FMG given approval for Cloudbreak expansion (0) February 9, 2012 Fortescue Metals Group has been given conditional approval to go ahead with its $247 million expansion of the Cloudbreak mine in the Pilbara.
AWU calls for action on Alcoa review (0) February 9, 2012 The Australian Workers’ Union has called for State and Federal Government action following Alcoa’s announcement that it is “reviewing the future viability” of its Point Henry smelter.
Thiess wins BMA contract (0) February 9, 2012 Thiess has won a $180 million contract with BMA for earthworks at the Caval Ridge mine.
Thiess wins gas contract (0) February 9, 2012 Thiess has won a $325 million contract to build gas processing facilities for the Queensland Curtis Island LNG project.
FMG looks beyond iron ore in South Australia (0) February 8, 2012 Fortescue Metals Group is exploring South Australia for copper, gold, and uranium in an effort to diversify beyond its Pilbara iron ore business.
BHP Billiton posts strong first half profit (0) February 8, 2012 BHP Billiton has posted a first half profit of $9.2 billion, one of the biggest in Australia’s history but short of analyst’s predictions and the record it set last year.
Margaret River coal mine vetoed (0) February 8, 2012 LD Operations proposed coal project in the Margaret River has been rejected by WA environment minister Bill Marmion.
Drill rig battle drags on (0) February 8, 2012 The fight over the GT3000 drill rig has heated up as Strange Investments seeks a court order to take possession of the rig.
Whitehaven Coal restarts mining (0) February 8, 2012 Whitehaven Coal has recommenced operations after heavy rains halted mining in the Gunnedah Basin.
Rio Tinto sees board changes (0) February 8, 2012 Rio Tinto has appointed John Varley as a senior independent director to its board.
Mining jobs boost labour market (1) February 7, 2012 Mining jobs in resources states have helped boost job advertisements on the internet and in newspapers to their highest level in almost two years.
Mystery buyer for FMG (0) February 7, 2012 Shares in Pilbara iron ore miner Fortescue Metals jumped yesterday amid speculation diversified commodity trader Noble Group had bought a stake in the company.
China bans Vale mega-ships (0) February 7, 2012 The Chinese Government has effectively banned Vale’s $8 billion mega-ships from using its ports, citing safety concerns.
Glencore and Xstrata close to inking merger (0) February 7, 2012 The talks between Glencore and Xstrata over their proposed $88 billion merger have escalated, with Glencore expected to pay an eight per cent premium to seal the deal.
South Africa vetos new mining tax, nationalisation (0) February 7, 2012 South Africa’s Government will not bring in new mining taxes, and has vetoed a policy of nationalisation of the mining industry.
Underground fire forces miners into rescue chambers (0) February 6, 2012 About 30 miners were forced into rescue chambers after an underground fire broke out in the Fosterville Gold Mine in central Victoria on the weekend.
Zimbabwe mining fees up 5,000 per cent (0) February 6, 2012 The Zimbabwe Government has raised mining and licence fees by between 500 and 5,000 per cent, according to state-controlled local media the Sunday Mail.
WA to make $1 billion native title deal (0) February 6, 2012 The Western Australian Government says it is hoping to this year settle a long running native title claim over Perth in a $1 billion package involving large transfers of land.
Mine automation won’t kill jobs: report (0) February 6, 2012 New advancements in mining technology, such as autonomous vehicles, look set to spur growth in the mining industry rather than kill jobs, according to a report by BAEconomics.
Downer win Karara iron ore contract (0) February 6, 2012 Gindalbie Metals has awarded Downer EDI Mining the contract to mine its Karara iron ore project.
Orica resumes ammonia plant restart (0) February 6, 2012 Orica has resumed the restart of its Kooragang Island ammonia plant after repairing a faulty compressor.
Barnett tells FMG and Aquila to bury differences (0) February 3, 2012 WA Premier Colin Barnett has told Fortescue Metals Group and Aquila Resources to bury their differences and work together to from a new port in WA.
Glencore and Xstrata looking at $82 billion merger (0) February 3, 2012 Xstrata has confirmed it is in talks with Glencore International to form a monster $US82 billion merger company to rival BHP Billiton.
Outrage over Lynas approval (0) February 3, 2012 One of the most vocal opponents to Lynas Corporation’s plans in Malaysia says it is “outraged and appalled” by the Government’s decision to grant Lynas a temporary operating licence.
Panoramic to acquire Magma (0) February 3, 2012 Panoramic Resources has announced its intention to acquire Magma Metals.
Coretrack to sue Strange over drill rig IP fight (0) February 3, 2012 Coretrack has begun legal action against Strange Investments over the IP of the GT3000 drill rig, and has been forced to downsizing of its Globe Drill subsidiary.
BHP sheds 155 nickel workers (0) February 2, 2012 A falling nickel price and high Australian dollar have prompted BHP Billiton to sack 155 workers from its NickelWest operations.
Booming coal and coal seam gas industry creating thousands of jobs (0) February 2, 2012 Queensland’s expanding coal and coal seam gas industry has created 5000 new jobs in Gladstone and will add another 2,000 this year, according to the Gladstone Economic and Industry Development ...
Norman Moore to retire (0) February 2, 2012 Western Australian mines minister Norman has announced his retirement.
BHP approves Port Hedland harbour funding (0) February 2, 2012 BHP Billiton has approved nearly $1 billion in funding for the construction of its iron ore outer harbour facility in Port Hedland.
Rio buys BHP interest in Richard Bay (0) February 2, 2012 Rio Tinto has acquired BHP Billiton’s stake in Richard Bay Minerals (RBM), doubling its holding.
WA DMP to probe Pilbara mine injury (0) February 1, 2012 The West Australian Department of Mines and Petroleum is investigating an incident which left one man injured last month.
QR dismisses Palmer’s claims of conspiracy (0) February 1, 2012 QR National has rejected Clive Palmer’s claims it breached confidentiality agreements with the miner after it was granted significant project status.
