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Anglo American’s Futuresmart™ Mining Here to Stay

08 February 2019 | BBMC Events

Celebrating their 50th successful luncheon networking event, the Bowen Basin Mining Club welcomed in 2019 with a record turnout in Mackay this week.

Guests at the Souths Leagues Club on Thursday heard from keynote speakers Dr Paul Buddery, Principal Underground Geotechnical Engineer, and Maryanne Webb, Sourcing and Contracts Manager from Anglo American.

‘Futuresmart™ Mining’ is Anglo American’s innovation-led approach to sustainable mining in 2019 and beyond. The luncheon presentations outlined a clearly articulated path to Anglo American’s future, improving their company-wide processes and aligning their values for game-changing leadership in the industry.

Dr Buddery threw out a challenge to suppliers and contractors in the audience to bring forward all and any proposals for not just cost-savings and efficiencies, but new and radically smart, transformational ideas in both open cut and underground operations.

“If you’re a supplier with a smart idea, come and talk to us about it, because we know we don’t have the monopoly on good ideas. If your idea will drive step-change improvements across our business, we’re all ears.”

He detailed collaborations already underway at Anglo American’s underground sites in the Bowen Basin where the company was partnering with suppliers to test and refine innovative ideas. Demonstrating collaboration in action with their suppliers Jennmar and Nome Services, Anglo American were finalists in the Collaboration Category at the 2018 Queensland Mining Awards.

In Anglo American’s open cut operations, the company is constantly challenging benchmarks. Improving shovel performance, optimising dragline operation and increasing truck available hours is an everyday occurrence.

Ms Webb highlighted Anglo American’s determination to make a difference in local communities and areas of operations, shifting the resource sector closer to alignment with the agricultural sector in public perception – powering the world and improving lives.

“We’re working with our suppliers and business partners to help achieve our purpose of re-imagining mining to improve people’s lives. We strongly believe success is about a diverse supplier base with businesses of all sizes, and linking the right ideas together to make a difference,” said Ms Webb.

The 2018 BBMC Yearbook was also launched at the event, showcasing thought leadership and a wrap up of the year’s events, pointing towards a bright future for the industry. Request your copy of the Yearbook or view online at www.bbminingclub.com/bbmc-yearbook.

The next luncheon will be held in Mackay on 28 March, featuring Mr Abdul Jarrah, Thiess Executive General Manager – Australia and Pacific. Tickets are on sale now via www.bbminingclub.com.