吐量，非常适合需要坚固耐用且可动态适应的多用途破碎机的承包商和采矿运营商。
The XPE0912 mobile jaw crusher. Image: XCMG XPE0912 移动式颚式破碎机。图片：徐工
Whether operators are breaking down blasted rock or reprocessing concrete debris, the XPE0912 keeps sites moving. 无论操作员是分解爆破的岩石还是再处理混凝土碎片，XPE0912 都能让现场保持运转。
Key features include: 主要功能包括：
a heavy-duty jaw plate design 重型钳口板设计
hydraulic adjustment for quick changeovers 液压调节，可快速转换
remote control mobility 远程控制移动性
suited to medium to large crushing volumes. 适用于中到大破碎量。
This is a machine that can easily shift from job to job without skipping a beat. The XPE0912 is rugged enough for tough conditions, and smart enough for dynamic workflows. 这是一台可以轻松地从一个工作转移到另一个工作而不会错过任何一个节拍的机器。该 XPE0912 足够坚固，可以应对恶劣的条件，并且足够智能，可以应对动态工作流程。
The heavy-hitter 重量级人物
The XPF1214 mobile impact crusher is built for productivity. With a powerful rotor and large crushing chamber, it delivers aggressive performance for high-volume operations. XPF1214 移动式反击式破碎机专为提高生产率而设计。凭借强大的转子和大型破碎室，它为大批量作业提供了积极的性能。
It’s ideally suited for limestone, concrete, asphalt, and other medium-hard materials, delivering uniform product size with exceptional shape. 它非常适合石灰石、混凝土、沥青和其他中等硬度材料，提供均匀的产品尺寸和卓越的形状。
But the XPF1214 isn’t just about brute force. It’s loaded with intelligent features that reduce downtime and boost productivity. 但 XPF1214 不仅仅是蛮力。它加载了智能功能，可减少停机时间并提高生产力。
Adjustable aprons, fast maintenance access, and dust suppression options all contribute to a machine designed for real-world performance. 可调节围裙、快速维护访问和粉尘抑制选项都有助于打造专为实际性能而设计的机器。
Key features include: 主要功能包括：
high-capacity impact crushing 大容量冲击式破碎
an advanced hydraulic opening mechanism 先进的液压开启机构
flexible feed size and output adjustments 灵活的进料尺寸和产量调整
suited to quarry, roadwork, and recycling applications. 适用于采石场、道路施工和回收应用。
Cone crusher for consistency and control 圆锥破碎机，确保一致性和控制
Rounding out the range is the XPY1100, a mobile cone crusher engineered for precision and consistency. 该系列的最后一款产品是 XPY1100，这是一款专为精度和一致性而设计的移动式圆锥破碎机。
Cone crushers have always been valued for their ability to produce high-quality aggregates, and the XPY1100 is no exception. 圆锥破碎机一直因其生产高质量骨料的能力而受到重视，XPY1100 也不例外。
With intelligent control systems, robust wear parts, and premium gradation capabilities, this model is ideal for secondary and tertiary crushing stages in mining and aggregate production. 该型号具有智能控制系统、坚固的易损件和优质的级配能力，是采矿和骨料生产中二级和三级破碎阶段的理想选择。
Key features include: 主要功能包括：
hydraulic cone technology with overload protection 带过载保护的液压锥体技术
automatic clearance adjustment 自动间隙调整
high reduction ratio and cubical product shape 高减速比和立方体产品形状
smooth integration with other XCMG crushers for multi-stage setups. 与其他徐工破碎机顺利集成，实现多级设置。
Operators choose the XPY1100 for its stability and control, while managers appreciate its uptime, output, and low operating costs. 运营商选择该 XPY1100 是因为它的稳定性和控制性，而管理人员则欣赏其正常运行时间、产量和低运营成本。
It’s a high-performance machine that brings balance and finesse to the crushing process. 它是一款高性能机器，可为破碎过程带来平衡和技巧。
Why choose XCMG mobile crushers? 为什么选择徐工移动式破碎机？
There are plenty of crushing options on the market, but here’s why XCMG’s lineup stands out. 市场上有很多粉碎选择，但这就是徐工产品线脱颖而出的原因。
True mobility: All four crushers are mounted on high-strength tracks and feature powerful travel motors, making them easy to relocate across job sites, even in rugged terrain. No waiting for transport and no wasted hours. 真正的机动性： 所有四台破碎机都安装在高强度轨道上，并配备强大的行走电机，即使在崎岖的地形中，也可以轻松地跨作业现场重新定位。无需等待运输，也无需浪费时间。