Dead bodies put off Pike River buyers (0) January 31, 2012 While a number of miners are interested in acquiring New Zealand’s Pike River Coal mine, the possibility of strict safety measures and recovering dead miners has put off some investors.
SA Government to appeal mining ban (0) January 31, 2012 The South Australian Government has applied to the High Court to appeal a judgment banning Argonaut Resources from operating on land contested to be an Aboriginal heritage site.
Palmer’s China First to sue QR National for billions (0) January 31, 2012 Clive Palmer’s China First has launched an $8 billion lawsuit against QR for alleged breaches of confidentiality and misleading conduct.
Miners in hot water over discharges (0) January 31, 2012 The Department of Environment and Resource Management is investigating two alleged mine water discharges
WA split over Margaret River coal proposals (0) January 31, 2012 West Australian mining minister Norman Moore is facing a split within his party as he rejects proposals to prevent coal mining in the Margaret River region.
Monadelphous wins Rio water contracts (0) January 31, 2012 Monadelphous has won contracts for Rio Tinto’s water supply system in the Pilbara, as well as work with Chevron Australia.
Aussie miner’s licence revoked following violent protests (0) January 30, 2012 The Indonesian Government has revoked the exploration licence of the partner of Arc Exploration following violent protests by locals that have left two people dead.
CME pushing for change in WA mining approvals (0) January 30, 2012 The Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA is lobbying the WA Government to change its handling of environmental approvals for the mining industry.
Mining machinery imports dropping (0) January 30, 2012 Australia’s mining machinery imports have experienced their biggest fall since the global financial crisis, according to one of the nation’s largest freight carriers.
Cracked coal ship heads to Brisbane (0) January 30, 2012 A damaged ship carrying close to 70 000 tonnes of coal is being moved from the Great Barrier Reef to Brisbane.
Mothballed coal mine to restart (28) January 30, 2012 Crusader Coal will restart Solid Energy’s former Terrace mine in New Zealand.
Worker shortage hurting Whitehaven (0) January 27, 2012 Whitehaven Coal says a difficulty in finding qualified staff is slowing production, along with adverse weather conditions and a shortage of explosives due to problems at Orica.
Atlas Iron snaps up jobless miners (0) January 27, 2012 Atlas Iron has offered new jobs to the 70 miners soon to lose work at the closing Wodgina tantalum mine.
Caterpillar posts record earnings (0) January 27, 2012 Mining equipment maker Caterpillar has exceeded market expectations and posted record earnings for its fourth quarter.
ACCC grants Virgin Skywest alliance approval (0) January 27, 2012 The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted interim approval to an alliance between Virgin and Skywest.
Griffin coal negotiations fail (0) January 27, 2012 The latest round of negotiations at Lanco’s Griffin coal mine have failed.
NSW and India improve coal ties (0) January 27, 2012 The ties between NSW and India have increased on the back of demand for coking coal.
Lynas secures rare earth funding [updated] (0) January 27, 2012 Lynas Corporation has secured an additional $US225 million in funding to cover the rising costs over its rare earths facility in Malaysia.
Australian Mining will be away Australia Day (0) January 25, 2012 We will be away Australia Day, but don’t worry; we’ll be back on Friday to bring you all the latest mining news.
Australian mines not at acceptable standard: Peabody (0) January 25, 2012 Peabody Energy has warned its global coal output is unlikely to change this year because the recently acquired Macarthur Coal mines are not up to industry standard.
Safe lead levels may be halved (5) January 25, 2012 The national guideline for safe lead levels may soon be cut in half.
Mining industry welcomes WA Sunday trading (0) January 25, 2012 The mining industry has welcomed new bi-partisan political support for Sunday trading in Western Australia, and says the move will make it easier to attract workers.
Strikes threaten BHP coal in Bowen Basin, Illawarra (0) January 25, 2012 Industrial action by the CFMEU is threatening to shut down BHP Billiton’s Port Kembla Coal Terminal as its Bowen Basin coal mines face a similar predicament.
Rio acquires majority of Ivanhoe (0) January 25, 2012 Rio Tinto has acquired a majority stake in Ivanhoe Mines, taking its share to just over half the company.
WA Labor softens stance on uranium mining (0) January 24, 2012 New West Australian Labor leader Mark McGowan has announced a major policy shift on uranium mining in an effort to boost the party’s poor polling numbers.
Worker looks for compensation after lightning strike (0) January 24, 2012 A Bunbury man is fighting for workers compensation after claiming he was struck by lightning while working for mining contractor NRW Holdings.
Government approves Centennial Coal expansions (0) January 24, 2012 The NSW Government has approved the expansion of Centennial Coal’s Myuna coalmine despite concerns from environmental groups about its impact on Lake Macquarie.
Fears for Great Barrier Reef over Rio Tinto mine expansion (0) January 24, 2012 Federal Environment Minister Tony Burke has reopened consideration of Rio Tinto’s $1.4 billion South of Embley bauxite mine expansion following concern over its environmental impact.
Mining can revitalise NSW, Minerals Council says (0) January 24, 2012 The mining industry can help push NSW to the top of the country’s economic table after it rated last for growth, the NSW Minerals Council says.
Industrea wins coal mine contract (0) January 24, 2012 Industrea has renewed its mining contract at the Baralaba South mine in the Bowen Basin.
EPA gives BHP Port Hedland development approval (0) January 24, 2012 The West Australian EPA has given conditional approval to BHP Billiton’s plans for an outer harbour development at Port Hedland.
WDS renews Xstrata coal Tahmoor contract (0) January 24, 2012 WDS Ltd’s mining division has renewed its existing contract for the installation of secondary support at Xstrata’s Tahmoor coal mine.
Mines face fight to survive (0) January 23, 2012 Coal mines in Queensland and New South Wales are facing a fight to exist, with Greens MPs and local environmentalists campaigning to close them down.
Rinehart family feud to be made public (0) January 23, 2012 While the details of her family trust battle would be embarrassing, iron ore heiress Gina Rinehart has no right to suppress them, the NSW Court of Appeal has ruled.
Three-in-four miners obese or overweight (0) January 23, 2012 According to health experts three-in-four workers in the mining industry are overweight, with Queensland mining town Mount Isa a chronic disease hotspot.
FLSmidth to acquire Ludowici (16) January 23, 2012 FLSmidth has entered into an agreement to fully acquire Ludowici.
Economy needs mining: Analysts (0) January 23, 2012 A series of financial reports has underlined the importance of mining to the national economy, with experts highlighting resources as the key to growth in most states.
Coal miner injured at Grasstree (0) January 23, 2012 An underground coal miner was airlifted to hospital after injuring himself this morning.
Director training launched for women (0) January 23, 2012 Women on Boards have launched professional development workshops for women in rural, regional, and remote Australia.
Griffin coal unions talks continue this week (0) January 23, 2012 Negotiations at Lanco’s Griffin coal mine will continue this week as the company continues to push for an extra half hour during shift work.
Vale mega-ships arrive in China (0) January 20, 2012 Vale has completed the first delivery of its new super-size carriers to China, the latest move by the Brazilian miner to ramp up pressure on its Australian rivals.
CMEWA focused on productivity in pre-budget submission (0) January 20, 2012 The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of West Australian has highlighted increased productivity as the central theme in its pre-budget submission.
WA Government commits to Esperance port expansion (0) January 20, 2012 The WA Government’s commitment to upgrading Esperance Port has been welcomed by industry as an important step in developing mining in the state’s south.
Griffin Coal explosion charges laid (0) January 20, 2012 Charges have been laid against Lanco Resources’ subsidiaries over a char plant explosion in 2008.
QRC launches election agenda (0) January 20, 2012 The Queensland Resources Council has released its 2012 state election policy agenda.
Push to block Wyong coal mine (0) January 20, 2012 A new proposal from Wallarah 2 Coal is unlikely to go ahead as tougher laws are brought into place.
Cracked coal ship on the Barrier Reef (0) January 19, 2012 A ship near the Great Barrier Reef carrying more than 67 000 tonnes of coal has been discovered to have a cracked hull.
Spanish and African workers keen on mining jobs (1) January 19, 2012 While ten workers from Spain have joined Xstrata Zinc, members of the African community in Darwin say they fear they are being overlooked for mining jobs.
Mt Weld upgrades and positive stock analysis boost Lynas (0) January 19, 2012 Lynas Corporation has significantly increased its rare earths deposit at the Mount Weld project in WA, and analysts remain confident the miner is performing well.
Meth use on the rise in mining camps (0) January 19, 2012 A mine site drug tester says methamphetamine, commonly known as ice, is starting to make its way to mining camps around Australia.
Antimony miner fined (0) January 19, 2012 Anchor Resources has been fined for unsatisfactory rehabilitation of its antimony drill sites.
Western Areas looks to expand in WA (0) January 19, 2012 Western Areas says it is aiming ramp up production in WA to become Australia’s second largest nickel miner.
Christmas Island phosphate miner to resume exports (0) January 19, 2012 Phosphate Resources has announced it will resume shipping bulk phosphate after the dramatic destruction of a cargo ship at the island’s port.
Gov staff cuts blamed for FIFO camp delays (0) January 19, 2012 A number of government staff cuts are reportedly the cause behind the approvals delay for a workers camp at Blackwater, Queensland.
BHP Billiton posts iron ore record (0) January 18, 2012 BHP Billiton has announced a record 22 per cent jump in iron ore production for the December quarter, fuelled by its Pilbara expansions.
Attorney General to appeal mining ban (0) January 18, 2012 South Australia’s Attorney General John Rau is appealing a decision by the state’s Supreme Court to block development of an exploration lease held by Argonaut Resources.
Mine towns named investment hot spots (0) January 18, 2012 Property prices in Western Australia’s mining regions are tipped to keep rising with the resources boom fuelling demand for regional housing, analysts say.
Miners deny overlooking Aussie manufacturers (0) January 18, 2012 The Federal Government says it will go to the World Trade Organisation if it confirms reports miners are overlooking local manufacturers to supply their projects.
Rio breaks iron ore records (0) January 18, 2012 Rio Tinto has announced high levels for iron ore production and shipments for 2011, according to CEO Tom Albanese.
Greens to hit Hunter coal mines (0) January 18, 2012 Two members of the Greens are hitting the Hunter Valley on a ‘coal fact finding tour’.
Miners warned of energy drink dangers (0) January 17, 2012 New research finding an increase in reports of caffeine poisoning has reinforced the need to ensure mine workers are aware of the risk of using artificial methods to fight fatigue.
Argonaut slams SA mining regulation (0) January 17, 2012 Junior explorer Argonaut Resources has criticised South Australia’s mining and native title regulation, accusing it of wasting the miner’s time and money.
RCR win BHP power generation contract (0) January 17, 2012 Engineering firm RCR Tomlinson has won the power generation works contract for BHP Billiton’s Yarnima power station in Newman, Western Australia.
New China system hopes to break iron ore monopoly (0) January 17, 2012 China has launched a rival online iron ore trading platform it hopes will allow it to weaken the monopoly of Rio Tinto and BHP Billiton.
Atlas Iron flags need for 1,000 mining jobs (0) January 17, 2012 Atlas Iron chief executive David Flanagan says the Pilbara iron ore miner might need an extra 1,000 workers within three years to feed its expansion projects.
Fortescue increases North Star resource; mulls JV (0) January 17, 2012 Fortescue Metals has announced a massive 72% resource increase at its North Star magnetite deposit as it considers joint ventures on the project.
Mining complaints down in the Hunter Valley (0) January 17, 2012 The number of mining complaints received by the Department of Planning and Infrastructure dropped by nearly 60% in December, compared to the previous month.
