Curtin University’s WA School of Mines, the Minerals Research Institute of WA and the Cooperative Research Centre for Optimising Resource Extraction (CRC ORE) have launched a new mining innovation hub in Kalgoorlie-Boulder that will aim address some of the mining industry’s biggest challenges in the Goldfields, such as limitations on knowledge and technical resources in the region.
Located at the Chamber of Minerals and Energy’s office, the hub will also test and develop novel ways to optimise the extraction of precious minerals and ensure WA retains its credentials as a world leader in the minerals industry.
Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston welcomed the launch of the new mining innovation hub, saying it would help boost economic prosperity in WA.
“Creating and maintaining jobs for Western Australians is our number one priority and this hub will offer workers development training from Australia’s best scientists, engineers and mining experts,” the Minister said.
“The hub will increase the focus on bridging new science and technology for the mineral sector, and increase the attractiveness of doing minerals research in WA.”
According to Mr Johnston, the Minerals Research Institute of WA invested $600,000 from the McGowan Government towards the CRC ORE, which contributed to designing and establishing the new hub.
Dr Luke Keeney, a key driver of the Hub’s development, said the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Mining Innovation Hub will nurture and progress new mining technologies to revolutionise the way gold and other mineral deposits are exploited for maximum profitability and minimum environmental impact.
“The Hub will develop and test novel ways to optimise the extraction of precious minerals,” Mr Keeney noted.
“It will boost the industry and regions economic prosperity, as well as its environmental sustainability. This work is essential in ensuring Australia retains its credentials and remains competitive as a world leader in the production of minerals and associated technology.”
Other hub partners include METS Ignited (an Industry Growth Centre funded by the Australian Government), the Chamber of Minerals and Energy, Central Regional TAFE and the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
“A hub director and the establishment of an advisory committee for the hub will be announced in due course,” the Minister said in his statement.
