Why operator voices will play a key part at IMARC 2025

IMARC 2025 promises to bring operational expertise and new voices to the table.

Accessibility, relevance, and fresh perspectives are three key drivers for IMARC 2025, according to the event’s director for content and partnerships.

IMARC event director for content and partnerships Sherene Asnasyous told Australian Mining that IMARC, now in its 14th year, has grown significantly in scope and scale over the past few years.

“Over the last few years, the exhibition has expanded to include more organisations showcasing mining equipment, technology, and services that enable productivity, innovation, and new ways of achieving operational excellence,” Asnasyous said.

She said that while that growth had made the event a major success, there was a strong desire to ensure IMARC continued to provide the best experience across all aspects of the industry.

“As a result, we have focused on increasing the number of mine operators who come to Sydney to be part of the event. We asked ourselves: how do we get more of these operators to attend?” she said.

Brand new in 2025, the Mining Operators Series will focus on the people driving results on the ground. With technical presentations, miners-only networking, CPD points and guided expo tours, it is shaping up as a must-attend for frontline professionals, tailored specifically for operators, engineers, supervisors and managers.

“This year, IMARC is more accessible and relevant for miners at an operational level,” Asnasyous said.

The operator series will explore a wide range of industry issues from an operational perspective, including technological advances and adoption, balancing productivity and operational excellence with cost efficiency, and the continuous quest for value.

Talks and panel discussions will feature key operational personnel from the likes of BHP, Rio Tinto, Newmont, Evolution Mining and more, sharing their knowledge and experience with attendees.

Asnasyous added that alongside experts from Tier 1 companies, this year’s program would showcase a broader range of perspectives.

“Another key step has been ensuring more mine operators are speaking at the conference,” she said. “We are delighted to welcome operators who have not spoken at many conferences before – new voices on the speaker circuit.

“They will be sharing case studies and insights into challenges and opportunities at their mine sites, with topics ranging from productivity issues and the use of AI to asset management, maintenance, sustainability, and project development.”

In a major move to bring more operational leaders into the fold, IMARC has expanded its free mining guest pass program.

This year, eligible on-site employees of mining and energy companies, as well as contract miners, can access the full breadth of the event – including the entire conference program, exhibition, daily networking functions, and an exclusive miners’ event.

Eligible roles include mine site operators, engineers, supervisors, operations, procurement, supply, maintenance, technology, innovation, and asset management.

“We’ve expanded the free mining guest pass to welcome even more operators who play a vital role in keeping operations and plants running smoothly. Opening the doors this way has made the event much more accessible,” she said.

Recognising the importance many attendees place on continuous professional development (CPD), IMARC has also expanded opportunities for professional learning.

“We increased the number of ways attendees can earn CPD points, aligning this with the content on offer. For example, case studies from companies like Glencore or Whitehaven Coal could be used towards CPD accreditation. This initiative will be recognised by organisations such as AusIMM, Engineers Australia, and others,” Asnasyous said.

She added that another highlight was the rise in joint presentations between sponsors and their clients.

“Instead of just product showcases, these sessions focus on the real-world application of technology. For example, Viridien is co-presenting with Glencore, DXC Technology with Whitehaven Coal, and Hexagon with Gold Fields. That kind of collaboration adds real value to the program.”

Held from October 21–23 at ICC Sydney, IMARC 2025 will welcome more than 10,000 delegates from over 120 countries.

With more than 450 expert speakers, over 500 exhibitors and 20,000 square metres of dynamic expo space, IMARC will see mining’s most influential minds and emerging ideas collide. 

Eligible personnel from mining companies and contractors can attend IMARC for free with a Mining Guest Pass. For non-mining companies, use code HVXE75 for 15 per cent off Delegate Passes or D3DF6B for a free Expo Visitor Pass.