Double-barred finch family
Fauna and Flora at QMag's mine site with Dr John McGrath Part 1: Double-barred finch
Whilst we actively mine magnesite at our Kunwarara Mine, a plethora of birds, large to small, live and feed in the tropical dry grassland, shrub land and open woodland terrain adjacent to the mine pits.
In this pic a juvenile double-barred finch (below) is making use of an old windmill at the Yaamba Mine site to have a drink of water with it’s parents. It is enjoyable knowing that whilst we dig up magnesite these owl-faced birds and many others thrive and call the mine their home.
Double-barred finches (Taeniopygia bichenovii) are small, measuring no more than 12cm and weighing a mere 7-10g or about the same as a 20 cent coin. Don’t let size fool you though as they gregariously zoom around in groups of up to 40 individuals before foraging on the ground for seeds and insects including termites and fly puppa.
Anyone who works outdoors in the Australian summer should appreciate their efforts to keep fly numbers down!
They live up to 6 years old and lay 4-6 eggs per clutch in nests built in grass, bushes or low trees, even roof eaves near wasp nests. Young leave the nest when 2-3 weeks old and are fed by the adults for another 3 weeks or so.
They’re never far from water (something we have lots of) and you can recognise them in flight as they bounce around in flight or feed on the ground in groups with a soft fluting song.
State of Origin - QLD vs NSW
Ah, the State of Origin—where New South Wales and Queensland go head-to-head in a rivalry fiercer than a kangaroo on caffeine! It's the time of year when families are divided, friendships are put on hold, and everyone suddenly becomes an expert on rugby.
From our Ore to Your Door - Episode 3 - Mine Planning
With the geological models from drilling and sampling, we create the Kunwarara mine plan. This plan identifies the most suitable, quality magnesite available in sufficient quantities to feed the beneficiation plant.
From our Ore to Your Door - Episode 2 - Drilling and Sampling
Drilling campaigns are designed to meet the requirements of the mining schedule.
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.
Careers Expo
Last week, QMAG had the opportunity to be a part of the Capricorn MEGA Careers Expo held at CQUniversity.
QMAG Milestones
Last week QMAG eagerly celebrated the milestones that our fellow team members achieved at our mining operations in Kunwarara.
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