Could you provide details on the deployment of the five new Liebherr T264 electric wheel drive trucks by Thiess at Antofagasta Minerals’ Encuentro Oxides operation at Minera Centinela?

Yes, Thiess has a long-standing relationship with Liebherr that goes back decades, and we’re excited to bring the new T264 electric-wheel-drive trucks to Chile. The trucks are currently in the commissioning phase on site at Centinela and we anticipate deploying them in the upcoming weeks. This investment reinforces our commitment to Chile, which is an important part of Thiess’ growth plans in South America.

Can you explain how the Hydra consortium, including Thiess, is working to replace the use of diesel in high-tonnage vehicles with hydrogen?

The Hydra consortium is exploring alternative fuels, such as hydrogen, and fuel combinations like hydrogen-electric. Thiess’ involvement in the developmental project is part of our commitment to drive more sustainable mining practices. We are also involved in other initiatives that explore alternative fuel sources which can help reduce the carbon footprint of our own fleets and allow us to help our clients achieve their carbon emission reduction goals.

How has Thiess tackled the challenge of fuel costs over the past year?

The cost of fuel has been a significant challenge over the last year. To counter this, we have worked to maximize operational efficiency by minimizing idle time, or non-effective uptime, with our fleet. Thiess is currently participating in trials to reduce diesel fuel consumption in Australia, which could also have a significant impact.

Can you give examples of the latest innovations Thiess is working with that are improving productivity and increasing safety at mine sites?

Technology plays a crucial role in improving both safety and productivity, which are interrelated. Statistics show that the operations with the safest workplaces are the most productive. Technology supports the decision-making process of workers, and at the end of the day, it’s still people who operate equipment and make decisions on site. Our approach is to combine technology with training to aid transformation in mining, which is increasingly important as we see ore grades decline. Autonomy also plays a role in this. For example, Thiess operates autonomous and semi-autonomous dozer and drill fleets in Australia, and later this year, we will deploy our first autonomous truck fleet, also in Australia. We are seeking out the right opportunities with the right clients in Chile to deploy similar technologies here, which will help reduce the number of people on site, particularly in high altitude areas.

What is Thiess’s approach to fostering strong social relations with local communities and attracting a more diverse workforce?

Focusing on improvement through ESG initiatives is crucial to the success of the mining industry. Many of our employees come from the outlying communities in which we operate, and as a company, we must be good stewards by offering fair, healthy, and sustainable working conditions and development opportunities for our people. Furthermore, as an industry, we have a responsibility to ensure that enough of the benefits earned from mining serve the communities and countries that generate them. In northern Chile, Thiess participates in scholarship programs to train locals and equip them with the tools and skills they need to gain sustainable employment and support their families. We have also made a dedicated effort to train women in the north of Chile, including a multi-year apprenticeship program, which we are initiating in 2022 in partnership with local technical institutes. Later this year, Thiess will open a new innovation, training, and technology center in La Negra, Antofagasta, which will focus on preparing skilled maintenance personnel.