The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC), now in its 11th year, is seen by industry leaders as one of the world’s most important forums for shaping critical discussions and driving innovation across the global resources sector.
BHP vice president growth Michelle Ash said IMARC has successfully positioned itself over the last decade as the premier platform where industry leaders, governments, innovators and stakeholders come together to address challenges and unlock new opportunities in the mining and resource sector.
“I have attended IMARC every year since it started, because it is the best forum to understand what is happening in the mining industry and who is leading the pack,” Ash said.
“Whether you are part of a mining company, supplier, startup, government or just someone interested in the industry, you will find something for you.”
This sentiment is echoed by Evolution Mining executive chairman Jake Klein.
“Over the past decade IMARC has facilitated an annual forum for important and thoughtful conversations about our industry and its future,” he said. “This creates opportunities for shared learning and mutual success.”
IMARC’s role in shaping industry discussion
Since its inception, IMARC has framed critical conversations that influence the trajectory of the mining industry.
By hosting thought leadership panels, keynote addresses and workshops with the most senior industry figures, IMARC has fostered in-depth dialogues on critical topics, including sustainability, digital transformation and future growth strategies.
These discussions have not only set the tone for industry-wide initiatives but have also spurred meaningful partnerships and innovation across – and beyond – the sector.
“Over the past 11 years, IMARC has been instrumental in bringing the global community together to discuss both immediate challenges and long-term goals,” IMARC chief operating officer Anita Richards said.
“This event has provided a unique space for experts and leaders to share knowledge and collectively shape the future of the industry.”
Newmont manager government and industry affairs Simon Troeth said IMARC has helped Newmont connect with industry peers.
“As the world’s largest gold miner and a substantial producer of copper and other metals, forums like IMARC create a larger arena for the contest of ideas so we can learn from each other and build a bigger and better picture of our operating environment,” Troeth said.
Instrumental in achieving core business objectives
For many organisations, IMARC serves as a catalyst in driving core business objectives.
From unveiling cutting-edge technology to forming international partnerships, companies have leveraged the conference to align their strategies with industry trends. As a result, many organisations have achieved significant progress in areas such as operational efficiency, sustainability, and workforce development.
“IMARC is a platform to share and learn from each other,” Hexagon field marketing mining division Kimberley Lim said.
“When a conference like this brings in the heavy-hitters and industry thought-leaders into one place, we all benefit from the collective. Secondly, IMARC is well-positioned as the leading technology conference for the mining industry, allowing us to collaborate with like-minded customers and partners who are instrumental in our technology development.”
Accelerating conversations on First Nations engagement and diversity
While the rights and roles of First Nations communities have become critical issues for the mining industry globally in recent years, IMARC has been championing these global challenges since its first meeting in Melbourne 11 years ago.
IMARC puts these important conversations around First Nations engagement and diversity in the workplace front and centre on the conference program.
These discussions have not only highlighted the importance of inclusivity but have also accelerated the implementation of initiatives aimed at fostering stronger relationships with Indigenous communities around the world and, more broadly, promoting greater inclusion and diversity in the workforce.
As IMARC enters its second decade, it remains committed to driving positive change and shaping the future of the mining and resources industries. The conference continues to evolve, ensuring that the discussions, innovations, and collaborations that take place today will lead to a more sustainable and prosperous future for the sector.