In the heart of central Queensland, a unique initiative is unfolding, one that blends the might of mining technology with the warmth of community support. Bravus Mining and Resources, operating the Carmichael mine near Clermont, has found a novel way to give back to regional Queensland families in need. The company, in collaboration with mining technology and change management business Haultrax, has upcycled more than 50 state-of-the-art tablets, originally used in mining operations, to support Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia and the Salvation Army.
Glen Corfield, Bravus Mining and Resources head of production and site senior executive, expressed pride in the initiative. “We’re proud to operate in regional Queensland and are passionate about backing the organisations and causes that are important to the 1200 workers at our Carmichael mine,” Corfield said. The tablets, reconditioned and preloaded with a range of applications from Minecraft to Messenger by Haultrax, are now in the hands of children and families who need them most. The initiative is a testament to the power of corporate social responsibility and the potential of technology to drive positive change.
The impact of this initiative is already visible. Children from the Ronald McDonald House were all smiles as they enjoyed the new tablets, a small but significant distraction from their challenging circumstances. Tamara South, chief executive officer of Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, highlighted the importance of such support. “We’re incredibly grateful to Bravus Mining and Resources and Haultrax for their support because we can’t do it alone. It’s the support of community partners that truly makes our work possible,” South said. The tablets will help seriously ill children and their siblings access educational activities and resources, providing a welcome distraction during tough times.
The Salvation Army is also set to benefit from this initiative. Major Peter Sutcliffe, Townsville corps officer team leader, announced that the tablets would be put to immediate use at next month’s Red Shield Appeal launch. Following this, they will be distributed to Community Connect sites to help locals access essential resources. This initiative is a clear example of how technology can be repurposed to address real-world problems, a trend that could gain more traction in the mining industry.
Steven Doyle, Haultrax operational specialist, echoed this sentiment. “Partnering with Bravus Mining and Resources on this initiative was an easy decision and we hope these tablets bring a little joy and ease to the children and families who need it most,” Doyle said. The collaboration between Bravus Mining and Resources and Haultrax demonstrates the potential of public-private partnerships in driving social impact. It also underscores the importance of upcycling and repurposing technology, a practice that could become more prevalent in the mining industry.
This news could shape the development of the mining sector in several ways. Firstly, it could inspire other mining companies to adopt similar initiatives, fostering a culture of corporate social responsibility. Secondly, it could lead to more innovative uses of technology, both within and outside the mining industry. Lastly, it could strengthen the relationship between mining companies and local communities, a crucial aspect of sustainable mining operations. As the mining industry continues to evolve, initiatives like this one could play a significant role in shaping its future.
