Category: News

Resource Capital Funds to sell Ausenco

OLIVIA THOMSON

partnership, board, change, mining

Private equity firm Resource Capital Funds (RCF) has announced the selling of Ausenco, a multinational engineering company, to three key US investment firms.

The three firms – Eldridge, Brightstar Capital Partners, and Claure Group – will acquire Ausenco for approximately $US578 million ($900 million).

Resource Capital Fund VI (RCF VI), RCF’s fund that owns Ausenco, first acquired the company in 2016 for $153.7 million.

According to RCF, Ausenco has focused on delivering copper for the energy transition and constructing four major copper concentrators while under RCF VI’s ownership.

“These include Carrapateena, representing one of the largest copper reserves in Australia, Constancia and Mina Justa in Peru and Mantoverde in Chile, still under construction, for a combined annual copper capacity of more than 400,000 tonnes,” the firm said.

“In addition to copper, Ausenco has grown capabilities in sustainability, lithium and operational performance. Ausenco now has more than 3000 employees, up almost 1600 employees since RCF privatised the business in 2016.”

The transaction is expected to close in late 2023, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Ausenco team, whose dedication and unwavering commitment have been the driving force behind its success during our ownership… This is a fantastic outcome for all parties involved, and we wish Ausenco continued success,” Resource Capital Funds managing partner James McClements said.

RCF head of private equity Martin Valdes said this transaction is a “natural step” that will mark “the next chapter in Ausenco’s journey”.

“The decision to sell Ausenco was made after careful consideration, with the belief that this transition will allow the company to further expand its reach and make an even greater impact in the growing engineering sector,” he said.

“Our relationship will continue as like-minded collaborators to deliver the necessary commodities to support the energy transition.”

Metso expands into Finland

OLIVIA THOMSON

Metso has announced an expansion of its process piloting capabilities in Finland to keep up with the needs of the battery industry.

This expansion has involved Metso modernising its pilot facility at the Metso Research Centre in Pori, Finland, with expanded capabilities for lithium hydroxide and other battery chemicals process testing.

Metso has also opened a battery materials precursor pilot plant as part of the expansion, which is now available for customer trials.

“Pilot run requests for battery minerals like lithium, nickel and cobalt have increased significantly during the last three years,” Metso director for hydrometallurgical research and development Janne Karonen said.

“Currently, we are working on several battery black mass recycling and precursor projects and have several lithium and other battery chemicals project pilots on our laboratory schedule.”

Metso said the pilot facility expansion complements its front-running piloting capabilities for minerals processing and metals refining, as well as enables minerals and battery industry customers to have end-to-end testing and having its piloting services and technology and equipment deliveries come from one supplier.

The Finland expansion ties into Metso’s 20 year experience in developing sustainable hard rock lithium soda leaching technologies.

The engineering company announced earlier in the week the opening of new manufacturing facilities in Alwar, India.

Record mineral exploration in Tasmania

KELSIE HARFORD

Mineral exploration expenditure in Tasmania has hit a new record, with the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures showing $43.1 million was spent in the 2023 financial year.

The jump marks a 31 per cent boost in mineral exploration in the state, which Tasmanian minister for resources Felix Ellis said is the highest level on record.

“The mining and mineral processing sector is a key pillar of the economy and contributes more than $2.8 billion a year in exports and supports more than 5800 jobs,” he said.

“We know the world will need the key and critical minerals that Tasmania has to help power the global shift to renewable energy and to support defence manufacturing.”

Ellis pointed to programs like the Tasmanian Government’s exploration drilling grant initiative (EDGI) and geoscience initiative as examples of its commitment to growth in the industry.

“The EDGI grants provide co-funding for greenfield targets that may lead to the discovery of Tasmania’s next new mine,” he said.

“Since the program began, there have been eight rounds released, with funding provided facilitating more than 16,000 meters of drilling.

“It is pleasing to see that the greenfield exploration investment of $5.3 million is the highest in a decade.

“The $2 million geoscience initiative is providing new data to underpin and de-risk the next generation of mineral exploration.”

Resource production is ramping up in Tasmania with a recent feasibility study between the Tasmanian Government and the Rotterdam Port Authority marking the state as a potential green hydrogen powerhouse.

The state hopes to begin exporting green hydrogen by 2030, with the study confirming conditions in the island State for production, domestic use and export are world-class.

NSW Budget puts mining in the spotlight

ALEXANDRA EASTWOOD

NSW Treasurer Matt Kean will unveil requirements which force coal companies to reserve 10 per cent of their output exclusively for domestic use.

The 2023-24 NSW Budget has been released, reflecting the Government’s commitment to the mining and resources sector.

