WA mining on centre stage
THE key drivers pushing the WA mining industry will be examined at a new WA mining conference to be held in Perth from October 15-16.
The program will examine innovation across the entire value chain from earlystage exploration to scoping and feasibility, onto design and construction through operation and ultimately rehabilitation.
These in-depth sessions will provide operational and execution strategies of a mine’s life cycle and discuss approaches to improve productivity, lower costs and optimise the end to end process.
The two-day conference hosts an impressive line-up of speakers that will feature mining decision-makers, technology experts and industry leaders.
Among them will be international mining expert and former BHP Billiton external affairs manager, Dr Osvaldo Urzua, who will discuss transiting to safe, smart, inclusive and sustainable mining.
“The world is rapidly heading to the automation era and mining can make automation work for all,” Dr Urzua said.
“The WA Mining Conference gives me a chance to discuss how collective action is required, and technology suppliers must consider social and community impacts. This is a new factor to be considered in the assessment of companies bidding processes.
“Australia is an example of how mining has participated in technological revolutions. In the past Australian software has revolutionised mine planning processes. Today’s METS sector is the new champion.”
Swedish academic, technologist and strategic advisor to the Defence SA Advisory Board, Professor Goran Ross, is also one of the key speakers.
Professor Ross will discuss collaboration strategies for the industry and what Australia can do to accelerate its innovations and capabilities.
WA Mining Director Brandon Ward said this inaugural WA conference will provide delegates with a conversational style platform that will address the role technology and people will play in the future of mining in the state.
“The WA Mining Conference agenda echoes the importance of collaboration, innovation and technology development in the WA mining sector and attendees will be given the chance to hear from leading experts who will share their insights about what is driving the sector forward while providing a unique opportunity to participate in this open and transparent dialogue,” Mr Ward said.
“WA mining will be technology-centric but it will examine the vital role people will play with augmented human intelligence, machine learning, predictive analytics and how the industry ensures the human capital is available to take the sector through its next phase. No other event in WA offers this level of insight into the key drivers accelerating the WA mining sector to 2030.”
Alongside the conference will be a targeted supplier showcase where delegates can source the latest products and services as well as a networking event on the first night to catch up with colleagues from across the state.
The WA Mining Conference will take place at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, with doors opening at 9am on both days.
Early bird tickets are now available and they can be purchased by visiting waminingexpo.com.au.