Sharing knowledge and strengthening tailings management practices: Spectrum at ANCOLD TDOF 2026
Spectrum Consultants recently attended the 2026 ANCOLD Tailings Dam Operators Forum in Devonport, Tasmania, bringing together industry professionals to share experiences, discuss challenges and explore practical approaches to tailings dam management.
The forum provided a valuable opportunity to connect with operators, engineers, consultants and industry representatives from across Australia, with a strong focus on improving tailings dam governance, monitoring and surveillance practices.
Learning from industry and sharing experience
One of the key themes from the forum was the importance of effective Tailings Dam Management Plans, Trigger Action Response Plans (TARPs), monitoring systems and surveillance frameworks.
The discussions reinforced the importance of having robust processes in place to identify risks early, respond effectively and support safe, informed decision-making throughout the lifecycle of a tailings facility.
At Spectrum, these principles have been central to our approach for many years. The conversations highlighted the value of continually reviewing practices, sharing knowledge and working collaboratively across the industry to improve tailings management outcomes.
Building stronger industry connections
Beyond the technical discussions, the forum was a great opportunity to reconnect with long-standing industry colleagues and build new relationships across the tailings and dam management community.
We congratulate Klem Cahill and the organising committee for delivering an excellent event, creating a valuable environment for open discussion, knowledge sharing and collaboration. Devonport provided a fantastic setting for bringing the industry together.
We also appreciated the opportunity to participate in the field trip hosted by Bluestone Mines and MMG, providing delegates with practical insights into operational environments and real-world challenges.
Expanding the conversation beyond mining
It was also encouraging to see representatives from energy organisations, including AGL and CS Energy, participating in the forum.
While tailings and ash dams are often discussed within mining contexts, the same principles of governance, surveillance and risk management apply across a range of industries. The involvement of these organisations demonstrated the broader importance of strengthening dam management practices and sharing lessons across sectors.
Continuing to support practical outcomes
Events such as the ANCOLD Tailings Dam Operators Forum play an important role in bringing together the people responsible for managing critical infrastructure and sharing the knowledge needed to support safe and sustainable outcomes.
Spectrum Consultants remains committed to working alongside clients and industry partners to deliver practical solutions across tailings management, dam engineering, monitoring and governance.
Thank you to ANCOLD, the organising committee, sponsors and delegates for creating a valuable opportunity to connect, learn and contribute to the ongoing advancement of industry practice.
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Ready to apply these insights to your next project? Contact the Spectrum team to discuss practical solutions tailored to your operational and engineering challenges.
