Northwest Branch Summary

Well done to the Northwest team for an exceptional performance throughout Q3 and Q4!

During November, the team achieved several significant milestones in our NW operations:

  • 928kt of total tonnes hauled to port—an MGM record achieved in a 30-day month.

  • The daily haulage performance (FTE - Full Tonne Equivalent) record was broken three times during this period, with 1.23 million tonnes hauled in total.

  • A new record was also set for intramine tonnes hauled in a single month.

These impressive achievements were delivered alongside an increased focus on safety diligence, demonstrated through heightened Safety Observations and Critical Control Verifications—a reflection of the team's visible leadership and proactive safety interactions.

Overcoming Challenges

The team faced multiple challenges during this period, including wet weather, DIMRS inspections, audits, increased dust, and road hazards. These were compounded by the rollout of new Maintenance and Finance Systems; however, the team's resilience and operational excellence ensured these obstacles were overcome.

Delivering Value for Atlas

Throughout November, we delivered substantial value to our customer, Atlas. By maintaining efficiency, we successfully avoided Utah Point berth vacancy periods that were anticipated at the start of the month. This enabled Atlas to load their final ship ahead of schedule, mitigating a significant scheduling risk.

Looking ahead to December, Atlas' shipping schedule did not anticipate vessel loadings until after the 90-hour planned shutdown (6th December). However, thanks to the additional tonnes hauled in November, we created an opportunity for Atlas to berth and load a vessel ahead of schedule.

These results demonstrate the unwavering commitment, collaboration, and precision planning across all teams—from operations and recruitment to driver engagement and fleet maintenance. Our workshop team achieved some of MGM's highest fleet mechanical availability, ensuring our assets were utilised to their fullest potential.

Recognition and Appreciation

In recognition of the team's efforts and outstanding results, MGM directors and EXCO kindly arranged a 24-hour food truck event at the depot on 7th December and gifted each employee a quality MGM-branded Swisswin bag. The event was greatly appreciated, and while rosters meant some missed out, anyone yet to receive their bag can speak with Max, Craig, or their supervisor.

For those rostered off during the festive season, we hope you enjoy a well-earned break with your loved ones. For those rostered on, thank you for your ongoing professionalism and for keeping the wheels turning. Please support your teammates and help each other remain safe and focused on the tasks at hand.

Exciting Announcement: MGM Lodge Underway

In line with our ongoing commitment to growth in the Northwest, we proudly announce that construction is officially underway for the MGM Lodge in Port Hedland—our new lifestyle-focused accommodation for the Northwest FIFO team.

This 220-room lodge has been designed with spacious living quarters and modern amenities to ensure our team feels comfortable and supported while away from home. It's yet another reason to consider MGM Bulk for your next career move in the Northwest.

A big thank you to Grounded for their partnership in bringing this vision to life. We look forward to sharing progress updates in the months ahead as we create a space that truly feels like home.

Looking Ahead

As we close out 2024, the exceptional results of Q3 and Q4 reflect the collective efforts of a united team. We look forward to carrying this momentum into 2025 and achieving even greater success.

Thank you for your hard work, commitment, and dedication. Here's to continued growth and excellence in the year ahead!

Luke McPartland | North West Branch Manager

The second half of 2024 has been exciting and challenging for the Northwest Workshop.

We've continued to strengthen our fleet with:

  • 10 new Kenworth 509 Ultra Quad Road Trains were added to the fleet while retiring some of our oldest trucks.

  • An additional 10 Kenworth 509 prime movers are set to arrive early in the new year.

This investment has resulted in a significant reduction in the overall age of the fleet, relieving pressure on the workshop. We're already seeing the positive impact of this reflected in our daily statistics.

In addition to fleet updates, we took delivery of our first Cat 982 XE loader. This new addition, alongside our existing fleet of 10 Cat 982M loaders and 1 Cat 988K loader, is proving its worth, with production increases and reduced fuel consumption thanks to the XE series' advanced technology.

Team Growth and Innovation

We've welcomed Holly and Leah into the team in the new role of Parts Storeperson, with a third team member set to join us before Christmas. The success of this position is already redefining how we purchase parts, receive them into stock, and allocate them to work orders.

We have also implemented the Dynaway electronic platform, eliminating the need for paper records and providing better tracking and reporting of costs. I'm incredibly proud of the workshop team for embracing this new system and assisting in smoothing out the challenges that come with any new initiative.

A special mention goes to the workshop forepersons, leading hands, and admin team for their dedication to developing the Dynaway platform. Their efforts have ensured the system constantly evolves to better fit our business and operate effectively.

Milestone Achievements

In January, the Northwest Fleet will surpass:

  • 100 prime movers

  • 400 trailers

  • 300 dollies

These assets are regularly serviced and repaired in our Port Hedland Workshop—a significant milestone that we will celebrate at the time.

Our satellite workshops at Miralga Creek, Sanjiv Ridge, and Mt Webber continue to meet our onsite mechanical requirements, and we are truly grateful for their daily achievements.

Truck Availability and Team Recognition

Truck availability during this period has exceeded all expectations—a testament to the team's hard work, skill, and dedication.

"Any business is only worth the sum of its employees."

