Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro

Which commodities matter most in the global race for critical and strategic minerals? In this episode of @SnowdenOptiro Fresh Thinking podcast, Senzeni Mandava Matondi is joined by Julian Aldridge and Laurie Hassall to explore the commodities that consistently appear on critical minerals lists around the world and the factors driving their importance. The discussion examines key battery minerals including lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese and graphite, alongside rare earth elements, tungsten and aluminium. The team also explores how geopolitical considerations, supply chain security and processing capability influence whether a mineral is considered critical or strategic. Topics covered include: The common commodities found on national critical minerals lists The growing importance of rare earths and tungsten Why aluminium is increasingly viewed as both critical and strategic How Indonesia's nickel production is influencing global markets China's role in downstream processing and critical mineral supply chains The relationship between resource availability, processing capacity and strategic importance

Will AI replace geologists? In this episode of Fresh Thinking by @SnowdenOptiro , we explore how artificial intelligence is being used across the mining industry, from exploration targeting and core logging to resource estimation and technical reporting. Our team discusses the opportunities AI presents, its current limitations, and why geological expertise, judgement and accountability remain critical in mining workflows.

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro, Ian Glacken and Susan Havlin explore localised conditional simulation (LCS) and its role in modern resource estimation workflows. Building on earlier discussions around estimation methods, recoverable resources, and conditional simulation, this episode brings everything together to explain how LCS converts multiple simulation realisations into a single, practical block model—while preserving realistic grade variability. Key topics include: What localized conditional simulation is and why it matters How localization transforms multiple realizations into a single model The role of the E-type estimate in ranking and distribution Differences between LCS and traditional ordinary kriging How LCS supports recoverable resource estimation at the SMU scale The origins of localization and its relationship to methods like uniform conditioning and MIK

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by @SnowdenOptiro, Susan Havlin speaks with Tarrant Elkington about the mine planning implications of simulation. The conversation explores: Why resource models are fundamental to mine planning and project evaluation The impact of grade variability and smoothing on mine planning outcomes How LCS compares with conventional estimation methods such as Ordinary Kriging The operational implications of dilution, ore loss and mining selectivity How simulation-based approaches can support risk-aware and stochastic mine planning Why LCS can integrate into existing mine planning workflows This episode is the sixth in our seven-part series exploring recoverable resource estimation, simulation and uncertainty in mineral resource modelling.

In the final episode of our 7-part series on recoverable resources and localised conditional simulation (LCS), Susan Havlin from ‪@SnowdenOptiro‬ is joined by Bruce Kendall, Technical Advisor at Minerals 260, to discuss the application of LCS at the Bullabulling Gold Project in Western Australia. The episode explores: Why Minerals 260 moved beyond traditional ordinary kriging methods How LCS was used to better represent grade variability and uncertainty The impact on resource modelling, mine planning, and grade control Why approaches like LCS may become increasingly important for low-grade, variable deposits

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by @SnowdenOptiro , we explore recoverable resource methods and how they help bridge the gap between resource models and what is actually mined. We discuss key approaches used across the industry, including Uniform Conditioning (UC) and Multiple Indicator Kriging (MIK), outlining how they address grade smoothing and improve predictions at the mining scale. We also cover the strengths and limitations of these methods, particularly their reliance on variograms and their inability to capture uncertainty. This episode sets the stage for the next discussion on conditional simulation, where uncertainty and variability can be modeled more effectively. Topics covered: What are recoverable resources? Why traditional estimation methods fall short Uniform Conditioning (UC) explained Multiple Indicator Kriging (MIK) explained Strengths and limitations of recoverable resource methods Subscribe for more insights on geostatistics, resource estimation, and mining best practices. Subscribe to Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro for more insights on geostatistics, resource estimation, and mining best practices.

Discover the fascinating origins of Australia's nickel industry in this episode of Fresh Thinking by ‪@SnowdenOptiro‬. Principal Consultant, Jan Graham, sits down with Executive Consultant, Ian Glacken, to explore the pivotal moment that sparked it all—the discovery of nickel at Kambalda in 1966. From early prospecting and geological insight to rapid development and industry-wide impact, this story highlights the role of luck, lateral thinking, and persistence in shaping one of Australia's most significant mining sectors. Learn how a single drill hole, KD1, transformed Western Mining Corporation and led to decades of nickel production across Australia. If you enjoy mining history, geology, and industry insights, don't forget to like, subscribe, and follow Fresh Thinking by ‪@SnowdenOptiro‬ .

