Argyle Diamond Mine

In the stunning Kimberley region of Western Australia, specifically in the traditional territory of the Miriwoong, Gija, Malgnin, and Wularr people, MDM Mining and Civil stands at the forefront of a crucial endeavor: the rehabilitation of the Argyle Diamond Mine. This project is not just another line item in our portfolio; it holds deep personal significance for MDM’s director, Mika. As a traditional owner of the land and the grandson of the original signatory for the Argyle Diamond Mine, Mika embodies a deep-rooted connection to this sacred territory. For Indigenous Australians, land is more than mere geography; it envelops culture, history, and spirituality. MDM’s commitment to returning this land to its original custodians reflects not just corporate responsibility but a profound respect for the heritage and values of the local Indigenous communities.

The Argyle Diamond Mine commenced operations in 1983, subsequently becoming renowned for its exceptional pink diamonds. However, the mine ceased mining activities in November 2020, and MDM has been entrusted with an extensive five-year closure and rehabilitation process that is now underway. Each step of this effort is a conscious undertaking to honor the land and ensure its restoration, followed by ongoing monitoring and maintenance to guarantee the land's continued recovery. MDM is wholeheartedly devoted to yielding positive outcomes for the environment, local community, and ultimately, the Traditional Owners who have persevered through generations.

Commitment to the local community

Mika's commitment to the rehabilitation of the Argyle Diamond Mine extends beyond the environmental aspects; it includes a dedication to empowering the local community. MDM prioritizes offering employment opportunities to local residents, ensuring that the people most affected by the project's impact can participate in its rehabilitation. While Fly-in Fly-out positions may be available, the heart of MDM's mission lies in investing in the local workforce, providing not only jobs but also pathways for new career opportunities. This focus reinforces the company's belief in giving back to the community and fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the local population.

MDM's dedication to the local land and communities manifests not only through our heartfelt commitment but also in MDM’s comprehensive approach to mine rehabilitation. At present, we are engaged in crucial rehabilitation work on the tailings dam and reshaping the land to its natural state, marking an important step after 37 years of operations. Our ongoing projects, including the South West Upper, Far West GM, and the Telecom Ridge Spillway, serve as prime examples of our capabilities. South West Upper focuses on rehabilitating the mine waste dump by reshaping the land and seeding it with local vegetation. By blending the waste dump into the natural landscape, MDM is ensuring that the site will be a harmonious part of the environment once again.

Far West GM, Argyle

In the Far West GM project, MDM is working diligently on the growth media that will envelop waste rock removed from the open pit, utilizing reshaping techniques to control water flow and reduce erosion. Traditional Indigenous knowledge gives these processes additional depth, as MDM collaborates with local communities to ensure the restoration reflects cultural values and ecological integrity.

telecom ridge Spillway, argyle.

Similarly, the Telecom Ridge Spillway proves MDM’s commitment to innovative solutions. This project will enable excess water to be channeled away from the tailings dam, thereby mitigating water buildup that could harm the environment. Constructing a spillway filled with rock ensures that vehicles can traverse the area while water can safely seep through and exit the dam, showcasing MDM's strategic foresight and environmental stewardship.

Our state-of-the-art fleet

Behind the success of these projects is an extensive fleet of state-of-the-art machinery outfitted with Trimble Earthworks—an automated GPS system that enhances efficiency in every operation. With some of the newest plant equipment available in the market today, MDM ensures that all rehabilitation efforts are executed with precision and effectiveness, leading to cost-effective results for our clients. This technological advancement empowers workers to operate confidently, reducing the risk of errors and allowing them to meet tight deadlines while maintaining environmental integrity.

MDM’s reputation as mine rehabilitation experts has transformed them into the go-to contractor for mine rehabilitation services both domestically and internationally. Our strategic and holistic approach to environmental restoration signifies our deep understanding of the unique challenges faced in this field. The breadth and variety of projects we have undertaken speak volumes about our commitment to excellence, with each initiative testifying to our core values of sustainability and respect for Indigenous culture.

Using technology to improve environmental/cultural heritage risk controls - Geofencing in earthmoving equipment.

MDM have recently trialled and implemented geofencing technology for our works at the Argyle Diamond Mine closure project.

The Argyle Diamond Mine (ADM) Ground Disturbance Procedure requires that all proposed works resulting in ground disturbance are authorised by a Ground Disturbance Permit (GDP), which will determine the appropriate controls through Geographical Information Systems (GIS) mapping and visual assessment. Physical boundary demarcation (pegs/flagging) are used as key controls to ensure disturbance boundaries (e.g. regulated areas/heritage sites) are clearly highlighted and understood by the work group.

How does Geofencing work?

Geofencing is an electronic barrier that provides an alert to the equipment operator when approaching a set boundary and can be used in circumstances where it is impractical to physically demarcate a disturbance boundary e.g. on steep slopes or over water bodies. Geofencing controls can vary depending on the equipment, but as a minimum should sound an audible alarm for the operator when approaching a set boundary. 

MDM's geofencing system not only alerts the machine operator when within a set distance from the disturbance boundary, but will also physically override equipment controls e.g. can prevent an excavator bucket slewing across a boundary. For bulldozers, the geofence will prevent the bulldozer from tracking over the geofence by shutting the machine down. The controls are tested daily as part of the equipment pre-operational inspection to ensure the geofence is in working order. The use of the geofence not only prevents clearing permit breaches but also provides the operator some confidence that a boundary will not be inadvertently traversed, resulting in an adverse outcome.

Paving an environmentally friendly future

As MDM continue with the Argyle Diamond Mine rehabilitation process, MDM remains resolute in our mission. Each project is not merely a task; it encapsulates a vision of restoring the land and rectifying the impacts of mining, all while fostering relationships with the local community. Mika’s connection to the land is mirrored in the culture instilled within MDM. Understanding that the land does not merely belong to them, but is a legacy meant to be passed forward, is a guiding principle for every employee.

MDM Mining and Civil is more than a rehabilitation service provider; it is a team that cherishes the land, respects Indigenous culture, and strives to maintain ecological balance. Our projects are a testament to MDM’s expertise, dedication, and conviction that rehabilitation is not just about the land, but also about the people. By prioritising local employment and community engagement, MDM ensures that the spirit of the Kimberley region is honoured throughout our efforts, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for all.