Orica unveils new plant plans (0) January 17, 2012 Orica has unveiled plans to build a new ammonium facility at Denman, in the Hunter Valley.
Newcrest to work with Fiji dictator (0) January 16, 2012 Newcrest Mining will now work directly with Fiji military dictator Frank Bainimarama after he seized responsibility for the Namosi copper and gold project.
Tourist areas “falling behind” mining towns (0) January 16, 2012 A new survey of tourist accommodation shows rooms in some mining communities are close to full while regional tourist towns are suffering.
Mount Isa late on FIFO submission (0) January 16, 2012 The Mount Isa Chamber of Commerce is working on a late submission into the Federal Government’s fly-in-fly-out inquiry after it missed the deadline.
Ausenco signs Lumwana contract (0) January 16, 2012 Ausenco has signed a contract to manage the expansion of Barrick Gold’s Lumwana copper project.
New gas ignition at Kooragang (0) January 16, 2012 Hydrogen gas has again ignited at Kooragang Island this weekend following electrical storms.
BMA union talks move forward (0) January 16, 2012 The ongoing battle between the CFMEU and the BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) has taken a step forward after talks last week.
QLD Council passes mining ban (0) January 16, 2012 The Somerset Council has passed a moratorium on all exploration, mining, and coal seam gas activities in the Queensland region.
Nine coal seam gas protestors arrested (0) January 13, 2012 Police have arrested nine anti-coal seam gas protestors obstructing Arrow Energy exploratory drilling on a Queensland property this morning.
Australian Mining weekly wrap [video] (0) January 13, 2012 The Australian Mining weekly wrap is back – keeping you up to date with the happenings in the industry.
Bitter union fights are hurting miners: AMMA (0) January 13, 2012 Bitter union negotiations are stalling big resources projects and threatening investor confidence, according to the Australian Mines and Metals Association.
Perth junior facing ASIC and ASX investigations (0) January 13, 2012 Both the ASX and Australian Securities and Investments Commission are investigating junior explorer Paynes Find gold and its colourful chief executive Peter Salter.
New drug banned on Bowen Basin mine (0) January 13, 2012 The body-building supplement Jack3d, which contains a synthetic stimulant, has been banned at a Bowen Basin mine following reports workers were using it to stay awake.
Norsk Hydro cuts smelter jobs again (0) January 13, 2012 Global aluminum supplier Norsk Hydro yesterday announced plans to cut the capacity of its Australian New South Wales-based Kurri Kurri smelter by 33 percent citing low metal prices as the ...
Miner injured in rock fall (0) January 13, 2012 A miner has been injured in a rock fall at the Eloise underground copper mine.
Rio sponsors Mongolian Olympians (0) January 13, 2012 Rio Tinto, which manages the massive Oyu Tolgoi mine in Mongolia, is sponsoring two of the nation’s athletes for the Olympics.
FMG urges against “preferential treatment” for BHP (0) January 12, 2012 Tensions between Pilbara iron ore rivals BHP Billiton and Fortescue Metals have tightened following FMG’s submission to the Port Hedland council over its competitor’s proposed fly-in-fly-out camp.
Mining ban labelled ‘grandstanding’ (0) January 12, 2012 A Queensland mayor’s call to ban mining in the Somerset region has been slammed by the Queensland Resources Council.
Site Group signs mining equipment training agreement (0) January 12, 2012 Site Group International has signed a training agreement with Monark Group which will see it expand heavy diesel training in the Philippines.
Diamond mining set to be Australia’s strongest 2012 industry (0) January 12, 2012 Diamond mining and motor vehicle manufacturing will be the fastest growing industries in Australia in 2012, according to a report by market researcher IBISWorld.
Clarity needed on coal seam gas [blog] (0) January 11, 2012 The impossibility of finding straight answers on coal seam gas is hurting the industry, Andrew Duffy writes.
Corruption Commission investigating BHP’s FIFO camp (0) January 11, 2012 The WA Corruption and Crime Commission is investigating allegations of misconduct over BHP Billiton’s plans to add 6,000 extra fly-in-fly-out workers to Port Hedland.
Funds for derelict mines “substantially inadequate” (0) January 11, 2012 Derelict mines may represent the “largest contamination liability” facing the NSW Government, according to a report by the Audit Office of NSW.
Chinese miner has no chance of exploring Perth: Moore (0) January 11, 2012 The chances of a Chinese mining company exploring for gold and other minerals in Perth’s eastern suburbs are slim, according to WA mines minister Norman Moore.
LogiCamms wins Rio iron ore contract (0) January 11, 2012 LogiCamms has been awarded two design contracts for the upgrade of electrical infrastructure at Rio Tinto’s iron ore ports.
Indigenous students get a taste of mining (0) January 11, 2012 An indigenous career day held by the David Wirrapanda Foundation and the WA Department of Mines and Petroleum has highlighted jobs in the mining sector.
Hunter Valley the source of most air quality complaints (0) January 10, 2012 According to Environmental Protection Authority pollution data 76 per cent of NSW air quality complaints came from the Hunter Valley last year.
Iron ore prices to soften in 2012 (0) January 10, 2012 Demand for iron ore is set to soften this year on the back of slower steelmaking growth in China, according to London-based price watcher the Steel Index.
QLD mayor fights for mining ban (0) January 10, 2012 A Queensland mayor is calling for a moratorium into the mining industry in the Brisbane valley only weeks after the Scenic Rim called on the government to cancel mining permits ...
Mining jobs demand at all time high (22) January 10, 2012 According to officials at Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal entry level mining jobs are now regularly attracting over 400 applicants.
Atlantic produces first ferrovanadium (0) January 10, 2012 Atlantic has achieved first ferrovanadium production from its Windimurra vanadium plant near Mt Magnet, in Western Australia.
Sex worker slams mine towns for “disgusting” discrimination (0) January 9, 2012 A prostitute from Queensland’s mining regions has hit back at angry locals, claiming discrimination against her work was “disgusting” and putting sex workers in danger.
