South32 has celebrated the 25th anniversary of Cannington mine operations and honoured team members who have worked at the site for the past two-and-a-half decades.

South32 chief executive officer Graham Kerr, chief operating officer Jason Economidis and Cannington vice-president operations Joe Russell were joined by current and former Cannington team members, and a broad range of guests in Townsville to mark the milestone anniversary of Cannington’s operations.

Eleven team members who have worked at Cannington Mine for 25 years were honoured for their remarkable service, and a further nine team members received long-service awards.

Mr Russell said the mine was one of the world’s largest producers of silver and lead and made a significant contribution to the communities where South32 operated.

“Over the years we have supported our local communities in North West Queensland and Townsville through community investment, local employment and local procurement,” he said.

“We have also built strong relationships with our neighbouring landholders and the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we operate.

“Today, we are at an exciting point for our operation as we sustainably produce commodities that are critical for the transition to a low-carbon world.”

Cannington mine takes its name from the sheep and cattle station where geologists first discovered the operation’s deposits of lead, zinc and silver in the early 1990s following more than a decade of research and investigation.

The deposit would have remained hidden many metres below the surface if it wasn’t for the application of what was then a range of modern exploration techniques and processes, including a magnetic survey and investigative geology.

Following studies through the 1990s, construction of the mine, processing and associated facilities began in 1996 and production commenced in October 1997.

The mine and its operations have developed significantly over the years, including the construction of a 7200-panel solar farm in 2018, used to power to the accommodation village and Trepell Airport, used by Cannington’s workers.

In 2021, Cannington’s accommodation village was expanded and it now houses 145 rooms with ensuites, WIFI for team members to stay in contact with family and friends, a gym, pool and sports fields for use during recreation time.

Safety specialist Michael Casey began work at Cannington in 1996. He said “I have always found the people to be best thing about Cannington. I have worked with some amazing people over the years who have taught me and helped me get to where I am today.”