When PETRA first began developing digital pit-to-plant models using orebody learning technology, the idea of using machine learning to optimise blasting was considered experimental. Fast forward seven years, and the approach is now a proven, industry-adopted method for improving mine productivity and process performance.
At the upcoming 9th Drill & Blast Down Under Conference 2025, hosted by the International Society of Explosives Engineers (ISEE) Australian Chapter, PETRA CEO Dr Penny Stewart and Australasian Mining Services Business Improvement Manager Matt Trueman will share the story of those pioneering years in their joint presentation, The Early Years of Digital Pit-to-Plant Using Orebody Learning Technology.
Drawing on case studies from three Western Australian iron ore operations between 2018 and 2021, the presentation explores how data fusion ore tracking and machine learning created digital twins capable of predicting throughput, crusher downtime, and other key performance measures for each blast design.
The retrospective also delves into the human side of digital transformation, highlighting what helped these projects succeed and what nearly stopped them.
“Introducing a new software in a busy mining operation is never simple,” said Dr Stewart. “But when engineers can visualise the cost–benefit of each design and test ideas without disrupting production, adoption grows especially when continuous improvement teams are also involved. The early models proved that you can learn a lot from your orebody without ever running a physical trial.”
Trueman said the learnings remain highly relevant to today’s mining environment. “We’re still tackling the same questions about change management and data quality,” he said. “The difference now is that the industry has a decade of experience showing how data science and orebody learning can deliver measurable improvements.”
Their presentation will offer a rare look behind the curtain at the formative period of orebody learning – when curiosity, collaboration, and courage shaped a new era in digital mining.
ISEE Australian Chapter’s 9th Drill & Blast Down Under Conference runs from Tuesday, 4 November to Thursday, 6 November 2025 at The Star Gold Coast, Broadbeach, Queensland.
The conference brings together blasting engineers, drill-and-blast practitioners, technology providers, and regulators to share case studies and explore the future of blast design and optimisation.
For tickets and more information about the event, visit www.iseeaustralia.org.
