Almost 300 people gathered on Wednesday for a Timmins Chamber of Commerce ‘State of Mining’ event to get an update on the city’s historic gold mines. The presentation followed the January acquisition by Discovery of the historic Dome Mine and mill, Hoyle Pond and Pamour Mine from Newmont. Historic mines acquired Tony Makuch, Discovery’s president and chief executive officer, told the crowd that reestablishing the Dome Mine is a “game changer” for the region and he outlined his company’s ambitious vision for the projects. A vision for a million-ounce future Makuch predicted a long and prosperous mining future for Timmins, saying there are billions of dollars of gold beneath the city’s surface. His vision includes a substantial increase in production. “We’re going to transform Timmins … definitely well over half a million ounces a year,“ he said. “The work we’re doing with Hoyle Pond with that TVZ zone, I think, you know, we’re going to build a new underground gold mine over the next few years, as well, so those are pretty exciting.” Makuch said success in the area hinges on community and industry collaboration. “We need alignment of people and vision and people working together,” said Makuch. “You know, I think there’s a lot of things we can do together as a group, right? The only thing working against us is our energy, so if we all feel and say we want to do it, I’m sure we can accomplish it.” Skilled workforce for the next century The need for a skilled workforce to support the growth was also addressed. Anthony Lawley, president and CEO of Ivey Group, said he is actively working to ensure skilled workers are available. “We’re sourcing people from over 40 different countries across the world,” Lawley said. “From South America to the Philippines to Africa to even parts of Europe ... We do a lot of work with heavy equipment mechanics so they’re already … trained on Komatsu, Epiroc and Caterpillar.“ Makuch framed the revitalization of the gold mines as a generational opportunity, adding that now is the time to build on the community’s legacy. He said the people before us gave 100-plus great years and it’s time to set the future right for the next 100.