Plug-and-play simplicity: Set up is quick and intuitive, reducing downtime between deployments. Within hours, your team can be up and running, with minimal training required. 即插即用的简单性： 设置快速直观，减少部署之间的停机时间。在几个小时内，您的团队就可以启动并运行，只需最少的培训。
Reliability where it counts: XCMG’s engineering legacy means these machines are built to last. Reinforced frames, high-quality wear parts, and intelligent hydraulic systems ensure dependable performance, even under punishing workloads. 可靠性 ：徐工的工程传统意味着这些机器经久耐用。加固的框架、高质量的易损件和智能液压系统确保了可靠的性能，即使在严酷的工作量下也是如此。
Low operating costs: Efficient power systems, fuel economy, and low maintenance requirements translate to better margins and lower cost-per-tonne. These crushers are designed to crush your materials, not your bottom line. 低运营成本： 高效的动力系统、燃油经济性和低维护要求转化为更好的利润和更低的每吨成本。这些破碎机旨在破碎您的材料，而不是您的底线。
Smart integration: All models can be easily integrated into multi-stage crushing circuits or paired with XCMG’s screening and conveying equipment for complete material processing solutions. 智能集成： 所有型号都可以轻松集成到多级破碎回路中，或与徐工的筛分和输送设备配对，以获得完整的物料加工解决方案。
Today’s mine sites are fast-paced and ever-evolving, so operators need machines that can keep up. 当今的矿场节奏快、不断发展，因此操作员需要能够跟上的机器。
XCMG’s mobile crushers are loaded with features that make life easier for crews on the ground, including remote diagnostics for quick troubleshooting, user-friendly control interfaces with touchscreen displays, safety-first design with accessible maintenance points and emergency stop systems, and eco-mode options for fuel-conscious operators. 徐工的移动式破碎机具有让地面工作人员更轻松的功能，包括用于快速故障排除的远程诊断、带有触摸屏显示器的用户友好控制界面、带有无障碍维护点和紧急停止系统的安全第一设计，以及为注重燃料的操作员提供生态模式选项。
Every detail is designed to maximise uptime, optimise throughput, and minimise complexity. 每个细节都旨在最大限度地延长正常运行时间、优化吞吐量并最大限度地降低复杂性。
Real results in the field 现场的实际结果
It’s one thing to talk specs, it’s another to deliver results in high-pressure environments. 谈论规格是一回事，在高压环境中交付结果是另一回事。
Operators are reporting significant time savings thanks to fast setup and simplified mobility between crushing zones. 运营商报告说，由于快速设置和简化了破碎区之间的移动，可以节省大量时间。
In multi-stage applications, the pairing of jaw and impact crushers has proven especially effective in cutting down material handling steps and streamlining workflow. 在多级应用中，颚式破碎机和反击式破碎机的配对已被证明在减少物料搬运步骤和简化工作流程方面特别有效。
Teams have also noted reduced wear rates and smoother output gradation when switching to XCMG’s mobile systems, particularly in sites with variable feed material. The result? Better efficiency, fewer delays, and a noticeable boost in overall production performance. 团队还注意到，在切换到徐工的移动系统时，磨损率降低，输出级配更平滑，特别是在进料可变的现场。结果？效率更高，延迟更少，整体生产性能显着提高。
As global construction and mining trends evolve, so do the demands on equipment. Flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability are no longer optional – they’re expected. 随着全球建筑和采矿趋势的发展，对设备的需求也在不断变化。灵活性、效率和可持续性不再是可选的，而是人们所期望的。
With its mobile crushing range, XCMG is not just meeting these expectations – it’s setting new ones. These machines provide the performance, intelligence, and adaptability that modern mining operations require. 凭借其移动破碎范围，徐工不仅满足了这些期望，还树立了新的期望。这些机器提供现代采矿作业所需的性能、智能和适应性。
In short? XCMG is crushing it in every sense of the word. 总之？徐工集团在各个方面都碾压了它。
The Olympic Dam mine in South Australia. Source: BHP
BHP has provided an update on the progress of its Olympic Dam expansion, with a maintenance campaign to occur two years from now.
