D&D SEP – NOV 2023
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WOODSIDE TO SELL 10% SCARBOROUGH INTEREST TO LNG JAPAN
DDH1 AND PERENTI TO CREATE THE ASX’S LEADING CONTRACT MINING SERVICES GROUP
CATERPILLAR’S FIRST ELECTRIC LARGE MINING TRUCK
AOG ENERGY 2023
Woodside has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Kansai Electric Power Co. to enable studies of a potential carbon, capture and storage (CCS) value chain between Japan and Australia. Under the MOU, KEPCO plans to research the capture of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted from its thermal power plants and its transport to Australia. Woodside is progressing CCS projects in Australia and will conduct the study of injection and storage of CO2 delivered from Japan as well as the potential production of Synthetic Methane (e-methane). The MOU outlines a generic value chain study, that will consider the end to end technical and commercial factors with the aim of progressing a future CCS value chain between Japan and Australia. Mineral Resources Limited has confirmed entering into an Implementation Agreement with the Deed Administrators of Alita Resources Limited regarding the proposed acquisition of the Bald Hill lithium mine in Western Australia. A wholly owned subsidiary of Alita owns and operates the Bald Hill mine. Alita is subject to a Deed of Company Arrangement under which Austroid Corporation proposed to acquire the Bald Hill mine. This transaction was blocked by the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) in July 2023. MinRes’ successful acquisition of the Bald Hill mine will ensure that the mine is being operated by an experienced Australian ASX listed lithium miner, and any profits are generated and taxes and royalties paid in Australia to the benefit of Australian taxpayers.
Earyl in September 2023 Saudi Arabia announced they will extend the 1 million barrels per day voluntary oil cuts until December 2023. Russia also announced the extension of its voluntary oil export cuts of 300,000 bpd until the end of the year. These moves will significantly tighten the global oil market and can only result in higher oil prices worldwide. The decisions surprised oil markets, and prices reacted strongly and suddenly following the announcements. ICE Brent front month jumped from $88.5 per barrel to over $90.5 per barrel, the highest price since November 2022.
When it was revealed last year that Saudi Arabia was considering trading its oil with China in the yuan, it was no small matter or minor shift. Many analysts at the time played it down as merely a symbolic gesture, a tactic to pressure the US or send a political message. At Davos in January this year, Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan revealed Riyadh’s willingness to trade oil in yuan and a variety of other currencies. Saudi Arabia has not been the only country to do this as India, Pakistan, and UAE have also struck deals with Russia or China to pay for oil or other commodities in their various respective local currencies. Iraq was the latest to announce that it plans to regulate foreign trade from China in yuan.
The global GDP growth forecast for 2023 has been maintained at 2.4% by Oxford Economics. However, China’s GDP growth forecast has been revised downwards by 0.4 percentage points to 5.1% due to slower-than-expected economic growth in the second quarter. Global inflation is expected to gradually ease to 5.9% in 2023 as the impact of tight monetary policies take effect, as well as weaker commodity prices and easing of supply chain issues.
On behalf of the Australian Government, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced $20.9 million for Wollongong-based startup Hysata to demonstrate their next generation hydrogen electrolyser technology at commercial scale. Hysata will develop and test a 5 MW unit at their new manufacturing facility in Port Kembla. The electrolyser array will then be installed in situ for further testing and validation before it is relocated to Queensland. Queensland governmentowned power company Stanwell Corporation is backing the project with $3 million, as well as providing the site and facilities for the field deployment of the electrolyser. The demonstration unit will be installed adjacent to the Stanwell Power Station near Rockhampton, Queensland.
The G20 Energy Transitions Ministers’ Meeting took place on July 22, 2023. The G20 energy ministers met under the theme ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’. While consensus was reached on the majority of issues discussed, the meeting did not culminate in a comprehensive agreement on all fronts. Consequently, a joint communique was not issued. Nonetheless, the energy ministers did release an Outcome and Chair’s Summary document, agreeing on 22 out of 29 paragraphs.
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This year’s exhibition was an incredible opportunity for exhibitors to showcase innovations, technology and solutions that play an important role in the clean energy future. The theme of collaboration continued at the 2023 AOG Energy event which had 6805 total visitors from 48 countries, 268 exhibitors with 30% international exhibitors and 178 speakers. Attendees explored specialised industry zones on the exhibition floor showcasing the latest in Energy Transition, Drilling & Completions, Subsea & Marine, Automation & Digital Technology, Asset Integrity and Health & Safety.
The 2023 Perth AOG Energy conference positioned Western Australia, and the nation, as a global leader in the rapid development of new technologies needed to support the energy transition.
