To bring a little extra fun and community spirit, we launched the BUMA Pool Tournament, giving youth a chance to showcase their skills, enjoy friendly competition, and feel the encouragement and care around them. A heartfelt thank you to our Blackwater and Brisbane teams involved in these initiatives.

The post BUMA Strengthens Support for Local Youth with PCYC Programs at Blackwater appeared first on BUMA Australia.

I’ve been at Goonyella for 9 years, working as a truck and water cart operator. I’ m also the HSE Representative for our crew.

How would you describe your career journey with BUMA during that time?

I’ve been happy working with BUMA. I enjoy my job and the opportunities that have been given to me over the years.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?

Spending time with my family.

Have you found any hobbies or interests that help you recharge after a rotation?

I enjoy relaxing, reading, and swimming.

Do you have any standout memories or milestones from the early days of the project?

Learning to be part of the mine site and working alongside autonomous trucks.

How have you seen the mine change over the years?

It has changed a lot, particularly with the introduction of autonomous trucks and changes across mining areas. Looking back, I feel proud to know I was part of that achievement.

What challenges have you encountered, and how have you overcome them?

Adjusting to change, especially with autonomous operations and new people coming and going. It doesn’t phase me too much, I feel proud to still be here as part of a wonderful team, and I enjoy helping new starters adapt.

What does it feel to work alongside a team that’s been together for almost a decade?

Amazing, I feel like part the furniture.

Which of BUMA’s values resonate with you the most, and how do they play out in your daily work?
Being part of a team. The support that’s available, helping others, and receiving and giving respect. I’ve been supported throughout my career, and I value being able to offer that same support to others.

What keeps you motivated to continue working at BUMA Goonyella?

Being part of a team that feels like my second family.

How do you see your near future with us?

Hopefully I can fulfil my career with BUMA until retirement.

Based on your experience, what advice would you offer to new starters joining the company?

I love working for BUMA and I really love to help new to the industry people adapt letting them know that Rome wasn’t built in a day, take their time listen to your trainer, and never be too shy to ask a question. People are approachable and happy to help.

The post Meet Gail! Our Truck and Water Cart Operator appeared first on BUMA Australia.

Johan Ballot, CEO of BUMA Australia, stated, “This extension underscores Whitehaven’s confidence in BUMA Australia to deliver safely and efficiently at scale across one of Queensland’s largest metallurgical coal operations. Our understanding of site conditions, strong local team, and consistent results enable us to sustain productivity while contributing to the long-term success of the Blackwater Mine.”

Located 20 kilometers south of the township of Blackwater, the mine spans an 80-kilometre strike length across multiple pits and remains a key economic driver in Central Queensland. BUMA Australia, together with its Predecessor Operations, has delivered mining services at Blackwater since 2012, employing approximately 390 permanent personnel and drawing on experience with the site’s complex geology. The company upholds industry-leading safety performance and leverages advanced monitoring systems, both third party and in-house for predictive maintenance and real-time fleet optimization.

“This renewed partnership with Whitehaven strengthens our portfolio of Tier-1 operations and reinforces BUMA’s reputation for delivering sustainable, world-class performance,” said Iwan Fuad Salim, Director of BUMA International Group. “It enhances the Group’s earnings visibility and cash-flow stability through long term partnerships with high-quality clients, while supporting our broader growth and diversification strategy.”

Beyond operations, BUMA Australia continues to generate local and social value across Central Queensland. At Blackwater, the company actively supports local initiatives through job creation, skills training, and its dedicated First Nations employment program. Its sponsorship of regional sporting teams and community events continues to foster local connections and contributes to long-term resilience.

Click here to download the Blackwater contract extension press release.

The post BUMA Australia Strengthens Long-Term Partnership at Blackwater Mine appeared first on BUMA Australia.

Our BUMA team, Troy Abell and Amanda Victor, connected with current Army, Air Force, and Navy members who showed genuine interest in transitioning into the mining industry, particularly in Diesel Fitting and maintenance roles.  A big thank you to Troy for his engaging and authentic presence on the panel, and to Amanda for her valuable contribution throughout the evening. We appreciate Salute for Service for hosting this initiative and look forward to continuing our support for veteran career pathways.

The post BUMA at Salute for Service Employer Panel appeared first on BUMA Australia.

This program reflects BUMA’s commitment to investing in the future of regional communities and helping students overcome the financial challenges of further education. In partnership with the Isolated Children’s Parent’s Association (ICPA) Queensland, six one-off scholarships of $2,500 were awarded for Semester 2, 2025.

Application process

Applications were accepted from 1 April to 16 May 2025, with eligibility based on enrolment status, community ties, and academic goals. Selection was made by BUMA representatives, with support from ICPA Queensland.