The Budget includes $5.2 million to establish Future Jobs and Investment Authorities. This will also assist coal-producing regions to develop new industries and economic opportunities as the state pushes for renewable energy.

Geological surveying has also been included in the Budget, with $27.5 million allocated to encourage critical mineral exploration in the state. It is hoped that the data will define areas of mineral or energy potential.

A total of $142.5 million has been allocated across the Natural Resources portfolio, including $113 million over four years for mine work health and safety. Legacy mine risk reduction has been allocated $48.5 million.

NSW introduced its new Critical Minerals Strategy earlier this month to provide the framework for the critical minerals and high-tech metals mining industry while providing certainty and direction for the growing industry.

The new document will include a sharper focus on domestic manufacturing, skills and training opportunities.

“I’m excited by the opportunities created by critical minerals in NSW. The new strategy will ensure the state is able to best realise the gains of the next mining boom,” NSW Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos said.

“NSW is uniquely positioned to support global supply of critical minerals with our diverse mix of critical mineral and high-tech metal deposits and capacity to promote domestic processing and manufacturing.”

Yancoal chairman steps down

OLIVIA THOMSON

Yancoal Australia has announced that its chairman of the board Baocai Zhang has resigned.

The company cited Zhang’s hopes to devote more time to his other business engagements and positions he holds as the reason for stepping down from the role.

Zhang has worked at Yancoal since 2004. He first joined its board before the company joined the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) in 2012. He previously served as co-vice chairman and chair of the executive committee from 2013 to 2018, and then began his position as chairman in 2018.

Yancoal said that during his tenure, Zhang’s vision, ability and determination helped transform the company, such as through its acquisition of Australian mining company Coal & Allied in 2017.

“The board thanks Baocai Zhang on the contributions he made serving as a director and chairman of the company. His passion, dedication, commitment, and capabilities were invaluable in driving Yancoal’s significant growth,” Yancoal said.

Zhang will also step down as a member of Yancoal’s nomination and remuneration committee and as chairman of the strategy and development committee.

Yancoal non-executive director Gang Ru has assumed the role as chairman, beginning on September 15.

He has nearly 30 years of experience in financial and capital management, corporate organisational management and investment. Though his roles with coal mining company Shandong Energy, Ru has worked closely with Yancoal since 2015.

“The appointment of Mr Ru as the chairman is one that will benefit Yancoal and its shareholders. He will undoubtedly provide the leadership and strategic initiatives required to drive the next stage of the company’s development,” Zhang said.

Yancoal is expected to announce details of the updated composition of its board committees at a later date following board approval.

The coal miner has also celebrated 13 production operators of its Premier Coal mine who are retiring.

Yancoal chairman steps down

OLIVIA THOMSON5 days ago

Yancoal Australia has announced that its chairman of the board Baocai Zhang has resigned.

The company cited Zhang’s hopes to devote more time to his other business engagements and positions he holds as the reason for stepping down from the role.

Zhang has worked at Yancoal since 2004. He first joined its board before the company joined the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) in 2012. He previously served as co-vice chairman and chair of the executive committee from 2013 to 2018, and then began his position as chairman in 2018.

Yancoal said that during his tenure, Zhang’s vision, ability and determination helped transform the company, such as through its acquisition of Australian mining company Coal & Allied in 2017.

“The board thanks Baocai Zhang on the contributions he made serving as a director and chairman of the company. His passion, dedication, commitment, and capabilities were invaluable in driving Yancoal’s significant growth,” Yancoal said.

Zhang will also step down as a member of Yancoal’s nomination and remuneration committee and as chairman of the strategy and development committee.

Yancoal non-executive director Gang Ru has assumed the role as chairman, beginning on September 15.

He has nearly 30 years of experience in financial and capital management, corporate organisational management and investment. Though his roles with coal mining company Shandong Energy, Ru has worked closely with Yancoal since 2015.

“The appointment of Mr Ru as the chairman is one that will benefit Yancoal and its shareholders. He will undoubtedly provide the leadership and strategic initiatives required to drive the next stage of the company’s development,” Zhang said.

Yancoal is expected to announce details of the updated composition of its board committees at a later date following board approval.

The coal miner has also celebrated 13 production operators of its Premier Coal mine who are retiring.

AusIMM’s Iron Ore Conference in Perth

https://www.ausimm.com/conferences-and-events/iron-ore/

Time is running out to secure a spot at AusIMM’s Iron Ore Conference 2023, set to take place at the Perth Convention Centre from September 18–20.

Hosted by AusIMM and CSIRO, the Iron Ore Conference is a groundbreaking gathering of experts and professionals from around the world. This prestigious conference will delve into the core challenges facing the iron ore industry, offering invaluable insights and solutions.