Alongside the show floor AOG Energy 2023 was a nexus of insight and connections, with sold-out networking functions, four jam-packed conference streams, including expert analysis and keynotes.
Federal Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Madeleine King, has emphasised her government’s commitment to Australia’s energy future. Delivering a keynote address at the 2023 AOG Energy event, Minister King began with an acknowledgement of the past and Western Australia’s resource sector’s history of coming to the nations’ economic rescue, seen most recently during the COVID-19 pandemic, before focusing firmly on our energy future.
An audience of mostly energy industry representatives heard Minister King discuss the significant opportunities ahead in the sector including in carbon capture and storage and decommissioning oil and gas operations. “Carbon capture and storage is a key technology for lowering emissions” Minister King said pointing out that CCS should not be viewed as exclusively for use by the oil and gas sector but can also be applied to hard to abate sectors such as the cement industry.
AOG Energy returned to Perth in March 2023, back to full strength for the first time since 2020, bringing together the global supply chain for three packed days to set the direction of the new energy future, drive meaningful business collaborations and enjoy unmissable networking amongst peers.Madeline King MP RTS Address
Western Australia‘s Premier Roger Cook has highlighted the need for collaboration and the right mix of energy sources as Western Australia aspires to play a leading role in moving towards a cleaner energy future.
Speaking at the opening session of the 2023 AOG Energy event, at that time, Western Australia’s Deputy Premier Cook said Western Australia boasted several competitive advantages such as an abundance of natural renewable resources, excellent track record of large project execution and existing infrastructure. Mr Cook believes these advantages, combined with the stability of the State’s environment, social and regulatory environment, skilled workforce and long standing international relationships, can place the State in a unique position to be a global leader in clean energy.
Mr Cook also acknowledged the opportunity brings challenges, a view supported by fellow speakers Mark Hatfield, Managing Director of Chevron Australia, and Mike Price, Acting Executive Vice President of Australian Operations for Woodside Energy.
AOG Energy Commercial Director, Bill Hare, said that while societal changes may have transformed the face of the sector, the broadening in the focus of the event was driven by the industry itself. “AOG Energy began in the early 1980s as the Petroleum Technology Australia conference and has adapted to build on this history while evolving with the massive disruption the sector has experienced over that time.
“A lot of our existing exhibitors and presenters were getting in touch and wanting to showcase their clean energy capabilities like oil and gas subsea service providers servicing offshore wind, for example, so it was a natural progression to involve new and future energy capability in the event. Our stakeholders are diversifying and so are we,” Mr Hare said.
“We are excited to see what the future of energy will be, but it is also important to connect the existing players and suppliers in the oil and gas sectors.
“AOG Energy is first and foremost a trade show and participants want an event that reflects their industry. It’s all about showcasing current local capabilities while exploring future opportunities,” explained Mr Hare.
Mr Hare said he was most excited about the return to a full program for 2023. “The pandemic really restricted us for the last two years – we hosted a local-only event in 2021 and were forced to cancel in 2022. This year we are back to a full program with international speakers and attendees returning.
Industry decision-makers who attend AOG Energy every year to source the latest innovations, and establish connections with engineers, manufacturers, design, contractors, logistics specialists, procurement and transportation service providers over three days of dedicated networking events and across the show floor were not disappointed.
Leading distributors and manufacturers that are driving the industry forward showcased the latest products and innovations. Thought leaders and technical specialists at the free-to-attend conference sessions held in theatres on the exhibition floor covered topics ranging from industry supply, collaboration, subsea, hydrogen, renewables and more.
Event Sponsors were; Principal Sponsor - WA Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Operator Partners - Woodside Energy and Chevron. Technology Partner - NERA, Host City; City of Perth, Destination Sponsor - BUSINESS EVENTS PERTH and Decommissioning Partner - CODA.
For over 40 years, AOG Energy has bought the entire supply chain together in the oil and gas epicentre in Australia - Perth. Perth is home to major Australian operators, suppliers and projects. The support of the local Western Australia government continues to drive WA as a global leader.
Exhibitor and attendee safety always has been, and always will be the top priority. Organizers will always ensure practices that give attendees and staff the confidence to maintain social distance while conducting business. Planning is constantly underway with venues, suppliers, contractors, and local and state governments to ensure that AOG Energy and all of their future exhibitions will be delivered in a safe and controlled environment, within COVID-19 government guidelines.
