OreNova Engineering is deploying proprietary AI-based design tools to accelerate the definitive feasibility study for Horizon Gold’s Gum Creek project in Western Australia, targeting faster engineering of the mineral processing plant. The Perth-based firm is using automated process modelling and plant layout optimisation to compress design cycles that traditionally take months into weeks, while iterating multiple comminution and gold recovery flowsheets. For project engineers, this points to shorter DFS schedules, earlier capex definition and the ability to rapidly compare alternative plant configurations under varying throughput and ore characteristics.

Metso has signed its largest analyser Life Cycle Services (LCS) agreement to date, a five-year contract with a major South American copper producer covering performance-based support for on-stream analysers. The deal centres on an outcome-based model, with Metso responsible for maintaining analyser availability and measurement accuracy across the concentrator to stabilise grade control and process optimisation. For plant and maintenance engineers, it signals deeper OEM involvement in long-term condition monitoring, remote diagnostics and KPI-linked service for critical assay instrumentation.

Globe 24-7 has launched Globe Trust 24-7, a joint venture with Guinea-based Trust Africa, to expand mining recruitment and workforce solutions across Guinea and the wider West African belt. The JV targets operators in gold, bauxite and iron ore projects seeking local and expatriate technical talent in geology, mine planning, processing and HSE. For project owners, this signals easier access to regionally based recruiters familiar with OH&S regimes, francophone labour markets and rapid mobilisation for new pits, plant expansions and feasibility teams.