Westfill awarded backfill and workforce training contract at Khoemacau Copper Mine

Executive Manager, Jordan Marshall said: “Extension of our specialist backfill and engineering work internationally, specifically in Botswana, has been a long term strategic goal of the company, and is testament to the quality of work and client-contractor relationship which exists between Westfill, MMG, and JCHX.”

Combines backfill delivery with on-site capability building

The scope of work centres on the implementation and optimisation of backfill systems across the operation, alongside a structured training programme designed to upskill local crews.

Westfill’s involvement spans underground reticulation installation, paste plant, and fixed plant support, as well as laboratory-based testing of paste samples during live pours. These activities are aimed at improving consistency, performance, and overall system reliability.

A key priority of the contract is transferring knowledge directly to site personnel. Operators and team members will be trained across underground and surface functions, covering everything from paste production and placement through to testing, monitoring, and maintenance practices.

Embedding real-time monitoring and standardised processes

The project also marks the first full operational deployment of Westfill’s desktop and tablet application, GOAL. The platform is used to track operator development, monitor performance, and provide a structured framework for training delivery. By aligning training outcomes with real-time operational data, the system is improving visibility across teams and supports more consistent execution of backfill activities.

Delivery is led by a specialised Westfill team of 11 personnel, headed by Westfill Project Manager, James Purchase. The key roles in the project and mobilised on site are underground paste crew trainers, senior paste plant operators and trainers, maintenance foremen and trainers, and laboratory technicians.

The team will work closely with JCHX personnel to integrate into existing operations while introducing refined processes and training frameworks.

Building on established site relationships

The contract follows ongoing involvement from Westfill personnel supporting backfill engineering activities on site since the middle of 2025 and a workshop held in September 2025 for the senior MMG backfill and mining team. This existing presence has contributed to the development of operational procedures, including standard operating processes and fill strategies.

The award reflects continued collaboration between project stakeholders and confidence in Westfill’s ability to support both technical delivery and workforce development.

With a dual focus on execution and education, the program is designed to leave a lasting impact beyond the contract term. By equipping local teams with the skills and systems required to manage backfill operations independently, the project aims to support safer, more efficient mining outcomes over the long term.

Purchase said: “This project represents more than just the delivery of a service. It’s the beginning of a strong partnership between Westfill and JCHX. We’re proud to bring our Australian backfill expertise to support one of Africa’s leading mining operations while working alongside the JCHX and MMG team to build a safe, reliable and sustainable backfill operation. By combining our experience with JCHX’s local knowledge we’re helping develop local capability, improve operational performance, and deliver long term value. We’re excited about what we can achieve together and look forward to building on this relationship.”

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/mining/13072026/westfill-awarded-backfill-and-workforce-training-contract-at-khoemacau-copper-mine/