Rob Cunningham will be sorely missed when he retires from his role at North Parkes Mines.
Rob features in this team photo from the early days which he looks back on fondly and with pride.
After an exceptional 29 years at Northparkes Mines, Rob Cunningham, Manager of Mining – Underground and Surface and Statutory ticket holder, announced his retirement in January 2023.
Rob started at Northparkes Mines on 27th January 1994 as an Ore Processing Operator, among the original intake of workers.
During his significant 29 years at Northparkes, he has held a number of operational and management roles, including: Underground Team Leader, Underground Superintendent, Open Cut Superintendent, Open Cut Manager, Tunnel Boring Systems and Major Projects Manager, Health, Safety, Environment and Farms Manager, Underground Mining Manager and Operations Manager.
During Rob’s time at Northparkes, which reads much like the timeline of site itself, he has seen how the mine has grown and played an instrumental role in the development and success of our operations. Rob has modelled passion and commitment for Zero Harm Operations and has made an incredibly noteworthy contribution to our operation and the mining industry.
In 2018, Rob was awarded the NSW Minerals Council ‘Outstanding Contribution to NSW Mining’, which is a prestigious award and highlights his accomplished career.
Upon reflecting on his time at Northparkes, Rob said, “I am lucky to have held so many great roles at one Mining business, all backed by the support of my beautiful wife and two great kids. I am also grateful to achieve all that I have in my mining career in my hometown – the place where I was born and in a community that I love.”
Managing Director Jianjun Tian said, “As we congratulate Rob on his many achievements, and thank him for his countless contributions to Northparkes, I would also like to extend my best wishes and gratitude towards Rob’s family for their support throughout the years. As Rob moves into retirement, we wish him and his family all the best for the next chapter of life.”
About CMOC-Northparkes Mines
Northparkes is a copper and gold mine located 27 kilometres north-west of Parkes, in the Central West of New South Wales. Since 1993 Northparkes has been celebrated for high-quality copper deposits, low cost operations and loyal, committed people. Northparkes is a joint venture between China Molybdenum Co., Ltd (CMOC) (80%) and the Sumitomo Groups (20%).