Sacked coalminers will easily find more work: CFMEU (0) January 9, 2012 The Construction, Forestry, Mining, and Energy Union says the fifty coalminers sacked following the rejection of Ahston Coal’s Hunter Valley expansion will likely find other mining work immediately.
Arson attack at Curragh coal mine (0) January 9, 2012 An arson attack late last month destroyed around $3 million worth of equipment.
Airlines expand as mining FIFO work booms (0) January 9, 2012 Qantas is planning to add another 14 aircraft to its fleet over the next 12 months to cater to a growing demand for travel from fly-in-fly-out mine workers.
OZ Minerals ordered to clean up copper spill (0) January 9, 2012 NT WorkSafe has ordered OZ Minerals to remove copper concentrate from the Edith River following a train derailment late last month.
BHP plans thousands more FIFO workers for Port Hedland (0) January 9, 2012 BHP Billiton’s plans to add an extra 6,000 fly-in-fly-out workers to Port Hedland have some locals concerned the town will be “drowned” with transient workers.
QR leaps forward in Bowen Basin (20) January 9, 2012 QR National signed a ten year contract with Rio Tinto to haul coal soon after the opening of its billion dollar expansion project.
Australian Mining is on break (0) December 16, 2011 Australian Mining is on holidays. We’ll be back on the 9th of January.
Wasted opportunities: A list of miners and the cash they’ve blown (0) December 16, 2011 While miners are earning record wages, many are blowing their money and wasting the opportunity. Australian Mining spoke to one worker and compiled a list of some of the worst ...
Miner pleads guilty to environmental damage (0) December 16, 2011 CopperCo has pled guilty to causing environmental harm following the uncontrolled release of contaminated water from the Lady Annie Mine in 2009.
The top ten stories of 2011 (0) December 16, 2011 As we wrap up this year, we look back at your favourite articles on Australian Mining, and what had you reading this year.
QLD pollie pushes FIFO tax (0) December 16, 2011 Former central Queensland politician Jim Pearce has suggested a tax for fly in fly out workers for mining companies.
Orica plant to remain closed (0) December 16, 2011 Orica’s Kooragang Island plant may remain closed indefinitely after a false start last night.
magnetic water conditioning (0) December 15, 2011 The water conditioning is aimed at issues where lime scale, fouling and air leakage in steam condensers, cooling towers, water reclamation plants, boiler water lines affects plant efficiency where water ...
Exploration spending skyrocketing (0) December 15, 2011 Exploration for coal and iron ore has hit record highs, according to new figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Fortescue Metals Group has been given conditional approval to go ahead with its $247 million expansion of the Cloudbreak mine in the Pilbara.
The Australian Workers’ Union has called for State and Federal Government action following Alcoa’s announcement that it is “reviewing the future viability” of its Point Henry smelter.
Thiess has won a $180 million contract with BMA for earthworks at the Caval Ridge mine.
Decmil has signed a five year contract for civil works with Rio Tinto.
Thiess has won a $325 million contract to build gas processing facilities for the Queensland Curtis Island LNG project.
Glencore International has agreed to buy Xstrata for $38 billion to create one of the world’s largest resources companies.
Pike River coal mine’s deadly explosion has been blamed on a string events caused by a roof collapse.
Fortescue Metals Group is exploring South Australia for copper, gold, and uranium in an effort to diversify beyond its Pilbara iron ore business.
Rio Tinto has announced a massive $3.1 billion expansion to its Pilbara iron ore operations.
BHP Billiton has posted a first half profit of $9.2 billion, one of the biggest in Australia’s history but short of analyst’s predictions and the record it set last year.
LD Operations proposed coal project in the Margaret River has been rejected by WA environment minister Bill Marmion.
The fight over the GT3000 drill rig has heated up as Strange Investments seeks a court order to take possession of the rig.
Alcoa has announced a review into the future viability of its Point Henry aluminium smelter in Geelong.
Whitehaven Coal has recommenced operations after heavy rains halted mining in the Gunnedah Basin.
Rio Tinto has appointed John Varley as a senior independent director to its board.
Mining jobs in resources states have helped boost job advertisements on the internet and in newspapers to their highest level in almost two years.
Shares in Pilbara iron ore miner Fortescue Metals jumped yesterday amid speculation diversified commodity trader Noble Group had bought a stake in the company.
The Chinese Government has effectively banned Vale’s $8 billion mega-ships from using its ports, citing safety concerns.
The talks between Glencore and Xstrata over their proposed $88 billion merger have escalated, with Glencore expected to pay an eight per cent premium to seal the deal.
Heavy rains have forced the closure of Xstrata’s Ernest Henry copper mine.
OZ Minerals has awarded Thiess a $1 billion mining contract for Prominent Hill.
South Africa’s Government will not bring in new mining taxes, and has vetoed a policy of nationalisation of the mining industry.
Engineering group Monadelphous has divested its 14% stake in Norfolk Group.
The CFMEU has vowed to continue rolling strikes at BMA’s coal mines in the Bowen Basin.
About 30 miners were forced into rescue chambers after an underground fire broke out in the Fosterville Gold Mine in central Victoria on the weekend.
The Zimbabwe Government has raised mining and licence fees by between 500 and 5,000 per cent, according to state-controlled local media the Sunday Mail.
The Western Australian Government says it is hoping to this year settle a long running native title claim over Perth in a $1 billion package involving large transfers of land.
New advancements in mining technology, such as autonomous vehicles, look set to spur growth in the mining industry rather than kill jobs, according to a report by BAEconomics.
A copper spill on the Northern Territory’s Edith River has finally been cleared.
Gindalbie Metals has awarded Downer EDI Mining the contract to mine its Karara iron ore project.
Orica has resumed the restart of its Kooragang Island ammonia plant after repairing a faulty compressor.
ISS Group has signed an enterprise licence and maintenance agreement with Fortescue Metals.
The WA Government has announced a major shakeup to how the state’s industrial ports are managed.