AOG Energy returns to the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre in March 2024. For information about AOG Energy 2024 visit AOGEXPO.COM.AU
Woodside Energy has reached in-principle agreement with the Australian Workers’ Union and the Electrical Trades Union and other bargaining representatives on an enterprise agreement covering employees on its North West Shelf offshore platforms, supporting the ongoing provision of safe and secure energy supply to Western Australian and international gas customers.
In-principle agreement was reached on all claims relating to remuneration and other terms and conditions of employment. The next steps will be for the enterprise agreement to be finalised and then voted on by employees and approved by the Fair Work Commission.
The unions have committed to not filing a Notice of Protected Industrial Action while that process is underway.
Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill acknowledged the effort from all parties through the bargaining process and said the company was pleased to have reached in-principle agreement. “We will continue to engage in respectful and constructive dialogue with all of our people as we work together to finalise the agreement and maintain safe and reliable supply of energy to our customers,” she said.
Independent review to determine the effectiveness of Mining Rehabilitation Fund
Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston has announced Marsden Jacob Associates will review the Mining Rehabilitation Fund (MRF) to ensure it continues to meet its objectives and sufficient financial reserves are available.
The Mining Rehabilitation Fund has successfully restored a number of abandoned mines. The State Government uses the MRF if a mine operator is unable to meet their rehabilitation obligations and the site is declared abandoned. Marsden Jacob Associates will consult with a wide range of stakeholders having completed an MRF evaluation in 2018.
Western Australia Premier Roger Cook recently addressed the Western Australia-Indonesia Energy Forum while on the Invest and Trade WA Indonesia Connect Roadshow.
Outcomes from the forum include a commitment to ongoing engagement with Australia’s Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre, which will support future collaboration in battery and critical minerals supply chains.
WA representatives and KADIN (Indonesian Chamber of Commerce) discussed the opportunity for WA to support Indonesia with its ambitions to be a global leader in electrical vehicle manufacturing through mid-stream processing in Western Australia.
It follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between WA and KADIN in February to support cooperation in developing a critical minerals supply chain and promote investment and collaboration to develop value-adding critical minerals and battery industries.
On behalf of the Australian Government, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency has today opened the Regional Microgrids Program, with $125 million in funding allocated to develop and deploy microgrid technologies across regional and remote communities.
The new Program will allocate $75 million for microgrid projects in First Nations communities.
Electricity provision in remote First Nations communities is often heavily reliant on diesel which is unreliable, expensive and emissions intensive.
The First Nations Community Microgrids Stream aims to deliver cleaner, cheaper and more reliable energy and empower First Nations communities to participate in their electricity supply arrangements and the development of energy infrastructure.
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Woodside has established a strategic relationship with LNG Japan which involves three elements: equity in the Scarborough Joint Venture, potential LNG offtake and collaboration on opportunities in new energy.
Woodside has entered into a sale and purchase agreement with LJ Scarborough Pty Ltd for the sale of a 10% non-operating participating interest in the Scarborough Joint Venture.
The purchase price is US$500 million, subject to adjustments. LNG Japan will reimburse Woodside for its share of expenditure for the Scarborough project from the Transaction effective date of 1 January 2022.
On completion of the Transaction, expected in the first quarter of 2024, the estimated total consideration comprising the purchase price, reimbursed expenditure and escalation is approximately US$880 million.
Completion of the Transaction is subject to conditions precedent including Foreign Investment Review Board approval, National Offshore Petroleum Titles Administrator approvals and Western Australian Government approvals.
As part of the broader strategic relationship, Woodside and LNG Japan Corporation have entered into a non-binding heads of agreement for the sale and purchase of 12 LNG cargoes per year (approximately 0.9 million tonnes per annum) for 10 years commencing in 2026.
Woodside has also entered into non-binding agreements to collaborate with Sumitomo Corporation and Sojitz Corporation on global opportunities in new energy which could include ammonia, hydrogen, carbon capture and storage (CCS) and carbon management technology.
Following completion, Woodside will hold a 90% interest in the Scarborough Joint Venture and remain as operator. Scarborough gas will be processed at the Pluto LNG facility, where Woodside is currently constructing Pluto Train 2. Woodside is also operator of the Pluto Train 2 Joint Venture and holds a 51% participating interest.
1 LJ Scarborough Pty Ltd is currently a wholly owned subsidiary of LNG Japan Corporation, which is a 50:50 joint venture between Sumitomo Corporation and Sojitz Corporation.
Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill welcomed LNG Japan to the Scarborough Joint Venture. “The support of LNG Japan is testament to the quality of the Scarborough project. It also underscores the ongoing demand from Japanese buyers for new supplies of gas and the role of gas in supporting Japan’s energy security.
