IQA president Michael Close interviews John O’Reilly from BDM Aggregates, Metso Australia, about sustainability, technology, and workforce.
Michael Close: What drives Metso’s commitment to supporting the Australian quarrying sector through the IQA?
John O’Reilly: The Australian quarrying sector is fundamental to building the infrastructure our communities depend on, and we see huge potential in how sustainability and technology can transform operations here.
Supporting the IQA aligns with our vision to be the number one choice for sustainable use of earth’s natural resources. The professional development, networking, and knowledge-sharing that the IQA facilitates helps operators embrace the technologies and practices that will define the future of quarrying.
We believe that when the sector advances through collaboration and shared learning, it benefits our customers, our business, and the broader community.
Close: Metso has set ambitious sustainability targets. How do you see Australian quarrying operations embracing these sustainable technologies?
O’Reilly: Australian operators are increasingly recognising that sustainability isn’t just about compliance, it’s about operational efficiency, cost reduction, and attracting the next generation.
Our Metso Plus products, which are more energy and carbon efficient in manufacture than benchmark technologies, are gaining strong traction here. We’re seeing operations embrace everything from energy-efficient crushing circuits to advanced process optimisation that reduces waste and improves recovery rates. It’s not about the feed rate to a crushing plant but the yield of highest value products. This is where Metso stands out.
Close: What role do you see professional development playing in helping the sector maximise technological advances?
O’Reilly: Technology is only as powerful as the people who operate and optimise it. Our digital solutions can analyse, automate, and optimise processes, but success depends on having skilled professionals who understand both the equipment and the data it generates. This is why Metso prides itself on educating the present and future professions, from operator to CEO though seminars and direct training classes.
The IQA’s focus on professional development is essential because it ensures the sector has people who can fully utilise these advances. We’ve learned that the most successful operations combine our innovative technology with well-trained teams who understand how to interpret data and make informed decisions.
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