Exploration technologies and methodologies
Dr Sandra Occhipinti, research director in minerals at Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, is leading a team of more than 100 scientists focused on one of the most complex challenges in modern exploration: how to accelerate mineral discovery in covered terrains while simultaneously improving geometallurgical insight across the mining value chain.
In a world-first approach that sounds more like science fiction than geoscience, Ideon Technologies is leading a charge to reduce geological guesswork in mineral exploration using cosmic rays generated by exploding stars.
As mineral exploration enters an era defined by data complexity and digital transformation, one of the biggest hurdles geoscientists face is not a lack of information, but too much of it.
In an industry awash with plug-and-play software and AI buzzwords, Oliver “Olly” Willetts, senior geologist and resource estimation consultant at SRK Consulting, stands out for his clear-eyed, problem-first approach to geoscientific data management.
As the mining industry edges closer to a tipping point on tailings management, a panel of global experts at the 2025 Life of Mine | Mine Waste and Tailings Conference in Brisbane issued a clear message: discipline in operations, humility in design, and a more adaptive mindset will be critical to preventing the next tailings disaster.
From deserts to drill pads, remote exploration teams increasingly need to make informed, high-impact decisions without waiting weeks for lab results.
At the AusIMM 2025 Life of Mine - Mine Waste and Tailings Conference in Brisbane, a standout panel on site characterisation dug deep into the evolving challenges - and innovations - facing tailings engineers.
For decades, mine planning has leaned heavily on deterministic models - tools that simplify the earth into a single version of the truth.
In a sector awash with smart tech, real-time data and emerging AI capabilities, it's easy to overlook the nuts and bolts of data management.
At a time when mining operations are under growing pressure to optimise resource use, reduce waste, and demonstrate environmental stewardship, access to real-time data is no longer a luxury - it’s a necessity.
