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