Epiroc Ground Support has formed a strategic partnership with Master Builders Solutions to co-develop next-generation chemical technologies for underground mining, combining Epiroc’s ground support systems with Master Builders’ concrete admixtures and shotcrete/underground construction products. The collaboration targets improved performance of rockbolts, mesh and cable support when used with high-performance sprayed concrete and grouts, particularly in deep and highly stressed ground conditions. For mine operators, the move signals closer integration between support hardware and tailored chemical formulations, with potential gains in early strength, adhesion and durability of ground support systems.

Macmahon Holdings has signed a Letter of Intent with Wolfram Limited, a Bumi Resources subsidiary, to restart the Mount Carlton Gold Mine in north Queensland, covering both surface and underground mining plus associated civil infrastructure works. The scope is expected to include open-pit and underground production, haul road and ROM pad construction, and potential tailings and water management upgrades typical of a brownfield restart. Contractors and suppliers should anticipate tenders for fleet, ground support, drill-and-blast, and civil packages once the LoI progresses to a full mining services contract.

Alligator Energy has begun uranium extraction in the field leach trial at its Samphire in-situ recovery (ISR) project near Whyalla, South Australia, a key step towards proving commercial ISR performance in the Eyre Peninsula’s shallow sandstone aquifers. The trial will operate a closed-circuit lixiviant system through a dedicated wellfield to generate real-time data on uranium recovery, solution chemistry and groundwater behaviour under controlled drawdown. Results will drive final well spacing, pump sizing and process plant design, and feed into regulatory approvals for full-scale ISR mining.