BHP Chief Digital Officer Mikko Tepponen argues that falling discovery rates and more complex orebodies are pushing miners towards data-centric decision-making, from exploration targeting to multi-decade capital allocation. He points to integrating geological, geophysical and drilling datasets into unified cloud platforms and using machine learning models to rank targets and optimise mine plans under multiple regulatory and ESG constraints. Tepponen stresses that value comes from linking these AI tools directly to operational decisions, such as dynamic cut-off grade strategies and real-time processing adjustments, rather than from pilots in isolated data science teams.

3ME Technology has secured IECEx hazardous area certification for its BladeVOLT® lithium-ion battery system to the IEC 60079 series, enabling use on electric mobile equipment in gassy underground mines previously limited to diesel or tethered power. The intrinsically safe design targets Group I mining atmospheres, allowing OEMs to integrate high‑energy battery packs into flameproof or explosion-protected platforms without separate local certification. This opens a compliant pathway for battery-electric loaders, trucks and utility vehicles in coal and other gas-prone operations seeking to cut diesel emissions and heat load.

Macmahon Holdings has signed a Letter of Intent with Manuka Resources to restart open-pit mining at the Wonawinta silver project in the Cobar Basin, central west New South Wales, with production targeted from May 2026. The agreement positions Macmahon as preferred mining contractor for the brownfield operation, which previously focused on shallow oxide silver ore and existing heap leach infrastructure. Geotechnical and mine planning teams will need to update pit designs, wall stability assessments and water management for re-entry into partially rehabilitated pits and legacy waste dumps.