From our Ore to Your Door - Episode 1 - Exploration and Geology
Our Kunwarara – Yaamba deposit extends for around 30km, as one of the world’s largest deposits of cryptocrystalline magnesite.
The Kunwarara mine produces around 3 million tonnes of ore annually.
We screen and wash the ore on site, then send more than 400,000 tonnes of higher quality ore to the Parkhurst plant to be processed into quality magnesite products.
We mine selectively across the site to achieve the perfect blends.
The Kunwarara magnesite deposit was discovered in 1986. Over several years, our geologists skillfully mapped out the broad location of the ‘Mag Seam’: the magnesite-containing layer beneath the surface, using broad-spaced drilling.
Once the Mineral Development License was obtained, substantial infill drilling began. This was to ‘fill in the blanks’ of the broad-spaced drilling, to assess what was truly below the surface. This process still happens today as we continue infill drilling for detailed mapping of all ore.
Today, our geologists work with management to assess the reserves and find newer areas to mine, to meet our mining schedule. Geologists also research what ore types will be needed in the future and explore both inside existing Mining Leases and in new areas.
First picture: Kevin, mine surveyor
Second picture: Magnesite nodule, Kunwarara deposit
Third picture: Ian Howard-Smith, founder of Queensland Metals Corporation (QMC) with Magnesite nodules ca. 1985
Falcon Update
The peregrine falcons at QMAG’s Parkhurst processing facility are breeding again after an unfortunate setback in September.
From our Ore to Your Door - Episode 7 - Mining Operations
QMAG currently mines 4 million tonnes of ore per year, from six to eight different pits.
We choose pits based on their magnesite content and contaminant concentrations. There are always at least two pits mined simultaneously to provide the Parkhurst plant with enough material at suitable quality to support our full suite of products.
From our Ore to Your Door - Episode 6 - Mining Pit Development
With exploration, drilling and planning complete, it’s time to start mining. First, surveyors stake out the boundary of the area to be mined. A clearing permit verifies that the area to be mined is within the active lease, has
been cleared by the local Land Council, and has the correct government permit to be mined. Now the pit development can begin.
Visitors to Kunwarara
We were thrilled to welcome Matthew Canavan and Michelle Landry to our mine last week! It was an exciting opportunity to give them an in-depth look at our "Ore to Your Door" process and share the remarkable stories of the local businesses that enrich our community.
The falcons are back!
The final days of winter saw some wonderful news at QMAG’s Parkhurst facility in Rockhampton, Australia – the much loved (and respected) resident peregrine falcons are nesting!
Refratechnik Holding's visit to QMAG facilities
We were honored to welcome Refratechnik Holding's Managing Director Maleachi Bühringer to our Parkhurst production and Kunwarara mining facilities!
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