Our Qld Operations Welcomes a new GM

Mark Adams joined MMG in November 2011, and officially took the reigns at MMG’s Century mine in north-west Queensland last week following the departure of former General Manager Karl Spaleck.

In addition to managing Century, Mark will provide Operations leadership to MMG’s Dugald River development project, located about 85 kilometres north-east of Mount Isa.

With extensive experience managing operations in Queensland and Western Australia, Mark was most recently Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Barminco.

Mark said it was the opportunity to lead one of Australia’s leading mining operations, Century, while being involved in the development of one of the world’s largest undeveloped zinc deposits that attracted him to the role.

“It’s not everyday you get asked to lead one of the industry’s best operations, especially one with as strong a community focus as Century. Just one example is the rate of Indigenous employment at the mine; currently about 25% of the mine’s workforce identify as being from local Indigenous communities. That’s
about five times the industry average for local Indigenous participation.

“In addition to leading Century, I’ll also be providing Operations leadership to MMG’s Dugald River project. This is one of the world’s largest undeveloped zinc deposits and the Board recently committed a further A$157 million for the next stage of works at the site.

“The Board will consider final approval for development and commissioning of Dugald River once this phase of works is complete. This means that Dugald River could in production in early 2014 subject to this and other approvals.”

Mark said that the development of Dugald River was part of MMG’s strategy to maintain its presence in north west Queensland and replace Century zinc production.

“This year we’ll continue to explore all options to extend Century mine life beyond 2015. However, it’s important to remember that all mines are finite resources.

“That’s why MMG is also progressing a number of growth projects internationally to replace Century in zinc equivalent production, with Dugald River being an important part of this strategy.”

Mark said a focus over coming months would be on meeting with Century’s 1000-strong workforce, the Dugald River project team and other stakeholders.

“I’ve already met with many people at Century and am looking forward to meeting with more of MMG’s team in the north-west soon.

“I’ll also be travelling around the Gulf over the next few months to hear from community members. Production began at Century more than 12 years ago and I believe it is important that I understand the history and impact of the operation in the region.”

The A$157 million next phase of works at Dugald River includes detailed engineering, metallurgical testwork, long-lead time major equipment procurement, continuation of site early works and underground decline development.

Century and Dugald River are owned by MMG, a member of the Minmetals Resources Limited (MMR) group of companies. MMR is a global resources company listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange.