In the heart of New South Wales, Vertex Minerals is rewriting the playbook for gold processing at its Hill End project. By integrating TOMRA Mining’s advanced LASER ore sorting technology, the company is not just enhancing operational efficiency but also setting a new benchmark for environmentally sustainable mining practices. This strategic move is more than just an upgrade; it’s a bold statement that challenges the status quo and sparks debate within the industry.
The Hill End project, nestled approximately 200 km northwest of Sydney between Bathurst and Mudgee, is no stranger to gold. The historic Hill End goldfield, part of the Eastern Lachlan Fold Belt, has historically yielded over 1.6 million ounces of gold, including the famous Holtermann Nugget. The project’s geology, characterized by gold mineralisation associated with quartz veins within the Chesleigh Formation and Crudine Group, makes it an ideal candidate for gravity separation techniques. This allows for high recovery rates without the need for harmful chemicals, a win for both efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Vertex Minerals’ decision to incorporate TOMRA Mining’s LASER ore sorting technology is a game-changer. This sensor-based technology enables precise separation of ore from waste rock, significantly improving feed grade and reducing the volume of material processed downstream. The integration of LASER sorting complements the existing gravity-based processing plant, which includes crushing, ball milling, and concentration equipment. By pre-concentrating ore before it reaches the mill, Vertex achieves higher throughput and lower energy consumption, a testament to the power of innovation in driving operational excellence.
Roger Jackson, Executive Chairperson of Vertex Minerals, underscores the strategic importance of this project. “Vertex decided to open up this mine because it was already permitted, it was a high-grade gold mine, and we could see an opportunity to have one of the best high-grade gold mines in Australia,” he said. This statement is not just about the potential of the mine but also about the potential of innovative technology to transform the mining landscape.
Gavin Rech, Area Sales and Technical Manager Australia at TOMRA Mining, echoes this sentiment. “What excites me about this project is to work with a team like Vertex and this beautiful historic site, and mine in a more efficient and intelligent way,” he said. This excitement is palpable and infectious, challenging the industry to think beyond traditional methods and embrace the future of mining.
The integration of TOMRA’s LASER technology at the Hill End project is more than just a technological upgrade; it’s a paradigm shift. It challenges the industry to rethink its approach to ore processing, to prioritize efficiency and sustainability, and to embrace innovation. As the mining industry grapples with the dual challenges of resource depletion and environmental responsibility, this project offers a glimpse into a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand.
The implications of this development are far-reaching. It sets a precedent for other mining companies to follow, encouraging them to invest in innovative technologies that enhance operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact. It also sparks a debate about the role of technology in the future of mining, challenging the industry to think beyond the status quo and embrace the possibilities of the future. As the mining industry continues to evolve, projects like the Hill End gold mine serve as a beacon of innovation, guiding the way towards a more efficient, sustainable, and intelligent future.