Topdrill, a drilling contractor based in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, has entered into a partnership with Perth-based GeoMoby to incorporate the Protect technology into its operations. This marks the first instance of a large exploration drilling contractor fully integrating GeoMoby’s heritage site protection technology. The Protect technology utilises location services, including GPS, fusion sensors, and live-tracking algorithms, to establish geofences around heritage sites, triggering alerts if users approach these areas, even in remote locations with no connectivity.
Users can carry receivers on-person or in vehicles, machinery, or equipment, and the app is compatible with various devices, including smartphones and tablets. The technology allows on-site operators to create or upload geofences on a map, define alerts and triggers, and minimise battery drain on devices. Data is uploaded to a cloud-based platform with replay features and reporting capabilities for compliance purposes.
Tim Topham, the founder and managing director of Topdrill, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovative solutions and stated that incorporating GeoMoby’s Protect technology would enhance Topdrill’s ESG reporting for mining clients. GeoMoby director Mathieu Paul emphasised that the partnership would enhance the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage and environmental sites. Chris Baudia, GeoMoby’s founder and CEO, expressed confidence that their technology would become an industry standard, offering three main geolocation solutions for underground mining, surface mining, and cultural heritage protection. The technology will be showcased at an underground mine emergency response competition in Western Australia.