Celebrating our scholarship recipients

Thank you to all who applied for the BUMA Tertiary & Trade Scholarship and a special congratulations to this year’s recipients. Your dedication to your development and further education is commendable and we look forward to seeing the impact you’ll make within your community in years to come.

Their stories:

Each awardee brings a personal story of determination, goals, and connection to their community.

Thanks Anna, Ben, Jahna, Jorja, Reese and Tanasee for your thoughtful messages, we wish you success in your studies and future carriers!

The post BUMA Tertiary & Trade Scholarship appeared first on BUMA Australia.

Why did you decide to join BUMA and what motivated you to continue to pursue a career?
After school, I just wanted to get into mining because everyone was talking about it. It took me a few years to get in, but then through my family friend I got the chance. He referred me, I sent my resume, and I was hired within the first week. I started really young, about 21 – 22. Over the past three years, I’ve learned a lot, not just about work, but about life in general, especially from the older workers who’ve been in the industry a long time.

Can you tell us a bit about your career journey at Goonyella?
I started on the dump trucks and did that for about two years. Then I upskilled to the grader, and that’s what I’ve been operating ever since.

What specific skills or knowledge have you gained during this time?
One big thing I’ve learned is that you are never done learning. Every day there’s something new. You can’t think you know it all, because there is always more to learn. Keeping an open mind is important.

What is the exciting thing about your job?
I love my job. I like the seven days on, seven days off roster. But mostly, I enjoy working with my crew. I’ve been with the same crew for three years now, and they’re like family. We look after each other.

How would you describe the culture at BUMA?
I don’t know if it’s the same for every crew, but on C Crew the culture is amazing. It really feels like a second family. You spend half the year with these people, and of course there is the occasional drama, but overall everyone gets along and looks after each other.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
I spend a lot of time playing video games, going camping, and being with my partner and family. Nothing too crazy.

Do you have any skills or interests that might surprise your coworkers?
I wouldn’t say I have a special skill. I just try to do my best every day.

What has been your biggest accomplishment, either at work or outside of it, in the past few years?
At work, my biggest accomplishment would be upskilling. I always pushed myself to do more and improve. Outside of work, I’d say buying my first house. I bought it when I was 23, and now I’m 24.

The post Meet Richard! Our Goonyella Operator appeared first on BUMA Australia.

We enjoyed meeting both new and familiar faces, sharing career insights, and discussing industry pathways. It’s rewarding to engage with students eager to take the next step in their careers and hear their ambitions for the future.

We look forward to the next Student Meets Night in 2026!

The post Student Meets Night appeared first on BUMA Australia.

Each session is packed with energy, encouragement, and plenty of fun. Thanks to the great coaches from Mackay Basketball, our community partners, and the support from our Goonyella and Brisbane teams who helped make this initiative possible.

This program is a reflection of BUMA’s commitment to making a positive difference in the communities where we are part of.

The post BUMA Basketball Clinics in Nebo appeared first on BUMA Australia.

My role with BUMA Australia is Crew Trainer for B and C crew at Blackwater. I have been in this role for 4 years. Before I started working in the training department, I was an operator, operating haul trucks, graders, and dozers.

• How long have you worked at Blackwater? Can you tell us a bit about your career journey?

I arrived at the Blackwater site in 2012 with Downer as a green operator involved in a First Nations Traineeship. I then completed training for the grader. I spent a few years in the grader, then completed training in the dozer.

With the haul truck, grader and dozer skill, my shifts had plenty of variety, hot seating the different machines every swing. I then completed the training to be a Trainer Assessor.  After a couple of years in the field training, I completed the course for the Truck Simulator. That’s when I accepted the role of Crew Trainer.

• What is the exciting thing about your job?

I enjoy my position as Crew Trainer because of the people I meet. It’s also rewarding to be a part of someone’s journey to becoming a competent operator.

I was a part of the transition from Downer to BUMA Australia here in Blackwater in 2021/2022, and I have been with BUMA Australia since. In total, I’ve been at Blackwater for 13 and a half years.

The transition from policing to mining has been the best decision I’ve made. I’ve always felt supported in all my roles, and I have been blessed with great mentors.

• Which of BUMA’s values resonate with you the most, and how do they play out in your daily work?

In relation to BUMA’s values, the one that resonates with me is Safety. I value safety at work because, at the end of the day, going home to my family is the ultimate goal – not just for me, but for everyone I work with. And this also applies to mental health. I volunteered for the Mates In Mining program for this reason.

• What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?

When I’m home,  I enjoy doing activities with my boys, from the boys’ junior league to fishing. I love my cultural heritage. I’m heavily involved in learning about my culture from yarning with elders to protecting sacred sites on our country. I’m very fortunate that I have an employer that recognises my professional abilities and values my cultural connection.

The post Meet John appeared first on BUMA Australia.