BHP chief financial officer Vanita Pant said the company remained committed to growing production in the state despite a reshuffle of spending plans.
“Our aspiration to double copper production out of copper South Australia remains unchanged,” Pant said. “What we have done is a minor re-sequencing of capital and construction to accommodate a smelter maintenance campaign in 2027.
Pant said consistency of policy would be essential to making the expansion a success and is what would give the company confidence to put billions of dollars of capital to work for the long term.
BHP chief executive Mike Henry highlighted copper’s central role in BHP’s performance and outlook.
“We’ve made so much progress in recent years, and copper today accounts for 45 per cent of the underlying profit of the company,” he said.
“South Australia has some of the best copper endowment in the world, and we think there’s still more to come. We’ve got a tremendous resource base there and strong opportunities to keep growing.”
BHP’s growth pipeline extends beyond Australia, with projects in Argentina and the United States. In Argentina, the company is part of the Vicuña joint venture, which combines the Josemaría and Filo del Sol deposits.
“Filo del Sol is one of the biggest copper discoveries globally in the last 30 years,” he said. “We expect to have a development plan out in the first quarter of next year, and we’re also working with government on the RIGI bill which, if passed, will help make that project become even more attractive.”
The RIGI scheme is an initiative by the Argentine Government designed to attract investment in industries such as mining.
The likes of Glencore and BHP are participating in the scheme, with eligible projects able to secure tax breaks and deductions, as well as a stability agreement over 30 years that cannot be repealed by future governments.
AIMEX 2025 kicks off next week in Adelaide. Register for the free event here.
Family businesses from around the globe are working together to deliver crushing equipment tailored to support Australian quarries.
Paul Kerr has spent more than 30 years in the quarry equipment business. During this time, he has visited dozens of factories, learning what makes them tick and how they build equipment for the Australian environment.
He brings this experience to his role as Onetrak’s national manager for crushing and screening. His responsibility is to liaise with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for the Australian-based family business.
One of these OEMs is Anaconda, which itself is a family business based in Northern Ireland. It specialises in designing, manufacturing, and supplying trommels, crushers, and screens for the material handling sectors.
Originally founded in 2005 as sub-contractor specialists, Anaconda was acquired by another family business – the McLanahan Corporation.
“It’s dynamic to work with three different family businesses, across three different continents,” Kerr told Quarry.
“We can get technical support from the factory – and not just from Northern Ireland. Reciprocal engineers in the United States means we have someone available across 16 hours a day.
“While they support us, we can also support them.”
Anaconda is a family business based in Northern Ireland. Image: Onetrak
The Australian quarry industry has unique demands. This is why Kerr was an ideal person to work alongside Anaconda’s design team. He said the three main issues facing Australian equipment are the heat, the dry climate, and geographical remoteness.
“We’re quite unique as a market segment, and we’re an area where Anaconda wants to make a difference,” Kerr said.
“Heat mostly affects screens. They’re hydrostatic and hydraulically driven. High temperatures can affect the longevity of seals and hoses, which can cause a loss of efficiency.
“There’s also a need to make sure the viscosity of the oil is the right level, and heat plays a major role. It’s important to make sure that every component is appropriate for the hot weather and high ultraviolet radiation.”
