Exploration Radio

Bruce McDonald, Executive VP of Global Geochemistry for ALS Limited, discusses the paradox of innovation in the mining industry. He highlights how companies are often their own barriers to adopting new technologies. McDonald contrasts the roles of mining firms and service providers, showing how the latter drive innovation. The conversation delves into the impact of globalization, the evolution of service providers, and the crucial need for internal innovation amidst economic constraints. Ultimately, he urges rethinking strategies to translate data into actionable insights.

Discover the rollercoaster world of mining, where booms and busts dictate job security for geologists. Personal stories reveal the humorous highs and lows of industry cycles. Explore the impact of fluctuating metal prices on operations and employment. Delve into the challenges of merging innovation with market volatility and the tension between short-term gains and long-term sustainability. Gain insights into financial strategies critical for navigating these unpredictable cycles.

Delve into the world of practical innovation, where asking the right questions is key to tackling real-world issues. Discover how starting small and iterating can lead to impactful solutions, illustrated by examples from Queensland and the Pacific Islands. Learn how persistence and a bold vision drive innovation forward, focusing on the dynamic nature of the process. Finally, explore the importance of defined goals in evaluating success, balancing risk and opportunity in expansive mining ventures across regions like New Guinea and Vanuatu.

Delve into the adventurous journeys of the CRAESTAR as it navigated the Indonesian islands, long before GPS. Discover the vessel's remarkable exploration efforts in the Pacific, uncovering significant bauxite and sharing humorous sea tales. Explore the historical context of the program and its strategic lessons, including the shift from greenfield to brownfield exploration. Celebrate the passionate individuals behind CRA's successes, showcasing the spirit that defined the exploration journey.

Discover the fascinating world of the MV CRAESTAR, a cutting-edge vessel designed for mineral exploration in the Pacific Islands. Learn how innovative techniques like stream sediment geochemistry revolutionized the search for copper. Hear intriguing tales of helicopter journeys that transformed access to remote areas. Uncover CRA Exploration's legacy in Australia's mining history and the remarkable discoveries that set the stage for future endeavors. Join the adventure of innovation and exploration in an era defined by audacity.

Andrew Shook, a seasoned expert in technology and innovation within major mining firms like BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto, shares his insights on the industry's need for change. He argues that innovation isn't just optional; it's essential for profitability and sustainability. Shook discusses the challenges of adopting new technologies amidst market uncertainties and highlights the transformative potential of automation. He also emphasizes the importance of AI and data science in shaping the future of mining and the necessity for evolving educational programs to meet these demands.

David Kingston, leader of the adventurous Rover Boys, shares wild tales from his geological explorations. Hear about their unconventional methods, like using whiskey as a lion repellent and smoking camel dung. He reflects on the camaraderie and resilience of his team while navigating treacherous landscapes. Kingston also discusses the dramatic shift from onshore to offshore oil exploration, highlighting how technology is shaping the future of the industry. His insights merge humor and history, providing a fascinating glimpse into the life of a modern-day explorer.

Dan Olberg, an exploration geologist with a passion for adventure, shares his insights on the exciting yet challenging world of exploration. He dives into the concept of 'wanderlust' and its pull on adventurers. With personal stories from working in the Amazon, he highlights the importance of local collaboration and mentorship. Dan also discusses the balance of a FIFO lifestyle, emphasizing the sacrifices made for family and the joys of cultural immersion. His experiences showcase the thrill of travel and the deep connections formed along the way.

It is 1987. As a university student, you show up for your first day of work and are told "you have to leave, you cannot stay here". Why? "Because you are a girl and girls don't work in mines". Does this seem a little far fetched? Well this is how Alex Atkins started her career in mining.

Alan Moore, a young Australian geologist, heads to a remote, inhospitable part of SW Pakistan to explore for copper. Along the way, he teams up with Saad Husain, a local Pakistani, that becomes his ever present project manager. This is their story and how their work led to the discovery of the Reko Diq deposit. But...it is not your typical discovery story. It is much more than that.