Running together for a stronger community: Glencore celebrates the 7in700 challenge

At Glencore, we are deeply proud to call Mount Isa home. The 7in700 challenge, an awe-inspiring initiative led by local resident James Coghlan, has reminded us all of the incredible strength, resilience and compassion that defines this community.

James's journey was nothing short of heroic: 700 kilometres run in just nine days, spanning seven North West mine sites, all to raise funds and awareness for the Mount Isa Hospital Cancer Care Unit. His mission was deeply personal, honouring the memory of his late wife Fiona, who bravely battled cancer and received care from the very unit he now champions.

In recognition of James’s remarkable effort, and as part of Glencore’s ongoing commitment to the wellbeing of our region, Mount Isa Mines was proud to donate more than $10,000 worth of essential medical equipment to the Mount Isa Cancer Care Unit. These resources will help ensure that more local families can access the care and support they need right here in Mount Isa, close to home and loved ones.

The final five kilometres of James’s run were some of the most emotional. Despite injury and infection, he pushed through, fuelled by the unwavering support of the Mount Isa community. And we at Glencore were honoured to be part of that moment. Members of our Health, Safety, Environment and Community (HSEC) team laced up their runners and joined James on his final stretch to Kruttschnitt Oval.

We were inspired not only by James’s determination, but by the sea of supporters who lined the streets, students and families waving signs, and the heartfelt words spoken by his daughter Charlotte at the finish line. It was a profound example of what can happen when community spirit meets shared purpose.

At Glencore, giving back to the communities where we operate isn’t just a value, it’s a responsibility we carry with pride. From investing in local healthcare to supporting education, training and regional infrastructure, we’re committed to helping Mount Isa thrive long into the future.

James reminded us that one individual can spark a wave of change. But when a community runs together, supported by neighbours, businesses, and friends, that change becomes unstoppable.