A dry climate means dust ingress can become a major problem. If dust manages to get into bearings and seals, it can significantly reduce the reliability of a machine. Placement of the bearings can also reduce the risks of dust ingress. To address these issues, Kerr visited the Anaconda factory and spent three days working with the company’s engineers. During this time, he reviewed the Anaconda machinery bit by bit, consulting with the Northern Ireland team to make sure the products would be fit for Australian conditions.
Kerr had visited the company’s factory a decade ago and said the McLanahan Corporation’s investment had enhanced it.
“I’ve been to all of the major manufacturing facilities for this type of equipment in Northern Ireland, and Anaconda’s paint facility is the best I have seen,” he said.
“The software they use is on the cutting edge. With McLanahan’s help, they have been able to incorporate the latest technology, from hydraulic flow to finite element analysis.
“It is all used to make sure each machine meets the company’s standards, using the right materials.”
Onetrak is more than just the official Australian dealer for Anaconda. It is also part of the company’s consulting team for developing new products.
Kerr was impressed at how quickly his feedback was taken on board. Where it might have taken months for these changes to be made in another manufacturer’s process, Anaconda was able to update the design almost immediately.
“One of the most important things about Anaconda is its versatility. They’ve been around for a decade and have been improving their designs from day one,” Kerr said.
“They’ve designed machines that offer good value for money. The whole design concept is to create a dependable workhorse and have been able to make them even more reliable for the Australian market.”
This reliability is vital for Australian quarries. Not only is Northern Ireland on the other side of the world, but often quarries cannot afford to wait for replacement parts if a machine breaks down.
Anaconda was acquired by the McLanahan Corporation. Image: Onetrak
To solve this problem, Onetrak has eight branches that are spread across the country. Each branch carries important components and wear parts for the crushing and screening sector. In addition, a full fleet of trucks lets the company’s teams support quarries around Australia.
Its distribution centre in Melbourne supports these branches, and its partnerships in Asia, North America, and Europe help keep the stock of spare parts high.
Kerr said if anything needs to be done quickly, each branch has teams of specialists that can move quickly for emergency breakdowns.
“We’re continuing to expand,” he said. “We’re looking at opening up another office this year.”
“We’re also excited to celebrate a major milestone. This year, we will have delivered more than 500 Anaconda machines into Australia over the past decade.”
Nanchang Mineral Systems Co. (NMS) is offering its long-standing expertise to the crushing and screening sector.
Established in 1970, Nanchang Mineral Systems Co. (NMS) has been focusing on crushing and screening sectors for more than 50 years. Integrating research and development, manufacturing, production and operation, NMS can provide turnkey project services in mining, quarrying and recycling industries.
The company recently delivered a complete set of flip-flow screeners:
• Extremely high vibration intensity, effective and efficient for screening sticky and wet materials
• Polyurethane screen media being used, with high opening rate and long service life
• When tensioned and loosened on the screen, the materials bonded on the screen is easy to go through
• Frequency adjustable to suit various working conditions
• High reliability of machines
• Low energy consumption and impact on the environment
NMS will attend AIMEX in this September in Adelaide. To book a meeting with its engineers, call 0401 459 289.
BHP has partnered with Chinese heavy machinery manufacturer XCMG for the delivery of mining fleet solutions across its global operations.
Under the global framework agreement, BHP and XCMG will co-develop solutions that will set new global standards for safety, efficiency, and sustainability for the mining industry.
This includes pathways for joint research and development of mining equipment, life cycle management strategies, alignment on emerging technology readiness, and the location of support service networks.
The agreement will combine XCMG’s large-scale mining machinery capabilities with BHP’s vast operational expertise. Both companies have committed to:
advancing joint research and development programs for next-generation mining equipment
establishing robust frameworks for life cycle asset management
building adaptable, localised support systems to ensure reliable equipment uptime
collaborating on the creation of new industry standards and best practices
accelerating global initiatives to decarbonise mining operations.
