CEEC International Attends Austmine Copper to the World Conference 2024
CEEC International’s Directors, Joe Pease (presenting on behalf of Russell Mineral Equipment in his role as Industry Advisor), Alex Blood, and Advocate Sarah Boucaut, attended the Austmine Copper to the World Conference from June 17-19, 2024. The conference, held in Adelaide, showcased significant insights and developments in the copper mining sector, drawing participation from global leaders and industry experts.
The event featured a range of speakers who provided excellent perspectives on various aspects of copper mining. Among the notable speakers were Luis Anderson, Global Director of Copper for Hatch; Joshua Annear, GM Operations at MMG Australia; Luke Bellamy, Director of Standards with The Copper Mark; Nkandu Beltz, MD of Beltz Mining in Zambia, along with the High Commissioner to Australia from Zambia; and Christine Charles, Chair of EnviroCopper.
Fleet Space Technologies, a major event sponsor, highlighted their success in the global satellite market from their base in Lot 14, South Australia. Additionally, Benny Chen, Head of Data and Analytics at ORICA, delivered an engaging and insightful presentation.
Other distinguished speakers included Bernd Elser from Accenture, Rafael Estrada from Antamina, David Gribble and Russ Lamont from Dyno Nobel, Janine Griffiths from Global Resources Accenture, Paul Heathersay from the SA Department of Energy and Mining, Jamie King from BHP, Jay Limbasiya from Dell Technologies USA, Jacqui McGill, Piers Montgomery from CRU Group (UK), Paul Murphy from Liebherr Australia, and Karly Wai from Accenture UK. Over 30 BHP staff members also attended the conference, underscoring its importance in the industry.
The event provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with leaders in the METS sector and potential CEEC sponsors and supporters. Research institutions such as the University of Adelaide, CSIRO, and University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) were well represented, and local school and engineering students were invited to network with the delegates.
Key messages from the conference emphasised the high energy consumption by AI requiring its thoughtful use, the importance of governance in AI implementation, the need for pilot AI projects to secure employee buy-in, and the engagement of employees in AI project design. The demand for copper is expected to continue growing, driven by green energy technologies and the rapid growth in AI and data centres. Automation was highlighted as a means to de-risk mining operations, while policy changes were identified as crucial drivers of innovation.
CEEC Advocate Sarah Boucaut remarked, "The Austmine Copper to the World Conference provided a unique platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing. It was inspiring to see the industry's commitment to innovation and sustainability."
The South Australian Government’s support for copper mining was evident, with particular emphasis on the Northern Water Corridor Project. This AUD$3 billion initiative is essential for the continued growth of copper extraction and exploration in South Australia, although the Premier noted wide support will be needed to gain backing from South Australian voters. The project is currently in the evaluation study phase, with investment from the State and Federal Governments and BHP.
CEEC International extends its gratitude to Austmine for organising the Copper to the World Conference and for their continued support. The event’s success in attracting global leaders underscores its significance in fostering valuable industry relationships.
The next Copper to the World Conference is scheduled for August 26-27, 2025, in Adelaide, promising another opportunity to advance the dialogue on copper mining and industry innovation.