Gold Mining Company Halts Operations Due to Fuel Shortages

0:00Sydney's story is making news on March 17th. A small gold mining company in Western Australia is halting operations and standing down two-thirds of its 180 fly-in fly-out workers. Because of fuel shortages, Bluecap mining says it only has enough diesel for less than two weeks at normal rates. The shortage is stemmed from the war in the Middle East, disrupting supplies. Smaller miners like Bluecap rely on independent distributors and sit low on the priority list compared to big players. The company plans the cut production until fuel becomes reliable, expecting just 30 to 40% of normal deliveries once or twice a week. Company leader James Fraser called it frustrating and unfair, similar to challenges during COVID. Western Australia premiere Roger Cook described the situation as very concerning, instead the government is reaching out to help prioritize fuel, trucks. Industry users 35% of Australia's diesel, about 9.6 billion liters last financial year,

1:00up over 90% in the past decade. One large haul truck alone can guzzle 1 million liters a year. Industry groups warn this shows commercial fuel chains breaking down with other goldfields operators facing similar issues. Officials meet daily to tackle shortages ahead of farming and mining needs. The daily news now is presented by our sponsor. If earbuds fall out when you sleep, this is for you, a pillow with built in sound, so L.I. SoleyPillow.com.