Over the past five months, more than 40 pieces of massive machinery have travelled from throughout Australia to Glencore’s McArthur River Mine, 700 kilometres south-east of Darwin. 

It is part of an impressive $250 million investment in the Territory economy through MRM’s purchase of a new Caterpillar mining fleet from Hastings Deering Darwin. 

By the end of this year, a total of 46 haul trucks, excavators, wheel loaders, dozers, graders and water carts will have made their way to the mine for final assembly at the remote mine site. 

The significant investment not only delivers a boost to the Territory economy but it also provides increased opportunities for Territorians through employment, training and development. 

MRM General Manager Mark Furlotte says buying a new and locally-sourced fleet is a demonstration of MRM’s commitment to Territorians and the Territory. 

“We have a proud history of supporting the local economy,” he says. “We employ local and we support local businesses, from the food we buy to the uniforms our people wear and the vehicles we drive. 

“Our investment in a new mining fleet through Hastings Deering in Darwin is another example of our commitment to Territory jobs, the Territory economy and Territory families.” 

MRM’s substantial capital investment includes three excavators, 24 haul trucks and 19 ancillary machines. The fleet has been delivered progressively throughout 2024. 

Despite the equipment’s impressive size, the new Caterpillar fleet is more efficient, consuming less fuel for every tonne carried. 

“The new fleet is delivering improved operational and maintenance efficiencies while also ensuring we have the right fleet to fully maximise our operational potential through to end of mining,” Mark says. 

The final assembly, delivery and maintenance support of its new mining fleet goes hand-in-hand with quality training and career opportunities for Territorians directly at MRM and also through Hastings Deering. 

MRM is committed to providing increased opportunity for Territorians, in particular local residents of Borroloola and the wider Gulf region through MRM’s Local Language Employment Program, providing traineeships, apprenticeships, and other pathway programs. 

One in four of MRM’s employees are Indigenous, 24 percent are women and 74 percent Territory based. 

For more information on MRM or to explore career opportunities, visit glencore.com.au/mrm