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Mining industry

Unlocking North West Queensland's Mineral Wealth

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A convoy of trucks is currently surveying 840km of the north west region in a bid to uncover untapped mineral stores for a potential new mine. A $4.5 million seismic survey is underway, using low-frequency soundwaves to map potential deposits of copper and zinc beneath the earth's surface. The data will be used to identify areas of untapped deposits and provide a head start for the "next wave of mining wealth". This comes as the future of the Mount Isa copper smelter hangs in the balance, with the state government investing $5.1m towards targeted geoscientific activities across the state.

Key Takeaways:

  • A convoy of trucks is surveying 840km of the north west region as part of the Boodjamulla-Croydon Deep Seismic program, a collaboration between the Geological Survey of Queensland and Geoscience Australia.
  • The program aims to uncover untapped mineral stores for a potential new mine, with a focus on copper and zinc deposits.
  • The seismic survey uses low-frequency soundwaves to map potential deposits beneath the earth's surface.
  • Geoscientists will use the data to identify areas of untapped deposits and inform government and industry decision-making.
  • The program builds on the state government's focus on uncovering new mining opportunities, with this year's budget investment of $5.1m towards targeted geoscientific activities.
  • The data and interpretations from the survey will be freely available, giving rock experts a deeper understanding of the region's geological potential.
  • North west Queensland has world-class metal and mineral deposits, with the Crisafulli government providing industry with the tools needed to deliver new mining projects and create more jobs.
  • The program will guide future critical mining exploration activities and help unlock the resources needed for a cleaner and stronger future.

Statistics:

  • The seismic survey covers 840km of territory in the north west region.
  • The program involves a $4.5 million investment for the seismic survey.
  • The state government has invested $5.1m towards targeted geoscientific activities across the state.
  • The data and interpretations from the survey will be freely available.

Sources:

  • Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last
  • Geoscience Australia Chief Executive Officer Melissa Harris
  • Geological Survey of Queensland
  • Geoscience Australia

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