Orica, a global leader in mining and infrastructure solutions, marked a historic milestone in June 2024 as it celebrated 150 years since its founding.
The company hosted a grand 150th Anniversary Gala in Melbourne, Victoria, bringing together officials, customers, partners, retirees, and employees to commemorate this significant achievement.
Founded in June 1874 as Jones, Scott and Company to supply explosives during Australia’s Victorian gold rush, Orica has evolved through mergers and expansions to become a cornerstone of the global manufacturing industry.
Reflecting on the journey, Orica Chairman Malcolm Broomhead remarked, “From our explosive beginnings to our global presence in more than 100 countries today, Orica has been an integral part of the Australian and international manufacturing industry, creating products that have transformed everyday life.”
He continued, “Orica’s 150th milestone is a testament to the company’s strength, adaptability, and ability to thrive in a constantly evolving business landscape.”
Throughout its history, innovation has been central to Orica’s operations, driving advancements that have shaped industries worldwide.
According to the ASX-listed company, innovations like Perspex, Australia’s first skyscraper, and the WebGen wireless blasting technology underscore Orica’s commitment to pioneering solutions.
Recently, the company achieved another milestone with the first blast using low-carbon ammonium nitrate, a step towards sustainable mining practices.
Orica’s Managing Director and CEO Sanjeev Gandhi expressed optimism about the future, stating, “Orica’s legacy is built on the trust our customers and partners place in us, and the talent and innovation of our people.”
He added, “As we step into the future, we will continue to lead the industry with safer, smarter, and more sustainable solutions.”
Today, Orica employs over 12,500 professionals globally, supporting a diverse range of industries including mining, quarrying, construction, and oil and gas.
The company remains dedicated to safety, environmental stewardship, and community engagement while driving toward ambitious goals such as achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
Gandhi concluded, “We invite all our stakeholders to join in celebrating this significant occasion, thank them for their ongoing support, and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in our exciting future, together.”