The contract extends BUMA Australia’s operations at Goonyella through to September 2027. Under the agreement, BUMA Australia will continue deploying three prime fleets throughout the contract period.

Johan Ballot, CEO of BUMA Australia, commented, “This contract extension highlights our longstanding relationship with BMA and the deep trust we have built together with its joint venture partners. It marks another important milestone in our growth journey and reinforces our commitment to delivering safe, high-quality outcomes, further solidifying our reputation as a trusted mining services provider in Australia.”

Since 2022, BUMA Australia has provided labor, supervision, technical expertise, and mobile plant services for pre-strip operations and coal mining at the Goonyella Riverside Mine. In addition to its operational role, the company remains committed to the Isaac region, creating local employment opportunities and supporting key community initiatives. Through these efforts, BUMA Australia continues to play a meaningful role in fostering community development and driving regional economic growth.

“We remain focused on supporting BMA’s operations while continuing to contribute to the economic development of the local community,” Johan added.

The Goonyella Extension builds on BUMA Australia’s strong track record and growing presence in the Australian mining sector. Last year, BUMA Australia secured key contracts, including one awarded by Blackwater Operations Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of  Whitehaven Coal Mining Limited, for pre-strip mining services at the Blackwater Mine, and an AUD 400 million extension with TEC Coal Pty Ltd for continued operations at the Meandu Mine. These wins reflect the Group’s strategic focus on maintaining its
footprint while consistently delivering operational excellence and upholding the highest safety standards.

Iwan Fuad Salim, Director of BUMA International Group, stated, “BUMA Australia’s continued success in the Australian mining sector underscores our Group’s operational excellence and strong commitment to our core mining services business in Indonesia and Australia – two of the world’s leading coal jurisdictions. This contract extension with BMA reflects our capabilities and performance as a top-tier mining operator in both countries. We look forward to sustaining this momentum and pursuing further opportunities for growth.”

Click here to download the Goonyella contract extension press release.

The post Goonyella contract announcement appeared first on BUMA Australia.

What made you pursue a career in the mining industry?

I have always had a passion for operating machinery. Before I entered the mining industry, I worked in civil construction and was eager to work with some of the largest machines in the world. This desire led me to pursue a career in mining, and I was fortunate to begin my journey in gold mining in 1974.

What experience did you have prior to working with BUMA Australia?

I have 51 years of experience in the mining industry, beginning my career in Kalgoorlie in 1974. Throughout this time, I have witnessed significant changes in safety standards and technology. In 1991, I started working in iron ore mining at Mount Tom Price with Rio Tinto. During my time at Tom Price, I operated a variety of machinery, including shovels, diggers, dozers, graders, loaders, trucks, and floats.

In 2002, I took on a new challenge by transferring to Meandu with Rio Tinto, relocating my family to Kingaroy to embrace this opportunity. I worked at Meandu until 2008 when I transferred to Clermont Coal Mine.

How long have you worked with us?

Almost 12 months.

In your recent time at BUMA, what have you enjoyed most about the work?

I wanted to work with BUMA as a Proficiency Training Specialist because I’m passionate about helping people improve and succeed. I enjoy sharing knowledge and skills in an engaging and practical way, ensuring that individuals become efficient and safe operators. As a Proficiency Training Specialist, I can directly impact both individuals and teams, enhancing their performance, motivation, and job satisfaction. Additionally, I love learning myself; every training session provides an opportunity to connect, adapt, and grow alongside others.

What was it like when you first started working with us?

When I began my journey with BUMA, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. Not only was I new to the Proficiency program, but it was also a new initiative for BUMA. However, I quickly felt welcomed and supported, which made the transition much easier. Eager to learn and contribute, I found my rhythm and confidence growing over time. Seeing how much I’ve developed since those first days has been incredibly rewarding.

What do you like to do when you are not at work?

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family at our beach house. My grandchildren are my heart, and I cherish the moments I spend with them. I also love riding my bicycle; on my days off, I typically ride about 70 km.

Do you have any skills or interests that might surprise your coworkers?

I proudly hold a brown belt in Taekwondo, reflecting my five years of dedication to martial arts. I also have a passion for classic cars, having owned impressive models like a 1966 XR Falcon Sedan and a 1973 Holden HQ Statesman Deville. Each car represents my love for craftsmanship and timeless design.

The post Meet Lucky! Our Proficiency Training Specialist appeared first on BUMA Australia.

This initiative, organised by @Red Earth Community Foundation, develops emerging leaders from community, business, and government sectors to drive change in their regions.

Over the past few weeks, Kyle and Mandy have worked alongside other local leaders to enhance their skills and explore ways to create a positive community impact.

Fantastic to see them embrace opportunities that contribute to both personal and professional growth.

Well done, Kyle and Mandy!

The post Kyle and Mandy leading the way appeared first on BUMA Australia.