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro, Jamie Oppelaar (Senior Consultant) and Tarrant Elkington (General Manager) discuss a growing challenge in mining: resource models are getting bigger and bigger. More blocks, more attributes, more simulations. While this can improve geological representation, it can also slow down optimisation, scheduling and everyday planning decisions. So how do we strike the right balance between detail and usability? Jamie and Tarrant explore why models are expanding, the practical consequences for engineers, and how geologists and planners can work together to build fit-for-purpose models that support better decisions without unnecessary complexity. Key moments in this episode 00:00 Introduction: Why resource models keep getting larger 03:40 The three main drivers of model size 07:10 How large models slow optimisation and planning workflows 09:30 When higher resolution models are actually justified 14:20 Practical ways to reduce model size without losing value 20:00 Strategies engineers use to simplify models for optimisation 24:55 The key takeaway: the best model is not the biggest model If you work with block models, resource estimation, or mine planning, this conversation highlights practical ways to improve workflow efficiency while maintaining the geological detail that matters. If you would like to contact Tarrant and Jamie: contact(at)snowdenoptiro.com 🎧 Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is rapidly becoming the best mining podcast globally, and is available as an audio podcast on all major podcast platforms, and in video format on Snowden Optiro's YouTube channel. Snowden Optiro: Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors. We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves. Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/

In this episode of Fresh Thinking, Susan Havlin (Managing Consultant APAC) speaks with Dr Gregory Zhang (Senior Consultant APAC) about using Excel as a transparent learning environment for geostatistics. Rather than relying on black-box software, they explore how building the logic step by step in a spreadsheet can strengthen intuition, improve data discipline and deepen technical confidence. Whether you are a geologist, resource modeller or mining professional wanting to better understand what sits behind the software, this episode breaks down the thinking that underpins robust estimation. 🔎 In this episode: 00:01 – Why the Excel World Championship is more relevant to geologists than you might think 02:02 – Why Excel is a powerful tool for learning geostatistics 06:27 – Building variograms from scratch: pairs, distances and continuity 09:24 – Understanding kriging as a system of equations 12:03 – Simple validation routines to keep yourself honest 13:02 – Can Excel help you understand machine learning? If you want to move beyond "clicking the kriging button" and truly understand the mechanics behind resource estimation, this conversation is for you. If you would like to contact Susan and Greg: contact(at)snowdenoptiro.com 🎧 Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is available as an audio podcast on all major podcast platforms, and in video format on Snowden Optiro's YouTube channel. If you need further assistance in using Excel, we have 2 courses that might interest you: 1-day Essential Excel Skills for Geologists and our 1-day Advanced Excel Skills for Kriging & Simulation. Both courses are presented by Dr Gregory Zhang. Link to training courses: https://snowdenoptiro.com/professional-development/ Listen on the go: Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is rapidly becoming the best mining podcast globally, and is available on all major podcast platforms. Snowden Optiro: Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors. We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves. Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro, Hamish Guthrie (Managing Consultant – Mining) joins Dr Gregory Zhang (Senior Consultant – Geology) to explore the fundamentals of cost estimation across the mining study pipeline. Hamish shares practical insights from his more than 30 years in the industry, including the importance of understanding project scale and matching the level of effort to the study stage. If you're involved in study work, project evaluation, cost modelling or operational planning, this conversation will give you clear, practical guidance you can apply straight away. Key Timestamps 00:31 – What Is Cost Estimation? 00:56 – Cost Estimation Across Study Levels 01:10 – Data Sources for Cost Estimation 01:58 – Scoping Study Accuracy 02:32 – Pre-feasibility Study Accuracy 03:19 – Feasibility Study Expectations 04:23 – Basis of Estimate (BOE) 05:16 – Common Pitfalls 06:38 – Key Takeaway If you would like to contact Hamish and Greg: contact@snowdenoptiro.com 🎧 Listen on the go: Fresh Thinking is available on all major podcast platforms – subscribe to never miss an episode! 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more technical mining insights from our global consulting team. Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is rapidly becoming the best mining podcast globally – you can find our podcasts on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most other podcast platforms. Snowden Optiro Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting, and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors, and investors. We help mine developers advance their projects, mining companies improve their operations, and investors de-risk their investments by providing quality advice, training, and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves. 🌐 Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/

