Meet the People | Danni, Driller Posted on February 13, 2025May 29, 2025 by georgia When Danni joined Ausdrill nearly three years ago as an offsider, she was determined to keep moving forward, and that’s exactly what happened. “I didn’t get stuck as an offsider. I didn’t get stuck as a trainee driller. They just kept me going.” Career Growth, Day by Day At Ausdrill, we believe in supporting our people. Whether it’s career progression or the day-to-day teamwork that keeps sites running smoothly, support is always part of the story. “Everyone is super supportive and will help you. No job’s too big or too small. Everyone just jumps in; you get it done.” A Team That Has Your Back Danni’s experience reflects the core of Ausdrill’s approach: people first, progress always. From offsider to driller, she shows how the right support, and the right crew, makes a difference. At Ausdrill, we know that no job is too small and no goal too big. Contact us to learn how you can join our team and take your career forward.
30 Years of the Rock Commander | A Legacy of Innovation Posted on February 10, 2025May 29, 2025 by georgia From the pioneering Tamatsu DR76 in 1993 to the state-of-the-art Rock Commander of today, Ausdrill’s rigs have continuously redefined safety, efficiency, and performance in mining. A Journey of Progress Built to improve safety at the Super Pit, the Tamatsu DR76 marked the start of a journey that has seen three decades of innovation. Since then, Ausdrill has introduced: Down Hole Hammer technology for deeper, faster drilling Trimble Groundworks integration for precision and data tracking Semi-autonomous features for enhanced safety and efficiency Where We Are Today Today’s Rock Commander rigs stand as the culmination of 30 years of engineering and real-world experience. They’re built to meet the toughest ground conditions while setting benchmarks for: Performance in every environment Durability that keeps operations moving Precision that empowers smarter decision-making See how the Rock Commander works with One Touch Drilling to deliver hands-free precision. Contact Ausdrill to learn how 30 years of innovation can elevate your next drilling project.
Patented Ausdrill Auto Sampler | Raising the Bar for Safety and Sampling Precision Posted on January 27, 2025May 13, 2025 by georgia Ausdrill’s Auto Sampler is changing how grade control samples are collected and handled in the field. This patented system eliminates the need for a worker to manually sample at the cyclone, significantly reducing exposure to air contaminants, dust, noise, and adverse weather. By automating the process and integrating RayTrac RFID technology, the Auto Sampler allows for fully traceable, contactless sampling, improving safety, sample integrity, and cost-efficiency across operations. Why the Auto Sampler is a Game Changer Safety First: Operators no longer need to work near high-risk zones. Sampling happens automatically, reducing exposure to dust, weather, and machinery. Real-Time Tracking: RFID tags follow each sample from extraction to client delivery, ensuring full transparency and data integrity. Integrated Performance: The Auto Sampler seamlessly connects to Ausdrill’s Rock Commander and exploration rigs, delivering hands-free efficiency from drill to database. Labour Efficiency: With automation handling repetitive sampling tasks, fewer people are required at the rig, allowing shifts to focus on productivity and value-add work. Award-Winning Innovation The Auto Sampler has earned multiple industry awards for its contribution to mining safety and innovation, including: 🏆 2021 Work Health & Safety Excellence Awards – Invention of the Year (with BHP) 🥈 2020 BHP HSEC Awards – Merit Award for Safety 🎖 2020 BHP HSEC Innovation Awards – Finalist Contact Ausdrill to explore how the Auto Sampler can improve safety and sampling performance on your next project.
1550 Diamond Drill Rig | Safer, Smarter, Stronger Posted on January 21, 2025May 29, 2025 by georgia The future of diamond drilling is here — and it’s bold, safe, and operator-focused. Ausdrill’s new 1550TH Diamond Drill Rig is redefining industry standards with a caged barrier system, AI-enhanced safety zones, and remote operation via Cortex™ software. Designed from the ground up for performance and protection, the 1550TH takes on tough ground without compromising on safety or speed. With 9 meters of mast travel and a powerful electric-over-hydraulic setup, the rig delivers 9-meter rod pulls in a single pass. Whether collaring, pulling rods, or relocating between sites, automation and remote monitoring streamline every part of the process. Technology That Works for People We spoke to Operations Supervisor Jesse Herbert about how the 1550TH is changing the field experience. Built with feedback from drillers, this rig prioritises visibility, safety, and simplicity — even for newer operators. From AI-enabled exclusion zones to hands-free operation and simplified training, the 1550TH is built for those who do the work. Want to see innovation in softer terrain? Explore our Lake Drilling capabilities and how Ausdrill rigs adapt to salt lakes and seasonal challenges. Contact Ausdrill to learn how the 1550 Diamond Drill Rig can enhance your operations.