“Our new energy agreements with Sumitomo and Sojitz provide further opportunities for us to work closely together on our shared decarbonisation and energy security ambitions.
“Scarborough will be an important source of gas for both the Western Australian and international markets, supporting domestic jobs and providing taxation revenue for the State and Federal Governments. “We look forward to working with LNG Japan to deliver this world-class project,” she said.
LNG Japan CEO Mr Kyo Onojima said he was excited to form the strategic relationship between LNG Japan and Woodside. “We are very pleased to join the Scarborough Joint Venture and
are looking forward to finalising the LNG offtake agreement and exploring business opportunities in the new energy sector,” he said.
Western Australia’s Premier Roger Cook has welcomed Woodside’s newly established strategic partnership with LNG Japan.
The strategic relationship will include LNG Japan purchasing a 10 per cent interest in the Scarborough Joint Venture, a potential LNG offtake and collaboration opportunities in new energy.
The agreement will also facilitate the export of 0.9 million tonnes of LNG from the Scarborough Joint Venture per annum for 10 years commencing in 2026.
Woodside has also announced entering non-binding agreements to collaborate with Sumitomo Corporation and Sojitz Corporation on new energy opportunities including ammonia, hydrogen, carbon capture and storage (CCS) and carbon management technology.
Woodside will retain a 90 per cent stake in the Scarborough Joint Venture and remain as operator. The announcement will support the development of carbon capture, utilisation and storage in Western Australia, which is highlighted as a key economic growth opportunity in Future State: Accelerating Diversify WA.
The completion of the transaction is subject to State and Commonwealth Government approvals.
Western Australia’s Premier Roger Cook said: “Congratulations to Woodside and Japan LNG for entering a new strategic partnership, which will not only see increased LNG exports from WA, but also establish further cooperation on new energy opportunities.
“This strategic partnership will further support Western Australia’s energy transition, by increasing investment in technologies such as carbon capture and storage and is part of economic diversification.
“This announcement reinforces the increasing international interest in Western Australia’s valuable resources and their confidence to invest in WA which in turn supports jobs and the strengthens our economy.”
The Scarborough Joint Venture comprises the Scarborough field and associated offshore and subsea infrastructure. The Scarborough field is located approximately 375 km off the coast of Western Australia and the reservoir contains less than 0.1% carbon dioxide.
The Scarborough project will include the installation of a floating production unit with eight wells drilled in the initial phase and thirteen wells drilled over the life of the Scarborough field. The gas will be transported for processing at Pluto LNG through a new trunkline of approximately 430 km in length. The final investment decision was made in November 2021 and first LNG cargo is targeted for 2026.
LJ Scarborough Pty Ltd is currently a wholly owned subsidiary of LNG Japan Corporation, which is a 50:50 joint venture between Sumitomo Corporation and Sojitz Corporation.
Sumitomo Corporation (“SC”) is a leading Fortune 500 global trading and business investment company with 129 locations (Japan:20, Overseas:109) in 66 countries and regions. SC’s core business areas include six business units: Metal Products; Transportation & Construction Systems; Infrastructure; Media & Digital; Living Related & Real Estate; and Mineral Resources, Energy, Chemical & Electronics, and one initiative: Energy Innovation.
Sojitz Corporation consists of approximately 400 subsidiaries and affiliates located in Japan and throughout the world, developing wide-ranging general trading company operations in a multitude of countries and regions.
Images Source: Woodside Energy
Caterpillar Inc. has announced a successful demonstration of its first battery electric 793 large mining truck and a significant investment to transform its Arizona-based proving ground into a sustainable testing and validation hub of the future.
Caterpillar completed development of its first battery electric 793 prototype with support from key mining customers participating in Caterpillar’s Early Learner program. Participants of the program with definitive electrification agreements include BHP, Freeport-McMoRan, Newmont Corporation, Rio Tinto and Teck Resources Limited.
“Our global team came together to develop this battery truck at an accelerated pace to help our customers meet their sustainability commitments,” said Resource Industries Group President Denise Johnson. “This demonstration is a significant milestone, and we are excited for these trucks to get to work at customers’ sites around the world in the near future.”
The Early Learner program launched in 2021 and focuses on accelerating the development and validation of Caterpillar’s battery electric trucks at participating customers’ sites.
This approach supports the individual commitments each Early Learner participant has made to reduce and eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from their operations.
A primary objective of the program is for Caterpillar to collaborate more closely with its customers as the industry undergoes transformational change through the energy transition.
