By James Hyland
Sydney, Australia – November 2, 2023 – The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) in Sydney at the ICC entered its third day with a flourish, featuring an exciting mix of forward-thinking discussions, industry legends, and an initiative aimed at inspiring the mining leaders of tomorrow.
Inspiring the Next Generation
One of the most noteworthy events on Day 3 was the inclusion of 250 students from schools across New South Wales (NSW) through IMARC’s new NextGen program. This initiative aims to inspire the younger generation to consider careers in the mining and resources sector. These students had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the industry’s latest and most exciting technologies, providing them with hands-on experience and insights into the world of mining. The NextGen IMARC event featured a range of activities, including trying out Virtual Reality Headsets, ‘Gravitrax’ construction, ‘Snap Circuits’ (electronic circuit assembly), the ‘Turing Table’ (a marble-powered computer-building game), and, for the first time, hydrogen mini-car races. This initiative is vital in nurturing the future talent pipeline for the mining industry.
Exploring Gold’s Meaning with Idris Elba
Another highlight of Day 3 was an exclusive viewing of “Gold: A Journey with Idris Elba,” presented by the World Gold Council. Global star Idris Elba embarked on a journey to explore gold’s significance and its contribution to societies and economies worldwide. This captivating documentary delved into the cultural, economic, and historical aspects of gold, shedding light on its enduring allure.
Connecting Investors and Miners
IMARC’s primary focus has always been to facilitate connections between investors and miners. This year, the conference has already achieved remarkable success, with approximately 3,000 B2B meetings, representing a 50% increase from the previous year. These meetings are laying the foundation for what is anticipated to be a record number of deals struck during the conference, demonstrating the industry’s resilience and growth potential.
Day 3 featured a diverse range of sessions and discussions, including delving into the intersection of mining and space, participants explored how the mining industry can future-proof itself and capitalize on opportunities beyond our planet. A panel of esteemed “Industry Legends” reflected on the past, present, and future of mining, discussing the industry’s evolution and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The next generation of Mining Investors will focus on understanding the motivations and preferences of the next generation of mining investors, this session provided valuable insights into the changing landscape of mining finance.
Mining Pitch Battles by Mines and Money
The grand finale of the Mining Pitch Battles brought together a trio of impressive junior mining companies, each vying for recognition as industry leaders. Mako Gold Limited (ASX: MKG) is at the forefront of gold exploration in West Africa, with a strong focus on the highly prospective Birimian Greenstone Belt. Their promising projects and experienced team have made them a compelling contender in the mining sector.
United Lithium Corp. (CSE: ULTH) has gained momentum as a pioneer in lithium exploration and development and is at the forefront of the lithium mining sector, a vital component in the renewable energy and electric vehicle industries. Their exploration efforts target lithium deposits, especially in Sweden, as they aim to secure a sustainable supply chain for the growing demand in battery technology.
Power Minerals Limited (ASX: PNN) was another standout, focusing on mineral exploration in Australia. Their diverse portfolio spans commodities like gold, copper, and base metals, ensuring resilience and adaptability in a dynamic market.
In a thrilling culmination of the Mining Pitch Battles, it was United Lithium Corp. (CSE: ULTH) under the leadership of Scott Eldridge, President, CEO & Director, which emerged victorious, highlighting their unwavering dedication to sustainable mining practices and pioneering solutions. This triumph not only underscored United Lithium Corp.’s commitment but also shone a spotlight on the promising landscape of junior mining companies, heralding a prosperous future for the industry.
The Mining Pitch Battles finale served as a compelling showcase of the diversity and untapped potential within these emerging mining ventures. This event held a mirror to the innovative spirit driving the industry’s evolution, emphasizing that these junior mining companies are a force to be reckoned with.
It’s worth noting that the prizes awarded in the Mining Pitch Battle were generously provided by Sarena Strong, representing VRIFY Technology Inc. from Vancouver, Canada, further reinforcing the collaborative and supportive atmosphere that defines the mining community.
The live keynote panel discussion at IMARC, titled “Reflections From Industry Legends: What Mining Was And What Mining Needs To Be,” brought together esteemed figures Christine Charles, Fiona Robertson, Gabrielle Iwanow, Owen Hegarty, and moderator Mitchell Hooke. Owen Hegarty aptly captured the essence of the conference, saying, “IMARC showcases all the amazing technology shaping our industry today.” The panel delved into the robustness of the mining sector and its pivotal role in transforming economies towards electrification, offering valuable insights for the future of mining.
As IMARC 2023 concludes, the conference exemplifies its commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and collaboration within the mining and resources sector. With a focus on inspiring the next generation, connecting industry leaders, and exploring new frontiers, IMARC remains at the forefront of shaping the future of mining. The past three days have been a testament to the dedication of all those involved, from the speakers who shared their insights to the participants who engaged in thought-provoking discussions.
Stay tuned for more updates as next years conference develops, as we eagerly anticipate the return of companies and investors to Sydney, Australia on 29-31 October 2024 for another enriching and transformative experience. Until then, let’s continue working together to drive innovation, sustainability, and progress in the mining and resources sector.