The Rock Commander | Safety, Reliability, and Performance Posted on September 3, 2024May 29, 2025 by georgia The Rock Commander is one of Ausdrill’s most trusted and innovative rigs, a proven performer that has reshaped the way we tackle challenging terrains and voids since its launch in 2011. Built with operator safety and project efficiency at the core, the Rock Commander combines an ergonomic design with advanced automation to deliver consistent, high-quality results across Australia’s toughest mining conditions. Designed for Operator Safety and Productivity Every feature of the Rock Commander is engineered to protect and empower our crews: Ergonomic cab design for improved visibility and operator comfort Mast that lays flat for safe, easy maintenance access Automated sampling to streamline workflow and reduce exposure Starlink and Trimble Systems for advanced remote access and training flexibility Reliability That Lasts With an operational lifespan that often exceeds 50,000 hours, the Rock Commander delivers exceptional reliability and value for our clients. It’s a rig that’s built to handle the toughest ground conditions and keep performing shift after shift. Engineered by Experts, Supported by Ausdrill At Ausdrill, we don’t just operate the Rock Commander. We design, build, maintain, and refine these rigs ourselves. That means every drill pad benefits from our decades of in-house expertise and our ongoing commitment to innovation. See how the Rock Commander integrates with One Touch Drilling for automated precision and reduced operator exposure.Contact Ausdrill to learn how the Rock Commander can elevate your project with safety, reliability, and performance.
One Touch Rock Commander | Drilling Simplified, Safety Enhanced Posted on April 11, 2024May 29, 2025 by georgia Ausdrill is proud to introduce One Touch Drilling, a ground-breaking enhancement to the Rock Commander platform that sets a new standard for safety, efficiency, and precision in mining operations. With the One Touch Rock Commander, a single button triggers an entire drill cycle, from touching the ground to collaring and drilling to the exact pre-set depth. The rig even manages rod changing and hole flushing, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing operator exposure to high-risk zones. How One Touch Works One Touch technology empowers drillers to pre-select the hole depth and let the machine handle every other step. No guesswork. No repetitive manual adjustments. Automated collaring and hole drilling Hands-free rod changes Automated hole flushing Precision drilling to depth targets This automation not only reduces operator fatigue and exposure but also minimises wear and tear on components, boosting rig longevity and delivering consistent, high-quality results. One Touch Rock Commander is a New Benchmark for Safety and Efficiency By removing the need for constant manual adjustments, One Touch Drilling keeps drillers focused and out of harm’s way. It’s a smarter approach that saves time, reduces human error, and ultimately lowers costs across every shift. Contact Ausdrill to see how One Touch Drilling can transform your operations, making them safer, smarter, and more cost-effective.