Caterpillar early learner customers attended the demonstration of the company’s first battery electric 793 mining truck.Early Learner customers came together to witness a live demonstration of Caterpillar’s prototype battery truck on a seven-kilometre (4.3-mile) course.
During the event, Caterpillar monitored over 1,100 data channels, gathering 110,000 data points per second, to validate simulation and engineering modelling capabilities.
Fully loaded to its rated capacity, the truck achieved a top speed of 60 km/h (37.3 mph). The loaded truck traveled one kilometer (0.62 mile) up a 10% grade at 12 km/h (7.5 mph).
The truck also performed a one kilometer (0.62 mile) run on a 10% downhill grade, capturing the energy that would normally be lost to heat and regenerating that energy to the battery. Upon completing the entire run, the truck maintained enough battery energy to perform additional complete cycles.
“The transformation of the Tucson Proving Ground allows Caterpillar to demonstrate our energy transition commitments and serve as a stronger advisor to customers as we navigate the changes together.
We know it will take an integrated, site-level solution for miners to achieve their carbon-reduction goals, and we’re here to help as they redefine the way they mine for generations to come,” emphasized Johnson.
The prototype truck was built at Caterpillar’s Tucson Proving Ground, located in Green Valley, Arizona. In support of the energy transition, Caterpillar is investing to transform the proving ground into a working, sustainable “mine site of the future” by installing and utilizing a variety of renewable energy sources. The objective is to implement the same sustainable solutions mining companies will use at their own operations to learn firsthand what it takes to run an electrified mine site and effectively support customers through the changes.
As part of the site transformation, the company will install the latest advancements in sustainability technology, including green hydrogen production, natural gas and 100% hydrogen reciprocating engine power generation, fuel cell power generation and expanded energy storage systems.
The site will also leverage a variety of renewable power sources, including wind, solar and hydrogen, capable of powering the facility and its products as they become electrified.
The transformation of the facility will also serve as a learning platform for optimizing charging and energy management integration.
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All States and Territories in Australia have legal requirements related to protecting biodiversity values and Aboriginal heritage. Rules differ in each jurisdiction as to the threshold of harm permitted before it becomes an offence, magnitude of penalties, the defenses available if harm is actualised and approval requirements for unavoidable impacts.
Potential impacts to Aboriginal cultural heritage and biodiversity values present an approval risk in Australia and even approved impacts that are contrary to community expectations can harm corporate reputation. Poor environmental and cultural heritage management can impede the development of resources due to reputational concerns or ‘fit and proper person’ considerations.
This article aims to outline best practices for exploration activities to ensure they meet regulatory requirements and community expectations for protecting ecological and Aboriginal cultural values.
It is imperative that proponents of exploration companies are aware of their legal requirements related to environmental and cultural heritage protection, such as obligations under legislation and approvals (including tenements).
In most cases, offences are strict liability offences and corporations are vicariously liable for the actions of employees and contractors in most cases. It is therefore imperative that legal requirements are communicated down through the workforce (as appropriate) to ensure that all persons involved with undertaking exploration activities are aware of their obligations. Legal advice should be obtained if it is unclear how certain requirements relate to specific the activities.
Legal requirements depend on the potential biodiversity or Aboriginal cultural values which exist in a prospective exploration area and how proposed activities may impact on these.
Existing mapping of biodiversity values and Aboriginal Cultural heritage sites is a good start to identifying what constraints may apply however it is essential to understand the limitations of this mapping. Aboriginal cultural sites and threatened species mapping only identifies sites/individuals that have been recorded and may not show precise locations. Mapping of cultural heritage sites will also typically not contain information about intangible cultural values or significant cultural landscapes and these features may be of higher cultural sensitivity than archaeological sites. Similarly, vegetation mapping may not have been ground truthed. Government and private mapping should, as best practice, only be used as an indication that mapped cultural sites and biodiversity attributes are potentially present. Regional scale mapping can provide additional guidance on constraints that may be present.
The absence of mapped sensitive features cannot be relied upon as evidence of sensitive features not being present
Potential ecological constraints for exploration activities can only be identified by field surveys with appropriately qualified and/ or experienced ecologists and, for some species, confirming the likely presence or absence may require surveys in specific seasonal conditions. Where an exploration activity will impact on native vegetation, and will not be undertaken within areas of existing disturbance, a site inspection of proposed disturbance areas by an ecologist represents best practice. The need for species specific seasonal surveys should be guided by the advice of an ecologist considering risks presented by the proposed activities. Reasons for not undertaking specific surveys should be clearly documented and justified.