“This partnership with XCMG reflects BHP’s approach to working closely with strategic suppliers to shape the future of mining technology,” BHP Group procurement officer Rashpal Bhatti said.
“By combining our operational insight with XCMG’s innovation capability, we’re supporting the development of safer, more sustainable fleet solutions. It’s a strong step towards reducing emissions across our operations.”
The agreement was signed on June 10 at XCMG’s global headquarters in Xuzhou, China. XCMG said the partnership with BHP will allow both companies to swiftly adapt to evolving global expectations around environmental impact and digital transformation.
“As a global supplier of intelligent and green mine construction solutions, XCMG is proud to be empowering global mine operators,” XCMG chairman Yang Dongsheng said.
“Our engineering technology leadership will support the sustainable development of green mines alongside BHP. Together, we will set a new example of global mining cooperation.”
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Metso has broken ground at its new service centre in Prince George, British Columbia, bolstering the company’s ability to best serve the emerging Canadian mining region.
Originally announced in September 2024, the centre will service mining equipment used from pit to port, including filters, flotation cells, grinding mills, crushers, screens, pumps, apron feeders, slurry handling, thickeners, loading and hauling solutions, and chute lining solutions.
It will also possess warehousing capabilities for spare and wear parts while offering on-site inspections that are OEM (original equipment manufacturer) certified, turnkey service solutions, and off-site repairs.
“The investment decision, announced in September 2024, was very well received by our customers,” Metso vice president Canada sales and service Justin Ayotte said.
“Metso’s strengthened local presencewill enable faster repairs, shorter turnaround times, and increased sustainability by reducing transportation distances. We’re grateful for our customers’ trust, and we remain committed to becoming the preferred service provider in the industry.”
The service centre is expected to be fully operational by early 2026, creating jobs for skilled personnel such as service engineers and technical experts.
The service facility in British Columbia follows Metso celebrating the one-year anniversary of its service centre in Karratha, Western Australia, opening. The Karratha centre is the largest Metso service centre globally.
Metso is further increasing its global footprint by establishing a Metso training centre in Arizona, US, a repair centre expansion in Chile, and the construction of a new service centre in Peru.
The company is also increasing the repair shop area at its Arizonian service centre by nearly 60 per cent, which is expected to be completed in 2026.
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The Northern Territory Government is supporting resource development at one of Australia’s most remote gold mines, delivering jobs, investment and royalties for the community.
The Tanami gold mine, owned by Newmont, is expected to produce approximately 380,000 ounces (oz) of gold in 2025. With gold prices soaring, this level of production is set to deliver millions in royalty revenue to the Northern Territory economy.
Tanami has been producing gold since the early 1980s and has held the title of the world’s largest gold producer since 2002.
“The Tanami mine is a powerhouse of gold production and a major economic driver for the Territory,” NT Mining and Energy Minister Gerard Maley said.
“With expansion works well underway and record commodity prices, this project represents long-term jobs, royalties and investment for the Territory, exactly what our government is focused on delivering in our year of action, certainty and security.
“Our mining sector continues to lead the way in rebuilding the Territory economy, and the Tanami operation stands as proof of the opportunities that exist when government and industry work together.”
Maley visited the Tanami development in June, which is located approximately 550km northwest of Alice Springs.
Maley travelled 1.3km underground to inspect the mine’s operations, including a new ore crusher and the key Tanami expansion 2 project.
The Tanami expansion 2 project is expected to increase the operation’s average annual gold production by approximately 150,000–200,000oz per year to 600,000oz per year for the first five years.
It is also expected to reduce operating costs by approximately 10 per cent, significantly enhance the mine’s production capabilities and extend its operational life well beyond 2040, supporting around 1800 jobs.
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Copper concentrator at the Oyu Tolgoi mine (Image: Rio Tinto)/
Rio Tinto will commence work under a revised mine plan at the Oyu Tolgoi copper-gold operation in Mongolia, with the mine’s board approving a new approach.