In this episode of Fresh Thinking, Dr Gregory (Greg) Zhang and Jenny Dalrymple, both Senior Consultants at Snowden Optiro, share how automation and scripting can transform the mineral resource estimation process - saving time, improving accuracy, and creating an auditable, repeatable workflow. From Python scripting and macros to block model estimation and LUC workflows, Greg and Jenny explain how practical automation can make complex resource estimation tasks far more efficient. ⏱️ This podcast at a glance: 00:41 – Using scripting to automate mineral resource estimation 02:18 – Python and Datamine: speeding up exploratory data analysis 03:23 – From internal tools to standalone software - developed by our consultants 04:01 – How macros streamline LUC and MIK workflows 07:25 – Why workflow automation matters for small and large projects 08:22 – Macros as an audit trail for peer review and project handovers 08:50 – How to get started writing your first macro 09:51 – Practical advice for beginners in scripting and automation 10:19 – Final thoughts and closing remarks If you would like to contact Greg or Jenny: contact@snowdenoptiro.com 🎧 Listen on the go: Fresh Thinking is available on all major podcast platforms – subscribe to never miss an episode! 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more technical mining insights from our global consulting team. Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is rapidly becoming the best mining podcast globally – you can find our podcasts on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most other podcast platforms. Snowden Optiro Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting, and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors, and investors. We help mine developers advance their projects, mining companies improve their operations, and investors de-risk their investments by providing quality advice, training, and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves. 🌐 Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/

In this episode of Fresh Thinking, our host Dr Gregory Zhang is joined by Ian Glacken, Executive Consultant - a leading expert in grade control and reconciliation. They explore why reconciliation is fundamental to every mine, how grade control fits into the mine value chain, and what makes accurate modelling essential for achieving reliable results. Key Time Stamps 0:46 – What is Reconciliation and Why It Matters Ian explains why reconciliation is fundamental to every mining operation and what makes it complex and critical. 1:31 – The Role of the Grade Control Model Discussion on how grade control fits within the mine value chain and its link to production and reconciliation outcomes. 3:13 – Reconciliation is a Team Effort How geologists, mining engineers, metallurgists, and finance teams all play a part in accurate reconciliation. 5:42 – Grade Control Modelling Methods Ian outlines common estimation techniques used in grade control, including ordinary kriging and inverse distance methods. 7:38 – When to Use Advanced Estimation Methods The team discusses when probabilistic or multiple indicator kriging methods may offer better results for complex orebodies. 8:49 – Wrap-Up and Key Takeaways Greg and Ian summarise the importance of good grade control, accurate modelling, and effective reconciliation practices. 🎧 Tune in to understand how better grade control leads to smarter, more consistent mining outcomes. If you would like to contact Ian or Greg: contact@snowdenoptiro.com Listen on the go: Fresh Thinking is available on all major podcast platforms – subscribe to never miss an episode! Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/ 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more technical mining insights from our global consulting team. Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is rapidly becoming the best mining podcast globally - you can find our podcasts on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and most other podcast platforms. Who we are: Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors. We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves. For training or consulting enquiries: training(at)snowdenoptiro.com contact(at)snowdenoptiro.com

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro, Susan Havlin (Managing Consultant) speaks with Dr Tarrant Elkington (Snowden Optiro General Manager) about extending generative AI into coding practical engineering solutions. They discuss how mining engineers and scientists can use AI tools to prototype bespoke solutions, automate niche problems, and build simple applications without being expert programmers. If you've ever thought about using AI, but didn't know where to start, this conversation is for you. Key moments: 0:36 – Why generative AI and coding is relevant for mining professionals 2:41 – What "AI coding" actually involves and how it works 4:22 – Real mining examples: road design optimisation and waste dump planning 6:46 – Does it really work first time? Debugging and validation 8:24 – What you learn through the process 9:37 – When it won't work and why starting small matters 11:06 – Practical advice for engineers and scientists wanting to begin Generative AI is changing how we work. The question is not whether to use it, but how to use it well. Listen now and see how you could start building your own tools. If you enjoyed this episode, please Subscribe for more mining-focused technical discussions across the mine value chain. If you would like to contact Tarrant Elkington or Susan Havlin: contact@snowdenoptiro.com Listen on the go: Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is rapidly becoming the best mining podcast globally, and is available on most audio podcast platforms and also as a video podcast on Snowden Optiro's YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/v3dQDfaU-vg 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more technical mining insights from our global consulting team. Snowden Optiro: Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors. We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves. Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/