Steel Town: The Push
Podcast Description:
In this episode of Steel Town, host Kelly Fedor speaks with Liberty Primary Metals Australia (LPMA) CEO Sandip Biswas about the current state of play in Whyalla including a new term sheet for operations and the significant changes shaping the future of the steelworks in Whyalla. Also, hear from the team behind the scenes at the rolling mill and learn about the collaborative spirit driving both the local workforce and the future of green steel production. Plus, we discuss the impact of GFG’s sponsorship of the Shooting Stars program, supporting Indigenous women and girls to reach their full potential.
Podcast Notes:
0:00 - Introduction

Host Kelly Fedor introduces the episode and its focus on the blast furnace recovery and recent developments at Liberty Primary Metals Australia (LPMA).

2:05 - CEO Sandip Biswas on recent developments

LPMA negotiates a $150 million AUD term sheet with a global credit fund.
The funding will support blast furnace maintenance, operations, and suppliers.
A recap of the $400 million support already provided by GFG over the past two years.

6:20 - Supplier and steelworks Updates

Daily, collaborative talks between LPMA and its suppliers.
Ongoing efforts to ensure the success of the steelworks and the ramp-up of production.

10:35 - The current state of the steel market

Sandip Biswas discusses the global challenges in the steel industry, citing it as one of the toughest periods in recent history.
LPMA’s proactive approach and efforts to manage the downturn.

13:50 - Transition to magnetite mining

LPMA’s shift from hematite to magnetite mining, an essential part of its green iron and steel strategy.
The importance of this transition for sustainable production in the future.

17:10 - The Rolling Mill and green steel strategy

The crucial role of the rolling mill in LPMA's future vision for greener steel production.
Updates on new initiatives to produce more sustainable, low-carbon footprint steel.

22:05 - The final step in steelmaking: The Rolling Mill team

Interviews with Thomas Carpenter and Jack Haines, who share insights into the final steps of steelmaking at the rolling mill.

26:00 - LPMA’s contributions to nation building

Amrit Mangat discusses LPMA’s diverse product range, including universal beams, rails, and solar panel posts.
Highlighting LPMA’s commitment to delivering value-added products to customers.

30:00 - Celebrating LPMAs role in nation building

Reflections from Thomas and Jack on their pride in producing steel for iconic Australian projects.

32:15 - Supporting the community: The Shooting Stars Program

Stacey Gray of the Shooting Stars program discusses its impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls, empowering them with career opportunities and personal growth.
How GFG’s sponsorship is enabling additional resources for the program.

36:10 - Success Stories from the Shooting Stars program

Real-life examples of girls who have benefited from the program, including employment with GFG and career placements in education.

40:05 - Safety takeaway: Protecting your hands

Safety Specialist Nikki Carn offers advice on the importance of hand protection in the workplace.

42:00 - Conclusion

Kelly Fedor wraps up the episode and invites listeners to join the next edition of Steel Town.


This episode provides a comprehensive look into the efforts behind the scenes at Liberty Primary Metals and their vision for the future of steelmaking in Australia, while also highlighting the community-driven initiatives that are shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

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