Expect an outstanding program that explores the latest developments and addresses the challenges impacting the technical and management aspects of iron ore production. Over the course of three days, discussions will revolve around the genesis, geology, exploration, mining, and processing of iron ores and more. The conference will also emphasise the critical issue of reducing the carbon footprint in iron and steel mining, contributing to a sustainable and green future.

Keynote presenters, including Alan Bye, Christine Hass, Christiaan Heyning, Darren Matthews, Professor G.J. Nathan, Hon Bill Johnston MLA, Kerry Turnock, and Paul Zulli, are gearing up to share their expertise with conference delegates. Their presentations promise to be insightful and thought-provoking, offering fresh perspectives on the industry’s challenges and opportunities.

In addition to the knowledge-sharing sessions, the Iron Ore Conference 2023 offers ample networking opportunities where delegates can connect with like-minded professionals, expand their networks, and forge valuable partnerships.

Allkem Technical Collaboration on Lithium Potential in Ravensthorpe

NickelSearch与Allkem开启技术合作 股价跃升61%

2023-09-12 10:03:10 (AET) by Edward Zhang   733

矿产勘探公司 NickelSearch（ASX：NIS）提供了其在西澳大利亚Ravensthorpe附近的Carlingup镍硫化物项目锂潜力评估进展的最新进展。

【澳股资讯平台 – 61 Financial 9月11日讯】矿产勘探公司 NickelSearch（ASX：NIS）周二发布公告，提供了其在西澳大利亚Ravensthorpe附近的Carlingup镍硫化物项目锂潜力评估进展的最新进展。

公司指出，NickelSearch和Allkem Limited（ASX：AKE）已同意就Carlingup的锂远景开展技术合作。

通过合作，Allkem将为Carlingup审查锂相关数据，并就目标生成和优先级提供建议。

但NickelSearch警告称，这一安排还没有达到正式的锂合资企业的水平，也不能保证技术合作将在未来达成正式协议。如果技术合作的性质在未来发生变化，NickelSearch将根据持续报告义务向市场提供最新信息。

NickelSearch董事总经理Nicole Duncan评论道：“NickelSearch很高兴开始与Allkem进行技术合作，Allkem是位于Ravensthorpe的Mt catlin锂矿的所有者和运营商，距离Carlingup仅10公里。鉴于Mt Cattlin和Carlingup之间的地质情况相似，两家公司已同意共同评估我们项目的锂潜力。”

“Mt Cattlin的勘探团队正在分享其在绿地锂勘探方面的丰富技术专长，NickelSearch正在分享迄今为止完成的工作数据。这些讨论是基于合作精神的，成功将使两家公司为双方关系的进一步发展做好准备。”

Nickel Search Limited是一家矿产勘探公司，目前专注于在现有矿区勘探硫化镍矿床。此外，公司在西澳拥有在Ravensthorpe绿岩带覆盖107.4平方公里的矿权，该矿权位于南部的Yilgarn Craton边境和Forrestania – Ravensthorpe镍矿带，该矿带是极具前景的硫化镍矿床。

公司股价一年走势回顾：

text【更多NIS公告和股价走势请点击NIS个股页面】

消息来源：

公司公告Allkem Technical Collaboration on Lithium Potential

KOCH Solutions take FLSmidth

润邦股份旗下KOCH Solutions成功收购FLSmidth散料装卸及输送装备业务

润邦股份2023-09-04 20:37
润邦股份旗下KOCH Solutions成功收购FLSmidth散料装卸及输送装备业务近日，润邦股份旗下德国公司KOCH Solutions成功收购了FLSmidth的散料装卸及输送业务，该业务包括FLSmidth曾收购Sandvik Mining Systems和ThyssenKrupp Fördertechnik的散料装卸及输送业务。
KOCH（柯赫）通过该业务的收购拥有了来自FLSmidth和Mining Technologies（前TK）在码头和堆场以及各类露天矿连续开采设备的知识产权、专有技术、项目业绩和售后服务网络。同时，KOCH承继了FLSmidth在德国和澳洲的核心团队以及办公大楼、售后车间和仓库等硬件设施。