Oyu Tolgoi is a 66:34 joint venture (JV) between Rio Tinto and the Mongolian Government, with works having progressed in the Entrée Resources JV area while licence transfer discussions between Entrée Resources and the Mongolian Government continue.
Oyu Tolgoi, a world-class copper-gold deposit, remains on track for its long-term ramp-up. Rio Tinto has reaffirmed its 2025 copper production guidance of 780,000 to 850,000 tonnes (t), planning to ramp up production from panel 0 and expects to add panel 2 in 2026.
Under the original mine plan, panel 1 – which includes the Entrée JV area – was scheduled to contribute to production from 2027. However, that timeline is now subject to the resolution of the licensing matters.
“Transferring the licences for the Entrée joint venture area will maximise the value Oyu Tolgoi delivers for all parties, and we are continuing to work with the Government of Mongolia and Entrée Resources towards this outcome,” Rio Tinto copper chief executive Katie Jackson said.
“Our understanding of the ore body is growing as production and development progresses, further increasing our confidence and flexibility.
“With lateral development work only just beginning in panel 1, this is the right time to pivot and bring forward development in panel 2 south to maintain our options.”
While development in the Entrée area is paused, limited activity will continue in other parts of panel 1. Resources are being redeployed to bring forward work in panel 2 south, which lies outside the JV area.
From 2028 to 2036, Oyu Tolgoi is expected to produce an average of around 500,000t of copper per year, with flexibility to initiate production from either panel 1 or panel 2 south depending on the timing of licence transfers.
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The Western Range operation in WA. Image: Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto has officially opened its Western Range operation in Western Australia, joining the major miner’s integrated network of 17 iron ore mines, four independent port terminals, a rail network spanning nearly 2000km and related infrastructure.
A 54:46 joint venture between Rio Tinto and Baowu, Western Range has the capacity to produce up to 25 million tonnes of iron ore per annum and can sustain the existing Paraburdoo mining hub for up to 20 years.
Western Range saw the construction of a primary crusher and 18km conveyor system connecting to the existing Paraburdoo processing plant, which currently has more than 880 residential and FIFO (fly in, fly out) employees.
The project cost $US2 billion and was completed on time and on budget, following first ore being processed in late March.
“Opening Western Range is an important step in Rio Tinto’s extension plans in the Pilbara and ensures the longevity of one of our oldest mining hubs, Paraburdoo, which began operating in 1972,” Rio Tinto chief executive officer (CEO) Jakob Stausholm said.
“I’m particularly proud of the work we’ve done with the Yinhawangka People to develop Western Range and we’ll continue to work closely together.
“Partnering with Baowu ensures our biggest customer directly benefits with a consistent, dedicated supply of Rio Tinto’s world leading Pilbara Blend iron ore.”
To celebrate the milestone, several representatives attended the Western Range mine site for its official opening.
“The opening of Western Range is a significant achievement, and its importance to Western Australia’s economy cannot be overstated,” Cook said.
“My government will continue to back in our resources industry, which is creating quality jobs for Western Australians while helping us maintain the standard of life we all enjoy.”
King echoed similar sentiments.
“The opening of Western Range is fantastic news for the Pilbara, for Western Australians, for Traditional Owners and for the nation,” King said.
“The Pilbara is the engine room of the nation’s economy. Projects like Western Range will keep that engine running for future generations of Australians.”
Western Range is Rio Tinto’s first project to feature a co-designed social, cultural and heritage management plan (SCHMP) with the Yinhawangka Traditional Owners, which was originally announced in 2022.
“For Yinhawangka People, Country is everything – it holds our spirit, our law, and our deep responsibility to protect what was passed down to us,” Hayden said.
“The opening of the Western Range mine represents a shift in how our heritage is being recognised and respected. We acknowledge the work Rio Tinto has done to change how they engage with us, and the steps they’ve taken to build a stronger, more honest partnership.
“This is a meaningful beginning – and we stand ready to walk forward together.”
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