Some jurisdictions have codes of practice for due diligence requirements for Aboriginal Cultural heritage (e.g., NSW). Compliance with these codes is a defense against prosecution for subsequent harm in specific instances. However proponents need to explicitly follow the requirements and often exceptions will only apply to previously cropped or heavily disturbed land.
Even if a field survey for Aboriginal cultural constraints is not required, due diligence inspections are considered best practice.
Site inspections by archaeologists will identify most Aboriginal artefacts and physical sites (e.g., scarred trees, grinding grooves and engravings) however input from cultural knowledge holders is required to identify the presence of sensitive cultural values. While active involvement with Aboriginal groups may not be legally required, it represents best practice and has the following benefits:
• identifies areas of cultural importance and identify intangible values that may not be apparent to an archaeologist
• helps foster trusting relationships with Aboriginal groups and provides mitigation or even a potential legal defense if the activity does impact a sensitive site.
Input from Aboriginal stakeholders need not involve field visits to all potential exploration sites however involving Aboriginal representatives in due diligence inspections is considered best practice for any activities involving more than minimal ground disturbance (e.g., site inspections would not be necessary for field reconnaissance surveys by a geologist). At a minimum, relevant Aboriginal parties or organisations (Traditional Owners where possible) should be consulted about the proposed exploration activities and the proposed areas to identify any significant cultural matters that should be considered in the project design. This engagement should provide opportunities to capture gender-based site sensitivities. Aboriginal knowledge holders may wish the precise nature of cultural sensitivities to remain confidential. This should be respected for areas or sites where Aboriginal people identify significant cultural values however it will be important to understand how exploration activities could impact these areas to understand what, if any project design changes can be made to avoid impacts.
Preferred exploration sites and routes for accessing these sites should be clearly marked out prior to any field survey to define the extent of the potential impact areas. Site boundaries should be identified by GPS coordinates however delineation of potential disturbance areas by markers or tape provides greater certainty that the areas inspected are the extent of proposed
impacts. Attendance by a geologist or other project team member at the field surveys is recommended as this enables site layouts to be adjusted or alternative sites to be identified and surveyed in a timely manner if the initially surveyed areas contain ecological or heritage constraints.
If biodiversity or cultural constraints are identified, the activity should be relocated to avoid impacts. If avoidance isn’t possible, these constraints must be considered in any necessary approvals assessment process. Where sensitive features are avoided through site relocation or project redesign, the areas of sensitivity should be recorded and mapped to inform future constraints processes and avoid future inadvertent impacts. Where activities are close to identified high value areas, the views of Aboriginal parties should be obtained and considered in the final design.
Where impacts to Aboriginal sites or cultural places are unavoidable, Government approval is likely necessary prior to the works beginning. The risk of significant corporate reputational harm should be considered where potential impacts to significant cultural values are possible.
Prior to undertaking the exploration activity and disturbing the area, employees must be made fully aware of the extent and nature of allowable disturbance. Identification of exclusion zones and clear delineation of ‘approved’ disturbance areas through fencing/markers is strongly recommended.
The above provides an outline of best practice approaches. While these processes could add additional costs to exploration programs, they can mitigate against costly and lengthy approval delays and reduce risk of legal action in the event of inadvertent impacts. There are also potentially significant benefits to future approvals processes for resource development as a result of developing respectful working relationships with local Aboriginal people.
Heritage clearance with Nyalpa Pirniku native title claim group for exploration at the Golden Chimney Prospect, on E40/378 owned by Catalina Resources Ltd
The Australian air charter market has a new entrant. The decision to establish Aerlink means an intentional step away from leaning on the reputation of Hevilift, founded on over 25 years of providing specialized heavy lift air capacity in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Hevilift continues its position of dominance in South-East Asia, but Aerlink sees the accomplished Australian team pivot to a dedicated ad hoc and contract charter focus.
Headquartered in Brisbane, Aerlink has well-resourced operations, crewing, in-house maintenance, and ground handling services. It is already poised for growth beyond its bases in Perth (PER), Brisbane (BNE), and Townsville (TSV). The airline is the only Australian operator of the Avions de Transport Regional (ATR) aircraft type, recognised as the world’s leading regional aircraft; a cost-effective and environmentally friendly plane fast finding favour with airlines worldwide. Aerlink operates six 68-passenger ATR72-500s, one 48-passenger ATR42-500, and two ATR42-300 freighters.
“Like us, our clients care about their people and are proactive in taking measures aimed at enhancing safety and decarbonization,” says Aerlink CEO Shane Cyr. “Our clients make a considered and responsible choice to fly with us. Our ATR 72s offer class-leading seated cabin space equal to that of an Airbus A320-200 and internal noise levels comparable to a regional jet. If transporting less than 86 passengers over a distance anywhere up to 500 nautical miles (926km), we cannot be beaten in terms of lowest fuel burn and related emissions”.