The Northern Territory has received a number of proposals for exploration of the seabed off the coast.
WA Premier Colin Barnett has told Fortescue Metals Group and Aquila Resources to bury their differences and work together to from a new port in WA.
One of the most vocal opponents to Lynas Corporation’s plans in Malaysia says it is “outraged and appalled” by the Government’s decision to grant Lynas a temporary operating licence.
Panoramic Resources has announced its intention to acquire Magma Metals.
Anglo American CEO Cynthia Carroll is recovering from an operation after injuring her hip while horse riding this weekend.
Coretrack has begun legal action against Strange Investments over the IP of the GT3000 drill rig, and has been forced to downsizing of its Globe Drill subsidiary.
Queensland miners and the DERM are facing community ire over water discharges.
A falling nickel price and high Australian dollar have prompted BHP Billiton to sack 155 workers from its NickelWest operations.
Queensland’s expanding coal and coal seam gas industry has created 5000 new jobs in Gladstone and will add another 2,000 this year, according to the Gladstone Economic and Industry Development ...
One of Fortescue Metals Group’s most influential investors has sold almost all of its stock in the company.
More heavy seas have seen the destruction of the damaged phosphate ship off Christmas Island.
Workers at the Port Kembla Coal Terminal have gone on strike.
Western Australian mines minister Norman has announced his retirement.
BHP Billiton has approved nearly $1 billion in funding for the construction of its iron ore outer harbour facility in Port Hedland.
Rio Tinto has acquired BHP Billiton’s stake in Richard Bay Minerals (RBM), doubling its holding.
Sandvik has commemorated 150 years in the industry.
The West Australian Department of Mines and Petroleum is investigating an incident which left one man injured last month.
Catalyst Metals may acquire Unity Metals’ Kangaroo Flat gold plant and Bendigo assets.
Xstrata says it’s planning on doubling production at its McArthur River operation, the Northern Territory’s biggest mine.
Thousands of people searching for mining jobs are expected to attend the Queensland Mining and Jobs Expo in Logan today.
QR National has rejected Clive Palmer’s claims it breached confidentiality agreements with the miner after it was granted significant project status.
ABB has announced the acquisition of Thomas & Betts for $3.9 billion.
Queensland has unveiled the world’s first mobile mine gas laboratory for mine emergencies.
Planners in the Australian Defence Force have urged the military to maintain a strong presence in the country’s north and northwest to guard important resources projects.
While a number of miners are interested in acquiring New Zealand’s Pike River Coal mine, the possibility of strict safety measures and recovering dead miners has put off some investors.
The South Australian Government has applied to the High Court to appeal a judgment banning Argonaut Resources from operating on land contested to be an Aboriginal heritage site.
BHP Billiton is reportedly on the hunt to develop more sites around its new Olympic Dam development in South Australia.
Clive Palmer’s China First has launched an $8 billion lawsuit against QR for alleged breaches of confidentiality and misleading conduct.
The Department of Environment and Resource Management is investigating two alleged mine water discharges
West Australian mining minister Norman Moore is facing a split within his party as he rejects proposals to prevent coal mining in the Margaret River region.
Monadelphous has won contracts for Rio Tinto’s water supply system in the Pilbara, as well as work with Chevron Australia.
The Indonesian Government has revoked the exploration licence of the partner of Arc Exploration following violent protests by locals that have left two people dead.
The Chamber of Minerals and Energy WA is lobbying the WA Government to change its handling of environmental approvals for the mining industry.
Australia’s mining machinery imports have experienced their biggest fall since the global financial crisis, according to one of the nation’s largest freight carriers.
A damaged ship carrying close to 70 000 tonnes of coal is being moved from the Great Barrier Reef to Brisbane.
Crusader Coal will restart Solid Energy’s former Terrace mine in New Zealand.
The NSW Government has rejected Hunter Ports’ proposed Terminal 5 coal loading point.
Whitehaven Coal says a difficulty in finding qualified staff is slowing production, along with adverse weather conditions and a shortage of explosives due to problems at Orica.
Atlas Iron has offered new jobs to the 70 miners soon to lose work at the closing Wodgina tantalum mine.
Mining equipment maker Caterpillar has exceeded market expectations and posted record earnings for its fourth quarter.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has granted interim approval to an alliance between Virgin and Skywest.
The latest round of negotiations at Lanco’s Griffin coal mine have failed.
Close to 300 miners at the West Cliff coal mine are likely to strike next week over ongoing pay disputes.
The ties between NSW and India have increased on the back of demand for coking coal.
![Lynas secures rare earth funding [updated]](https://www.australianmining.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/lynas-mt-weld-2_26-150x150.jpg)
Lynas Corporation has secured an additional $US225 million in funding to cover the rising costs over its rare earths facility in Malaysia.
Peabody Energy has warned its global coal output is unlikely to change this year because the recently acquired Macarthur Coal mines are not up to industry standard.
The national guideline for safe lead levels may soon be cut in half.
The mining industry has welcomed new bi-partisan political support for Sunday trading in Western Australia, and says the move will make it easier to attract workers.
The Mining Industry Skills Centre has changed its name to the Kinetic Group.
P&H Minepro’s application to build a facility to repair mining equipment in Rutherford has been approved.
Industrial action by the CFMEU is threatening to shut down BHP Billiton’s Port Kembla Coal Terminal as its Bowen Basin coal mines face a similar predicament.
Rio Tinto has acquired a majority stake in Ivanhoe Mines, taking its share to just over half the company.
New West Australian Labor leader Mark McGowan has announced a major policy shift on uranium mining in an effort to boost the party’s poor polling numbers.
A Bunbury man is fighting for workers compensation after claiming he was struck by lightning while working for mining contractor NRW Holdings.
The NSW Government has approved the expansion of Centennial Coal’s Myuna coalmine despite concerns from environmental groups about its impact on Lake Macquarie.
Federal Environment Minister Tony Burke has reopened consideration of Rio Tinto’s $1.4 billion South of Embley bauxite mine expansion following concern over its environmental impact.
