Enhancing Field Communications for Rio Tinto’s Remote Bauxite Exploration Team

AustraliaMiningHypha satellite push-to-talk solution 9 January, 2025

Deploying annually to remote and rugged Cape York, Rio Tinto’s Bauxite Exploration Team is tasked with sample collection and geo-mapping for resources exploration. 

In the absence of cellular coverage and limited by traditional two-way radio, Rio Tinto turned to Hypha for a specialised satellite push-to-talk (PTT) and portable broadband solution to bridge this communication gap. 

Challenges

Remote locations

Cellular coverage ends soon after departing Weipa, and two-way radios offer limited reach. 

Safety concerns

A previous emergency saw team members travel over an hour to reach radio coverage to request help.

Environmental obstacles

Dense vegetation and canopy hinder signal reception, making satellite only partially effective.

Solution

Deployable communication kits

16 portable satellite PTT kits enable Rio Tinto’s team members to maintain contact and asset tracking regardless of location. 

Vehicle-based connectivity

Starlink units on main field vehicles facilitate broadband connectivity for on-location mapping and geospatial tools. 

Future expansion plans

Hypha's plan includes incorporating a duress feature across all kits, as an additional layer of security for field teams. 

The deployable kits Hypha provided allowed us to stay connected in real-time, which
has made our operations safer and more efficient up at Cape York.

Josh Lee, Field Project Coordinator, Rio Tinto

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Outcome

Better safety

Teams can now always call for assistance, reducing emergency response times and enhancing safety. 

Improved efficiency

Real-time data sharing and communication reduces the number of trips back to base camp, increasing productivity. 

Strong user experience

The ease of deployment and compatibility with existing equipment meant team members required minimal extra training. 

The new system means that Rio Tinto can maintain situational awareness across their field teams.