Evolution Mining's Managing Director and CEO, Lawrie Conway, was hosted by Parkes Shire Mayor, Councillor Neil Westcott, and Deputy Mayor, Councillor Marg Applebee, on Friday 8 December, following the announcement of Evolution's binding agreement with CMOC Group Limited (CMOC) to acquire CMOC's 80% interest in Northparkes Mine.
Evolution Mining, an ASX listed company, is a leading, globally relevant gold miner, with a current portfolio of five wholly-owned mines in Australia and Canada.
Cr Westcott reflected on the close working relationship between CMOC and the Parkes Shire community over the past 10 years, and expressed his support for the acquisition.
"We sincerely thank the CMOC Group for their participation in the community since they took ownership of Northparkes in December 2013. Might I especially acknowledge Managing Director, Jianjun Tian, for his leadership and his friendship," Cr Westcott said.
"This transaction marks the end of an era, but having met Evolution's executive team, I feel very confident in the future of Northparkes and the security of those working there.
"Just as CMOC have been a great corporate citizen, Evolution has a track record of working with the community in a meaningful way, which is very exciting for Parkes and the region. We welcome Evolution Mining to Parkes," added Cr Westcott.
Mr Conway explained, "Our relationship with our community is very important to us and sustainability is integrated into everything we do. In this and other aspects, we see remarkable synergies with Northparkes.
"Our acquisition of Northparkes reinforces our commitment to owning and operating long-life gold and copper assets in NSW. We are excited by the opportunities this will afford people and the communities in which we proudly operate. Since it was established 30 years ago, Northparkes has made a significant contribution to Central West NSW and we look forward to building on the work that's been done before us.
"Over the last 12 years we have evolved from a small company into a globally relevant gold mining business with a reputation of delivering value for all stakeholders. Underpinning this is our Australian story and spirit," Mr Conway concluded.
Sumitomo, a valued member of the Parkes Business community, will retain their 20% interest in the Northparkes Joint Venture.
The transaction is expected to close before Christmas, which will see Evolution Mining assume its ownership of Northparkes.
Image L-R: Evolution Mining Secretary and Vice President IT, Communications and Corporate Affairs, Evan Elstein; Managing Director and CEO, Lawrie Conway; Parkes Shire Mayor, Cr Neil Westcott; Deputy Mayor, Cr Marg Applebee; Evolution Mining General Manager Communications and Corporate Affairs, Justine Fisher.