This couldn't be truer for our Northwest team. Together, we drive results, and I couldn't be prouder.

Merry Christmas to all and bring on 2025!

Doug Forrest | Workshop Supervisor

North West Workshop Summary

Southwest Branch Summary

As we approach the end of another year, the Southwest remains a hive of activity. One of the standout highlights was the official opening of the Bunbury Outer Ring Road project, a milestone we’ve been involved with from its commencement—a proud achievement for the team.

In fleet news, we’ve recently welcomed the final 6 Prime Movers transferred from Perth. These new additions replace some of our old workhorses and ensure we’re ready to tackle the demands of 2025.

A big congratulations goes to Ethan Carbone, who has completed his HD Mechanical Trade—from start to finish with MGM. Well done, Ethan!

On the operations front, we’ve continued to deliver outstanding service to our valued clients and look forward to building on these strong relationships in the new year.

Some key highlights:

  • In our first year of operation, we will have shipped over 220,000 tonnes of lithium from the Picton Storage Facility for Covalent by the end of December.

  • Copper Concentrate haulage and exports for Newmont, along with Mineral Sands for Doral, have kept us as a regular and visible presence through the Bunbury Port.

As we move into the busy final weeks leading up to Christmas, we want to take a moment to thank the entire Southwest team—across all roles and areas. Your hard work, commitment, and consistently meeting expectations keep us moving forward.

Please take care over the Christmas period, enjoy your time with family and friends, and prepare for what promises to be an exciting and productive 2025.

Thank you, and stay safe.

Dwayne Cousens | South West Branch Manager

As we wrap up another busy quarter, the workshop team has plenty to celebrate with significant achievements and developments.

Training and Product Demonstrations

This quarter, we had the opportunity to upskill and explore new technologies through visits from key industry representatives:

  • A Stemco representative provided hands-on training on kingpins and demonstrated their innovative new wheel-end solution. This all-in-one design eliminates the need for snap rings and other components, making maintenance more manageable and efficient. The team is hopeful that this product will become part of our future solutions.

  • BPW also visited the workshop for a demonstration and maintenance session on their products. This gave the team valuable insight into product optimisation and best practices, ensuring we continue to deliver high-quality servicing when undertaking vehicle repairs and servicing.

Team Milestones and Achievements

  • We are thrilled to announce that Ethan has successfully completed his apprenticeship—a significant milestone and a testament to his hard work and dedication. Congratulations, Ethan!

  • Junchris, one of our dedicated tyre fitters, welcomed a beautiful baby boy, Jhunechris, to his family. A big congratulations to Junchris on this special occasion!

Technology and Systems Update

The workshop has successfully rolled out a new maintenance system. Mechanics are now submitting their work cards digitally, streamlining processes and improving efficiency across the team. This move toward digital integration is a great step forward and will help optimise workflows as we head into 2025.

Southwest Workshop Summary

Leon Vadaro | Workshop Supervisor

Quarry Summary

This winter brought heavy rainfall, and at times, our quarries looked more like water catchments for the Water Corporation! Despite these challenges, the Quarries team worked exceptionally hard to achieve outstanding results and meet all compliance requirements. A special thank you to Stuart Carbone for his knowledge and experience, which were instrumental in navigating these conditions.

As a new member of the team after recently transferring from Port Hedland, I was incredibly impressed by how well the team collaborated. With nearly 125 years of combined experience within the ranks, the support and teamwork I’ve witnessed have been invaluable to achieving our goals together.

Rehabilitation and Partnerships

Extensive rehabilitation work has been completed at Lowrie Road Quarry and Payton’s Sand Quarry, strengthening relationships with Local Government Officers. A big shout-out to our Dozer Operators, Ray Marlow and Greg Boon, who went above and beyond—your efforts are greatly appreciated.

We welcomed Tony Curulli, HD Plant Mechanic, who transferred from the Workshop to Quarries in April. Tony has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills. His presence at pre-start meetings and proactive preventative maintenance programme has led to a notable decrease in downtime—a fantastic result.

New Opportunities and Milestones

  • In July, we opened a new Sand Quarry at Lake Preston, known as the Galati Quarry. MGM is proud to partner with the Galati Family, and we look forward to continued success in this new venture.

  • Keegan Fortescue was appointed Quarry Supervisor in July. Keegan completed his Statutory Supervisor course in early August, becoming the first to achieve this at Quarries. Congratulations, Keegan—well done!

South West Gateway Project

The South West Gateway (BORR) Gravel contract concluded in October. Over the past two years, the team delivered impressive results, achieving significant tonnages while maintaining service to existing customers. A special mention to Terry Baruffi for expertly managing such a demanding schedule—your efforts are commendable.

Supporting MGM Shipping

Throughout this period, Quarries continued to support MGM Shipping, and we extend our thanks to Sean Buck, Greg Boon, Jason Wilkinson, and Stuart Carbone for making themselves available when needed.

Looking Ahead to 2025

The busy season is upon us, with summer and the new year approaching. Exciting new quarry opportunities are on the horizon under the development of Craig Carbone, and we anticipate a very productive 2025.

Finally, on behalf of the Quarries team, we wish all MGM staff a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Brendan Hart | Quarries Supervisor