Lake Drilling | Ausdrill’s Capability in Lake Environments Posted on January 1, 2024May 29, 2025 by georgia Lake drilling presents unique challenges, but Ausdrill makes it possible with custom-built rigs, experienced crews, and a proven track record across Australia’s remote salt lakes. With the largest specialised fleet for hard-to-access areas, we deliver safe, effective drilling solutions across Australia’s most remote lake systems. Our custom-built lake drilling rigs span air core, reverse circulation (RC), and diamond core, supported by vehicles like Hagglunds, buggies, and robust recovery tools. This short video gives an overview of our capability in lake environments, where logistics, safety, and precision must work in harmony. From rig stability on soft terrain to mobilisation across water-covered surfaces, every element has been engineered to withstand the challenge. Behind the gear is a skilled workforce with extensive experience in lake drilling and fragile ground conditions. Our teams know how to maintain productivity while managing water levels, variable geology, and environmental requirements, ensuring smooth, low-impact operations and high-quality sample recovery. 5 Reasons Ausdrill Leads in Lake Drilling Largest Specialised FleetWe operate the most extensive lake drilling fleet in Australia, with rigs tailored for air core, RC, and diamond core applications in soft terrain. Custom Support VehiclesHagglunds, buggies, and amphibious recovery vehicles allow safe, low-impact movement across sensitive lake environments. Proven Expertise in Remote ConditionsOur teams have a long history of successful delivery in remote, seasonal, and salt lake regions. Environmental AwarenessWe prioritise minimal ground disturbance and adhere to strict environmental protocols throughout each program. End-to-End CapabilityAusdrill offers full-service management—from planning and mobilisation to drilling, sampling, and safe demobilisation. Whether you’re looking to drill in intermittent lakes or highly active salt lakes, Ausdrill’s lake drilling services are built to adapt. 🎥 Watch the video below to see how we mobilise, operate, and deliver under challenging conditions. Contact Ausdrill to discuss how our lake drilling expertise can support your next project.
Meet the People | Sonam Lama, Driller Posted on December 6, 2023May 29, 2025 by georgia For over 16 years, Sonam has been an integral part of Ausdrill’s operations at Gold Fields’ St Ives site in Western Australia. His unwavering commitment and extensive experience have made him a cornerstone of our drilling team. Beyond his technical expertise, Sonam is renowned for his mentorship. He consistently offers guidance to younger drillers, fostering their growth and development. This dedication to nurturing talent embodies the true spirit of Ausdrill. But Sonam’s contributions don’t end at the drill site. He’s also celebrated for his culinary skills, particularly his homemade Tibetan dumplings, known as momos. The incredible aroma from his humpy is a testament to his cultural heritage and his role in building a close-knit community among his colleagues. At Ausdrill, we take pride in our team’s diverse talents and unwavering dedication. Contact us to learn more about our people and the opportunities that await you.
Unlocking Precision | Ausdrill’s Multidirectional Drilling Capabilities Posted on November 27, 2023May 29, 2025 by georgia Multidirectional drilling is a game-changer in exploration and resource recovery, and at Ausdrill, we lead the way with proven results in complex, hard-to-reach environments. Our multidirectional drilling capability brings together operator expertise, fit-for-purpose rigs, and real-time problem-solving to target complex ore bodies in challenging terrain. This flexible approach allows us to drill at multiple angles from a single drill pad, boosting recovery while reducing environmental impact and overall project costs. From navigating surface restrictions to reaching layered deposits, Ausdrill crews have the experience and adaptability to keep the drill turning and the data flowing — even when conditions shift unexpectedly. Experience Meets Precision in Multidirectional Drilling Multidirectional drilling isn’t just about technology — it’s about people. At Ausdrill, we draw on decades of hands-on experience, combining agile planning with custom rigs and field intelligence to deliver results where others might stop. Tools like COMPASS™ software help support trajectory control and data tracking, but it’s our people who make the system work. With experience across angled access, constrained sites, and dynamic geology, Ausdrill’s multidirectional drilling services help maximise return on every drill pad. Explore how we tackle soft terrain in extreme conditions — check out our Lake Drilling capabilities. Contact Ausdrill to see how we can support your next multidirectional drilling project.
Meet the People | Olivia, Driller’s Offsider Posted on August 3, 2023May 29, 2025 by georgia Olivia’s journey into the mining industry is a testament to courage and determination. Transitioning from a gym instructor in New South Wales to becoming the first female driller’s offsider at Ausdrill’s Leinster operations, she has paved the way for women in a traditionally male-dominated field. “I was the first female to start up here at Leinster, and I want to keep progressing and showing that women can do this.” Inspired by a friend’s experience in mining, Olivia embraced the challenge, demonstrating that with the right mindset and support, career shifts are not only possible but can lead to fulfilling and impactful roles. Empowering Women in Mining At Ausdrill, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Olivia’s story is a shining example of how support and determination can break down barriers and inspire change within the industry. Ready to embark on a rewarding career in mining? Discover opportunities with Ausdrill and be part of a team that values growth, diversity, and innovation. Explore Careers
