Mount Isa Mines celebrates its 100th birthday today, with the business pointing to a strong long-term future with its zinc-lead operations, and copper smelting and refining.

It comes amid a major shift for the operation after news late last year that current owner Glencore plans to close the local copper mines and copper concentrator in 2025.

“We know how important our operations are to the north-west region and Queensland and we will continue to invest in exploration and studies into other potential business opportunities,” Chief Operating Officer for Glencore’s zinc and copper assets in Australia Sam Strohmayr said.

Mount Isa Mines Limited was formed on January 16, 1924, almost a year after prospector John Campbell Miles discovered mineralised outcrops near the Leichhardt River that contained high grades of lead-silver.

Over two months, Miles pegged out the ‘Racecourse’ lease around the outcrops. He named the larger outcrop ‘Mount Isa’, claiming 17ha that led to one of the most productive single mines in history.

Some of the most significant names in Australian mining, including Julius Kruttschnitt, Sir George Fisher, Sir James Foots and Sir Bruce Watson, have been involved in the Mount Isa Mines success story.

And the site has pioneered significant innovations including ISASMELT smelting technology, IsaMill fine grinding technology, and Jameson Cell flotation technology.

In 2009, Mount Isa Mines was recognised as having made the most significant contribution to the State’s economy since Queensland’s separation from New South Wales in June 1859.

Over its life, Mount Isa Mines has produced enough copper to build over 39 million houses, and enough zinc to manufacture over 535 million cars, according to Glencore.

“This remarkable achievement reflects the qualities of resilience, drive and dedication that define our company,” Mr Sam Strohmayr said.

“Our success has been built on the hard work of former and current employees, support of the community, and a commitment to excellence in all our endeavours.

“Our long history is made up of hard work, countless stories, fond memories and valuable experiences for people who have either worked at Mount Isa Mines for a short time or several generations.”

Mount Isa Mines is planning a series of events and initiatives throughout the year to mark its centenary.