The mining industry can help push NSW to the top of the country’s economic table after it rated last for growth, the NSW Minerals Council says.
Industrea has renewed its mining contract at the Baralaba South mine in the Bowen Basin.
Queensland mines minister Stirling Hinchliffe has warned of mining job rorts.
The Northern Territory Government has given development consent for the multi-billion dollar Ichthys gas plant at Blaydin Point.
Orica have confirmed that it will push back the restart of its Kooragang Island ammonia plant.
The West Australian EPA has given conditional approval to BHP Billiton’s plans for an outer harbour development at Port Hedland.
WDS Ltd’s mining division has renewed its existing contract for the installation of secondary support at Xstrata’s Tahmoor coal mine.
Coal mines in Queensland and New South Wales are facing a fight to exist, with Greens MPs and local environmentalists campaigning to close them down.
While the details of her family trust battle would be embarrassing, iron ore heiress Gina Rinehart has no right to suppress them, the NSW Court of Appeal has ruled.
According to health experts three-in-four workers in the mining industry are overweight, with Queensland mining town Mount Isa a chronic disease hotspot.
FLSmidth has entered into an agreement to fully acquire Ludowici.
A series of financial reports has underlined the importance of mining to the national economy, with experts highlighting resources as the key to growth in most states.
An underground coal miner was airlifted to hospital after injuring himself this morning.
Curtin University’s agricultural campus Muresk will soon open its doors to the mining industry.
Women on Boards have launched professional development workshops for women in rural, regional, and remote Australia.
Negotiations at Lanco’s Griffin coal mine will continue this week as the company continues to push for an extra half hour during shift work.
Vale has completed the first delivery of its new super-size carriers to China, the latest move by the Brazilian miner to ramp up pressure on its Australian rivals.
![Financial advice every FIFO worker should know from someone who learned the hard way [blog]](https://www.australianmining.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/fly-in-fly-out-420x0-WATODAY_6-150x150.jpg)
If you’re anything like I used to be with money, you probably make it a habit to check your bank balance the day you return to work. Then, as a ...
The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of West Australian has highlighted increased productivity as the central theme in its pre-budget submission.
The WA Government’s commitment to upgrading Esperance Port has been welcomed by industry as an important step in developing mining in the state’s south.
Charges have been laid against Lanco Resources’ subsidiaries over a char plant explosion in 2008.
The Queensland Resources Council has released its 2012 state election policy agenda.
A new proposal from Wallarah 2 Coal is unlikely to go ahead as tougher laws are brought into place.
A ship near the Great Barrier Reef carrying more than 67 000 tonnes of coal has been discovered to have a cracked hull.
While ten workers from Spain have joined Xstrata Zinc, members of the African community in Darwin say they fear they are being overlooked for mining jobs.
Lynas Corporation has significantly increased its rare earths deposit at the Mount Weld project in WA, and analysts remain confident the miner is performing well.
A new massive mining equipment facility will be built in Mackay.
A mine site drug tester says methamphetamine, commonly known as ice, is starting to make its way to mining camps around Australia.
Anchor Resources has been fined for unsatisfactory rehabilitation of its antimony drill sites.
Western Areas says it is aiming ramp up production in WA to become Australia’s second largest nickel miner.
Phosphate Resources has announced it will resume shipping bulk phosphate after the dramatic destruction of a cargo ship at the island’s port.
A number of government staff cuts are reportedly the cause behind the approvals delay for a workers camp at Blackwater, Queensland.
BHP Billiton has announced a record 22 per cent jump in iron ore production for the December quarter, fuelled by its Pilbara expansions.
South Australia’s Attorney General John Rau is appealing a decision by the state’s Supreme Court to block development of an exploration lease held by Argonaut Resources.
Property prices in Western Australia’s mining regions are tipped to keep rising with the resources boom fuelling demand for regional housing, analysts say.
The Federal Government says it will go to the World Trade Organisation if it confirms reports miners are overlooking local manufacturers to supply their projects.
Rio Tinto has announced high levels for iron ore production and shipments for 2011, according to CEO Tom Albanese.
Two members of the Greens are hitting the Hunter Valley on a ‘coal fact finding tour’.
The EPA has recorded an emissions breach at one of Orica’s plants.
Zublin South East Asia and Australia has won two tunnelling contracts in Abu Dhabi worth $450 million.
New research finding an increase in reports of caffeine poisoning has reinforced the need to ensure mine workers are aware of the risk of using artificial methods to fight fatigue.
Junior explorer Argonaut Resources has criticised South Australia’s mining and native title regulation, accusing it of wasting the miner’s time and money.
Engineering firm RCR Tomlinson has won the power generation works contract for BHP Billiton’s Yarnima power station in Newman, Western Australia.
China has launched a rival online iron ore trading platform it hopes will allow it to weaken the monopoly of Rio Tinto and BHP Billiton.
Atlas Iron chief executive David Flanagan says the Pilbara iron ore miner might need an extra 1,000 workers within three years to feed its expansion projects.
Fortescue Metals has announced a massive 72% resource increase at its North Star magnetite deposit as it considers joint ventures on the project.
The number of mining complaints received by the Department of Planning and Infrastructure dropped by nearly 60% in December, compared to the previous month.
Orica has unveiled plans to build a new ammonium facility at Denman, in the Hunter Valley.
Newcrest Mining will now work directly with Fiji military dictator Frank Bainimarama after he seized responsibility for the Namosi copper and gold project.
A new survey of tourist accommodation shows rooms in some mining communities are close to full while regional tourist towns are suffering.
The Mining Industry Skills Centre has launched a new course designed to provide mining job seekers a better understanding of life in the industry.
Ausenco has signed a contract to manage the expansion of Barrick Gold’s Lumwana copper project.
The ongoing battle between the CFMEU and the BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) has taken a step forward after talks last week.
