A lasting legacy: Mount Isa Mines’ longest serving employee

It’s a legacy to be proud of.

For 54-years John has worked for Mount Isa Mines (MIM) in its copper operations, forging a career defined by hard work, loyalty, and deep community ties.

As MIM’s longest serving employee, John is as much part of the furniture as the headframes and iconic stacks that define the town’s skyline. 

John first stepped on site on 24 November 1970, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey.

He spent three decades working in the underground copper mines as a driller and ringfirer, honing his skills and building strong bonds with the people he worked alongside.

Later, he transitioned into the role of Trainer Assessor, sharing a lifetime of knowledge with a new generation of underground miners.

As Mount Isa Copper Operations nears its closure in July 2025, John admits the change is difficult but looks back on his time at MIM with a sense of gratitude and quiet pride.

“I feel deeply sad, mainly for the community,” John says.

“Some people might not have the same opportunities I had.”

John credits MIM with offering him more than a job - it gave him a stable career and opportunity.

Through it, he was able to raise a family, including his three children and now four grandchildren. That security also allowed him and his wife of 53-years, Julie, to explore Australia and travel overseas together in recent years.

Ask John what he’ll miss the most about working at MIM, and the answer is simple: the people.

“When you work hard for long hours, you build strong connections,” he explains.

“Living in a small community means you work and play together. No matter where I travel now, I always bump into a familiar face from Mount Isa.”