CMOC-Northparkes Mines (Northparkes) was delighted to welcome Senator the Hon. Matthew Canavan, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, and the Hon. Michael McCormack MP, Member for Riverina and Minister for Small Business to the mine last Thursday.
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Northparkes Managing Director Jim Fowler said it is a pleasure to host visits such as this.
“Northparkes is the world’s most automated underground block-cave mine and we are proud of our history and achievements, Jim said.
Senator Canavan and Minister McCormack toured the end-to-end production process from the E48 underground mine through Northparkes’ hallmark stockpiles and into the concentrator.
They walked through the concentrator, viewed the visio-froth flotation process and saw the final copper concentrate product.
The mill is a vantage point for Northparkes’ farms, which are located adjacent to the mining operations.
While underground, the group viewed the E48 automated loaders in operation and visited the E26 Sub-Level Cave.
They also toured the surface control room, located some 500 metres above the underground operations, where operators control the remote and expert control systems and technologies.
Senator Matthew Canavan, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, said the mining industry is one of the driving forces for regional Australia.
“It was a great opportunity to visit CMOC-Northparkes Mines to see how automated technology is being used by highly skilled employees to make the most of our natural resources,” Senator Canavan said.
Mr McCormack commented on what an outstanding opportunity it was to see a state-of-the-art, world class mine in operation.
“I am impressed at how CMOC-Northparkes Mines combines both mining and farming - showcasing that the two sectors can co-exist,” he said.
“The fact CMOC-Northparkes Mines employs 300 people and engages approximately another 300 contractors during the year, highlights its importance not only to the region's economy but also to the nation. Our Zero Harm philosophy was also showcased today.”