The Somerset Council has passed a moratorium on all exploration, mining, and coal seam gas activities in the Queensland region.
Police have arrested nine anti-coal seam gas protestors obstructing Arrow Energy exploratory drilling on a Queensland property this morning.
![Australian Mining weekly wrap [video]](https://www.australianmining.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/ozminginvideo_4-150x150.jpg)
The Australian Mining weekly wrap is back – keeping you up to date with the happenings in the industry.
Bitter union negotiations are stalling big resources projects and threatening investor confidence, according to the Australian Mines and Metals Association.
Coal miners at Griffin coal are threatening industrial action over moves to introduce hot seating by extending workers hours.
Both the ASX and Australian Securities and Investments Commission are investigating junior explorer Paynes Find gold and its colourful chief executive Peter Salter.
The body-building supplement Jack3d, which contains a synthetic stimulant, has been banned at a Bowen Basin mine following reports workers were using it to stay awake.
Amidst forecasts of a massive miner shortfall in the state, Gindalbie has launched a recruitment campaign for its Karara iron ore mine.
Global aluminum supplier Norsk Hydro yesterday announced plans to cut the capacity of its Australian New South Wales-based Kurri Kurri smelter by 33 percent citing low metal prices as the ...
A miner has been injured in a rock fall at the Eloise underground copper mine.
Rio Tinto, which manages the massive Oyu Tolgoi mine in Mongolia, is sponsoring two of the nation’s athletes for the Olympics.
The Chinese mining company wishing to explore parts of Perth’s suburbs for gold and other minerals has withdrawn its application.
Tensions between Pilbara iron ore rivals BHP Billiton and Fortescue Metals have tightened following FMG’s submission to the Port Hedland council over its competitor’s proposed fly-in-fly-out camp.
A Queensland mayor’s call to ban mining in the Somerset region has been slammed by the Queensland Resources Council.
Site Group International has signed a training agreement with Monark Group which will see it expand heavy diesel training in the Philippines.
Diamond mining and motor vehicle manufacturing will be the fastest growing industries in Australia in 2012, according to a report by market researcher IBISWorld.
New analysis of upcoming resource and infrastructure projects in Western Australia indicates a desperate need for workers to fill job vacancies.
Industrea has signed a renewal contract with Xstrata for equipment hire its Black Star open cut mine.
The push for mining companies to pay more for regional health services is growing.
The EPA has ordered a report on the latest flare ups at the Kooragang Island explosives plant.
![Clarity needed on coal seam gas [blog]](https://www.australianmining.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/gas_2-150x150.jpg)
The impossibility of finding straight answers on coal seam gas is hurting the industry, Andrew Duffy writes.
The Obama administration has banned new hard rock mining on over a million acres of uranium rich land near the Grand Canyon.
The WA Corruption and Crime Commission is investigating allegations of misconduct over BHP Billiton’s plans to add 6,000 extra fly-in-fly-out workers to Port Hedland.
Derelict mines may represent the “largest contamination liability” facing the NSW Government, according to a report by the Audit Office of NSW.
The chances of a Chinese mining company exploring for gold and other minerals in Perth’s eastern suburbs are slim, according to WA mines minister Norman Moore.
LogiCamms has been awarded two design contracts for the upgrade of electrical infrastructure at Rio Tinto’s iron ore ports.
An indigenous career day held by the David Wirrapanda Foundation and the WA Department of Mines and Petroleum has highlighted jobs in the mining sector.
Flames have again shot from the stacks of the Kooragang Island plant.
Three miners have been injured at the Agnew underground gold mine.
According to Environmental Protection Authority pollution data 76 per cent of NSW air quality complaints came from the Hunter Valley last year.
Demand for iron ore is set to soften this year on the back of slower steelmaking growth in China, according to London-based price watcher the Steel Index.
A Queensland mayor is calling for a moratorium into the mining industry in the Brisbane valley only weeks after the Scenic Rim called on the government to cancel mining permits ...
According to officials at Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal entry level mining jobs are now regularly attracting over 400 applicants.
Gindalbie Metals has awarded its Karara iron ore tailings management contract to Bis Industries.
Atlantic has achieved first ferrovanadium production from its Windimurra vanadium plant near Mt Magnet, in Western Australia.
Wild weather has seen a cargo ship carrying phosphate break against the coast of Christmas Island.
A prostitute from Queensland’s mining regions has hit back at angry locals, claiming discrimination against her work was “disgusting” and putting sex workers in danger.
The Construction, Forestry, Mining, and Energy Union says the fifty coalminers sacked following the rejection of Ahston Coal’s Hunter Valley expansion will likely find other mining work immediately.
An arson attack late last month destroyed around $3 million worth of equipment.
Qantas is planning to add another 14 aircraft to its fleet over the next 12 months to cater to a growing demand for travel from fly-in-fly-out mine workers.
NT WorkSafe has ordered OZ Minerals to remove copper concentrate from the Edith River following a train derailment late last month.
BHP Billiton’s plans to add an extra 6,000 fly-in-fly-out workers to Port Hedland have some locals concerned the town will be “drowned” with transient workers.
QR National signed a ten year contract with Rio Tinto to haul coal soon after the opening of its billion dollar expansion project.
A heavy storm in Newcastle has seen lightning strikes ignite gas discharges above the Kooragang Island chemical plant.
While miners are earning record wages, many are blowing their money and wasting the opportunity. Australian Mining spoke to one worker and compiled a list of some of the worst ...
The mining industry is set to fund the development of an air-quality monitoring network for Newcastle.
CopperCo has pled guilty to causing environmental harm following the uncontrolled release of contaminated water from the Lady Annie Mine in 2009.
As we wrap up this year, we look back at your favourite articles on Australian Mining, and what had you reading this year.
Former central Queensland politician Jim Pearce has suggested a tax for fly in fly out workers for mining companies.
Orica’s Kooragang Island plant may remain closed indefinitely after a false start last night.
Exploration for coal and iron ore has hit record highs, according to new figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.