Aerlink’s long-term blue-chip client list includes industry leaders like Rio Tinto, Thiess, Covalent, Byrnecut Group, Ora Banda Gold and Chinova. The airline also regularly operates charter flights for the Australian Defence Force and Travel West, among other
entities. Collaborating with Commercial Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) facilitates essential supplies to indigenous communities like Doomadgee and Kowanyama, especially during the sixmonth-long wet season.
Shorter travel distances amplify Aerlink’s emissions savings per journey. Over 300 nautical miles (555.6 kilometres), the ATR72 consumes 30% less fuel than rival turboprops and 45% less than regional jets (ATR, 2023). On an annual basis, choosing Aerlink over a competitor’s jet could prevent up to 4,400 tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to operating 1000+ mine-spec 4x4 light vehicles (Dept of Climate Change, 2023).
While the fleet’s location can change subject to client demand, there are presently ATR72-500s based in Perth, Brisbane and Townsville. ATR42-300 Freighters are based in Brisbane and Cairns. Aerlink regularly fly into airports such as Broome (BME), Kalgoorlie (KGI), Mackay (MKY), Moranbah (MOV), Cairns (CNS), Doomadgee (DMD), and Pormpuraaw (EDR).
“Aerlink’s credibility is pivotal for attracting top-tier staff,” says Shane, President at Canada’s Universal Helicopters, before moving to Australia and taking up the CEO’s role. “They equip us to offer our clients full-service solutions with enhanced control, accountability, and notably quicker turnaround times. When our clients need us, we exist to take their challenge on as our own.”
AERLINK – AUSTRALIAN COMMITMENT TO CONNECTING PEOPLE AND PURPOSE Air Charter | FIFO Charter | Freight & Cargo | Tailored ServicesMental health is becoming widely acknowledged as an important component in business stability, workforce and even productivity. 20% of Australians will experience symptoms of mental illness each year. The Black Dog Institute does important work in this space.
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DDH1 Limited and Perenti Group have announced that they have entered into a binding Scheme Implementation Agreement (SIA) under which DDH1 will combine with Perenti to create the ASX’s leading contract mining services group (Proposed Transaction).
contract mining services group. This represents a transformative opportunity for all DDH1 stakeholders, enabling them to participate in the additional upside that comes from being part of an enlarged and dynamic mining services company. The strategic fit between Perenti and DDH1 is exceptional, and our combined expertise will enhance our value offering to clients and employees alike. With a shared commitment to sustainability, innovation, safety, and service excellence, we are well positioned to continue growing our businesses. This transaction is a testament to our dedication to driving growth, providing enhanced liquidity, and delivering value for our shareholders.”
Under the terms of the Proposed Transaction, DDH1 shareholders will receive for each DDH1 share held $0.1238 cash plus 0.7111 Perenti shares (Standard Consideration).
DDH1 shareholders will also be offered an ability to elect maximum scrip or maximum cash consideration alternatives (subject to scale back arrangements based on a total available cash pool of $50 million). DDH1 shareholders will own ~29% of the combined entity, with the combined entity expected to realise material synergies of $22 million post-tax P&L synergies (FY24 impact at full run rate).
DDH1’s Board unanimously recommends shareholders vote in favour of the Proposed Transaction, subject to no superior proposal emerging for DDH1 and the Independent Expert concluding that the Scheme is in the best interest of shareholders. The Independent Directors of DDH1 have also separately met and recommend the Scheme.
Directors of DDH1 controlling 13.1% of DDH1 shares intend to vote in favour of the Proposed Transaction, subject to no superior proposal emerging for DDH1 and the Independent Expert concluding that the Scheme is in the best interest of shareholders.
Commenting on the Proposed Transaction, DDH1 Managing Director & CEO Sy Van Dyk said: “Today, we are excited to announce the Proposed Transaction between DDH1 and Perenti, paving the way for the creation of the ASX’s leading
Commenting on the Proposed Transaction, Perenti Managing Director & CEO Mark Norwell said: “Perenti has a long and proud history in drilling and understands the structural attractiveness of the market from our Ausdrill heritage and Barminco Diamond Drilling business. The long term outlook for a sustained production cycle needs increased drilling spend to ensure mining reserves are not diminished, and drilling is becoming more complex, resulting in larger programs and demand for specialist services. DDH1 is a highly respected tier 1 global operator, with significant capabilities across a complete range of specialised surface and underground drilling services, that are complementary to our existing clients and service offering. We look forward to the DDH1 team joining our group and continuing to deliver market leading solutions for our customers.”
