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Learn From the People Solving Processing Challenges Every Day
The best ideas in mineral processing don't stay in the conference room. They get tested on site, refined through experience and delivered through measurable improvements in performance.
At Mill Operators 2026, delegates will hear directly from the metallurgists, processing leaders, researchers and technology specialists tackling some of the industry's most complex challenges. From circuit optimisation and process control to artificial intelligence and advanced analytics, the program is designed to deliver practical insights, proven approaches and lessons learned that can be applied back at your operation.
Held in Brisbane from 19-21 October, Mill Operators brings together some of the most respected voices in mineral processing for three days of technical knowledge sharing, industry discussion and professional development.
Opening the Conference
Mill Operators 2026 will commence with welcome addresses from Reg Rexford, Advisory Committee Chair, and Stephen Durkin FAusIMM, Chief Executive Officer, AusIMM, setting the scene for three days of learning, collaboration and technical excellence.
Their opening remarks will highlight the opportunities and challenges facing the processing sector, and the importance of sharing knowledge across operations, organisations and disciplines.
Perspectives From Global Processing Leaders
The conference features presentations from speakers whose work influences processing operations around the world.
Bryan Rairdan, Head of Global Metallurgy and Processing, RCoE at BHP, will share insights from one of the world's largest mining organisations, offering delegates a global perspective on metallurgical performance and processing excellence.
Delegates will also hear from Brian Putland FAusIMM, Managing Director of Orway Mineral Consultants, whose expertise in comminution and circuit optimisation has helped shape processing strategies across the industry.
Joining the lineup is Martin Lynch MAusIMM, Industry Expert with the Sustainable Minerals Institute at The University of Queensland, bringing decades of experience in mineral processing innovation, education and industry collaboration.
The Growing Role of Data and Artificial Intelligence
As digital technologies become increasingly embedded in processing operations, Mill Operators will bring together experts exploring how data, analytics and artificial intelligence can support better decision-making and operational performance.
Featured speakers include:
- Michelle Heley, Bioleaching Data Scientist, IGO
- Professor Kerrie Mengersen, Emeritus Distinguished Professor, Queensland University of Technology
- Dominic Stoll, CEO, Dymaxion
- Elsa Jordaan, Director, Deployed Analytics
- Wynand Cronje, Principal Specialist Process Control, Gold Fields
Together, these experts will explore how operations are applying advanced analytics, machine learning and process control technologies to unlock new opportunities for efficiency, optimisation and performance improvement.
Practical Knowledge You Can Apply
What sets Mill Operators apart is its focus on practical outcomes.
Beyond the keynote presentations and panel discussions, delegates will gain access to technical papers, operational case studies and lessons learned from processing professionals working across a wide range of commodities and operations.
Expect practical insights, proven approaches and ideas you can take straight back to site.
Join the Conversation
Whether you're looking to improve recovery, optimise throughput, better understand emerging technologies or connect with peers facing similar challenges, Mill Operators 2026 offers a unique opportunity to learn from some of the industry's most experienced practitioners.
Join hundreds of processing professionals in Brisbane this October and discover the ideas, innovations and connections that will continue shaping conversations long after the conference concludes.