一直以来，FLSmidth的散料装卸及输送装备业务占据了全球大部分市场份额，产品遍布全球。作为业内头部企业，FLSmidth一直引领着行业技术发展，其大型斗轮式挖掘机（原ThyssenKrupp产品）更是吉尼斯纪录的保持者。
KOCH Solutions作为一家历史悠久的工业企业距今已有近80年的发展历史，在散料装卸及输送装备领域享有很高的声誉，一直以高质量的产品和优质的服务吸引着全球客户。毫无疑问，这次收购是KOCH Solutions对全球最先进的散料装卸及输送技术和市场的完美整合。FLSmidth原业务产品、技术和市场份额将帮助KOCH Solutions带来更多的资源和优势。对KOCH而言，这次收购是80年发展历史上的又一次跨越式发展，极大提升了KOCH在市场上的竞争力。该收购作为润邦股份全球化战略计划的一部分，是润邦近年来在全球化布局方面的一颗关键落子。它将极大地提升润邦股份和KOCH在全球散料装卸及输送装备业务领域的规模和行业影响力，尤其对于全球范围的矿山、堆场和码头的业务，使得KOCH的竞争力和行业地位迅速迈入全球第一梯队，从而进一步提升润邦股份的国际化水平及全球行业地位。 KOCH将继续保持良好发展势头，做好资源和技术整合，为企业创造更多商业成果和社会效益，为客户提供更好的产品和服务，为行业带来更多的创新和变革。

Boeing Lands More Jobs And Investment In Victoria

JOSH FARRELL

One of the world’s leading aerospace manufacturers continues to invest, grow and create new skilled jobs in the state, strengthening Victoria’s manufacturing expertise and capabilities.

Minister for Manufacturing Sovereignty Ben Carroll today welcomed Boeing’s growth in Victoria, with the company creating more than 200 new jobs this year alone, an increase of almost 25 per cent and bringing its workforce in the state to more than 1000.

“Boeing’s continued investment in Victoria highlights our status as Australia’s advanced manufacturing capital, with more high-skilled jobs being created in our state,” Carroll said.

These roles are supporting increased production of new commercial planes due to growing demand globally.

Based at Melbourne’s Fishermans Bend, the company has been manufacturing aircraft in the state since 1927.

The company is not only growing its workforce in the state but also encouraging more women into aviation trade roles through its Female Apprenticeship Program to increase gender diversity in traditionally dominated roles.

Boeing’s Victorian presence is one of the company’s largest outside the United States, bringing together a unique combination of research and development, engineering, and advanced manufacturing in the one location. It is where the company has produced components for the 787 Dreamliner for the past decade.

All of Boeing’s commercial airplane components produced in Victoria are exported to the company’s final assembly lines in the United States – either to Seattle, Washington or Charleston, South Carolina.

Boeing Aerostructures Australia Managing Director Mick Sorrenson spoke about why the company has chosen Victoria.

“Boeing’s enduring partnership with Australia is deeply connected to Victoria, having continuously manufactured aircraft components at our Fishermans Bend site since the 1930s,” he said.

Boeing Aerostructures Australia was awarded the Manufacturer of the Year – Large Business at the recent 2023 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards – which is supported by the Andrews Labor Government.

Victoria continues to cement its status as a destination of choice for major global firms with Hanwha, BAE Systems, Leonardo, Lockheed Martin, and Thales all establishing a significant presence here.

Through the Victorian Budget 2023/24, the Victorian Government is backing advanced manufacturers to bolster local capabilities through the $21 million Manufacturing and Industry Sovereignty Fund, as well as investing $4 million to support our defence and space sectors to secure more major contracts.

New Kalgoorlie gold projects secured

ALEXANDRA EASTWOOD

Horizon Minerals and Dundas Minerals have entered into a binding agreement to acquire the Windanya and Baden-Powell/Scotia gold projects in the Kalgoorlie region of WA.

Dundas Minerals has also made an application to acquire three prospecting licenses in its own right, contiguous to Horizon’s Banden Powell/Scotia tenements.

“The option to acquire these advanced stage gold exploration projects in the Kalgoorlie region of Western Australia is an exciting opportunity for Dundas Minerals,” Dundas Minerals managing director Shane Volk said.

“Given the competition for these projects, Dundas is pleased that Horizon viewed us as a worthy partner. We are keen to commence the first phase of exploration in coming weeks.”

The Windanya project is located approximately 50km north of Kalgoorlie, while the Powell/Scotia project is adjacent to the Goldfields Highway, about 60km north of Kalgoorlie.

The projects became available due to Horizon’s focus on advancing its Cannon, Penny’s Find and Rose Hill gold projects towards production.

“Being so near to Kalgoorlie, the Goldfields Highway, and several gold plants, the economics of advancing a gold deposit from within these project areas into production, and generating income for the company are favourable,” Volk said.

Dundas is currently finalising plans for its first phase of exploration at both projects, which will comprise soil and/or auger sampling programs covering multiple targets ranked by prospectivity.

Exploration is expected to commence in early September, and will take up to three weeks to complete.