The combination of DDH1 and Perenti will result in a world-class mining services group, offering comprehensive drilling services, contract mining, technology solutions and other mining services across the globe. DDH1’s established brands, including DDH1 Drilling, Ranger Drilling, Strike Drilling, and Swick Mining Services, will retain their identities within the newly formed Perenti-owned Drilling Services Division. This division will also incorporate Perenti’s Ausdrill drilling services business. Under the leadership of Sy Van Dyk, the newly formed Drilling Services Division will drive enhanced value offerings, while maintaining successful branding and a customer centric focus. As a result of the Proposed Transaction, Perenti will become the #1 ASX listed contract mining services company.
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Central banks bought a net 55t of gold in June following three straight months of selling. The Central Bank of Türkiye’s return to net buying in June helped the trend in central bank demand remain steadfast. Following three months of net sales, central banks reported net buying again in June 2023.
*Data as of 30 June 2023 where available
Reported net purchases from central banks totalled 55t, the first month of sizeable global net buying since February.
As in recent months, activity from the Central Bank of Türkiye (CBRT) was pivotal to the global total. Having been a significant net seller between March and May in order to meet local demand, it swung back to net buying in June, adding 11t to its official reserves. The CBRT’s total gold reserves stood at 440t at the end of June (29% of total reserves).
The bank’s activity underlined and clarified the continuing trend in central bank gold demand. Six central banks added gold during the month, with only two notable sellers. Among the buyers, the People’s Bank of China was the largest.
It added 21t to its gold reserves during June, the eighth consecutive month of purchases. Since it began reporting increases in November 2022, gold reserves have grown by 165t (+8%), of which 103t has been bought in 2023, making it the largest buyer y-t-d.
The National Bank of Poland (NBP) was another large purchaser in June, increasing its gold reserves by 14t. This is the third consecutive month of buying from the bank, which last year indicated that it planned to add 100t to its gold reserves.
4 The NBP has added 48t y-t-d, pushing its total gold holdings to 277t. Uzbekistan (8t), the Czech Republic (3t), Qatar (2t) and India (1t) were the other notable buyers in June.
At the time of writing, Kazakhstan and Singapore were the only significant (one tonne or more) sellers in June. Kazakhstan’s official gold reserves fell by 3t to 314t (56% of total reserves), with the bank indicating that more selling will likely occur before the end of the year.
5 More frequent buying and selling from banks that obtain gold from domestic sources, such as Kazakhstan, is not uncommon. The Monetary Authority of Singapore reduced its gold reserves by 1t during the month.
Author: Krishan Gopaul, Senior Analyst, EMEA World Gold Council Source: IMF IFS, respective central banks, World Gold CouncilBluewater Marine Refrigeration specialize in Marine, Recreational Vehicle and Caravan & Camper refrigeration and air conditioning servicing and repairs.
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In this 4th boat restoration article, we show before and after images of the Cockpit with new DECK ARMOUR premium designer boat flooring that made the Cockpit look new and feel more comfortable plus some engine maintenance work.
The Cockpit floor was white fibreglass and with white seats as well, I wanted to add some colour and a friend suggested I contact Troy at Deck Armour. This durable but soft underfoot flooring is custom designed from ethylene vinyl acetate foam (EVA) in Brisbane, Queensland and is UV stable, stain resistant and non-slip. Thanks to Troy, the Cockpit now looks better than new.
Both 8.1 Litre V8 Mercruiser petrol engines were running very rich and a little rough plus one engine was running a bit warm and would lose power after running for a short time. I was fortunate to meet Anthony from Bronco Marine in my yacht club carpark and he came to look at the engines that same day. After listening to them run he found that Air Idle Valves were not working correctly and he suggested that I change them (both were stuck open) and both water pump impellers. After a few hours replacing the parts, we took her out for a run and she had more power and both engines were running normally. She felt like a different boat! I highly recommend Bronco Marine.
I will get new front clears and a deck bed fitted, lift her out of the water to clean her hull and have her polished for our November 2023 edition, 5th boat restoration article. Please feel free to contact me at len.fretwell@diggingdrilling.com with any queries or suggestions. Article and Images: Len Fretwell
Bronco Marine has over 18 years’ experience in the marine industry, working with all the major brands, makes and models. We want to provide a better service, with fair prices and the best quality work. We aim to provide a more personal service, where you can understand what is being done to your boat, why it’s being done and how to prevent future problems, so you can enjoy trouble free boating.
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