A 17-machine delivery plan has been finalized by Liebherr-Australia and Glencore for six key mining operations in Queensland and New South Wales. Deliveries are scheduled to take place until the end of 2026. Liebherr-Australia will offer comprehensive training for operators and technicians, as well as embedded technicians, to ensure the long-term success of these devices.
The initial phase of the agreement will include the delivery of 10 R 9600s, five R 9400s, one R 9800, and one R 9100. Liebherr’s D9812 engines will be utilized by seven of these excavators. Seven of the 17 machines in this phase have already been successfully commissioned across Glencore’s sites, culminating in the achievement of significant milestones at three thereof. Liebherr’s inaugural equipment delivery to the Hail Creek mine in Queensland comprises two R 9600 excavators. In addition, Liebherr-Australia implemented new Liebherr machinery at the United Wambo mine in New South Wales and delivered the first-ever Liebherr excavators at Ravensworth.
As part of the ongoing agreement with Glencore, additional units are expected to be delivered in both Queensland and New South Wales throughout 2027, in addition to the 17 machines that are scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026. This will further solidify the partnership.
“We are thrilled to announce the commencement of a new era of partnership with Glencore.” Liebherr-Australia is proud to have secured multi-year supply agreements of this magnitude. It is indicative of the capacity of our national team to provide consistent performance across multiple sites and support large, complex operations,” states Brian Boitano, executive general manager of sales, marketing, training, and solutions for Liebherr-Australia.
Alex Callaghan, procurement specialist at Glencore Coal Assets Australia, stated, “Our ongoing dedication to enhancing operational efficiency and safety in our mining operation is reflected in our partnership with Liebherr for our equipment requirements.”
Increasing Liebherr’s presence in the Hunter Valley
In 2024, two of the 17 excavators were delivered to Glencore’s Hunter Valley operations in New South Wales—Ravensworth, United Wambo, Bulga, and Mount Owen. By the end of 2026, the operations will collectively receive 12 of the 17 machine deliveries.Liebherr-Australia has already commissioned numerous units in the region. The first Liebherr machinery to operate at Ravensworth were the R 9600 and R 9400, which were delivered in 2024. United Wambo has received a R 9600 and a R 9400 thus far this year. Three R 9600s and a R 9400 for Bulga are yet to be commissioned this year. These vehicles will be outfitted with Liebherr D9812 engines. Also in 2025, Ravensworth will receive a R 9800 and Mount Owen a R 9100, while Ravensworth will receive two additional R 9400s in 2026.
“The delivery of numerous machines to Glencore over the past eight months, some of which were the first to be introduced to Ravensworth, was a testament to our high-performing product portfolio and also marked an important milestone in our partnership,” states Boitano.
Liebherr-Australia’s Mount Thorley branch will provide specialist technicians, proactive maintenance planning, and tailored upskilling initiatives for operators and site personnel, in addition to supporting all of these excavators.
Collaborating in Queensland
Liebherr-Australia commissioned a new R 9600 for Glencore’s Hail Creek operation in Queensland in February of this year. This was the first Liebherr machine to be installed at this site. A second R 9600 was added in July, and another will be added in 2026. Liebherr’s D9812 engines are utilized to operate all three of these devices. Additionally, two R 9600s will be delivered to Glencore’s Rolleston site in 2026. Liebherr-Australia’s Mackay branch will provide on-the-ground technical support, comprehensive operator and technical training programs, and embedded Liebherr technicians to support these R 9600s.
“Our partnership with Glencore is founded on long-term value, technology, and trust,” asserts Boitano. “We are enthusiastic about the prospect of adding additional machines in 2026 and 2027, as well as the potential for further expansion, as this agreement establishes a strong foundation for our future with Glencore.” At present, the most critical factors are reliability and production, and we are honored to contribute to their achievement. I am collaborating with you to establish an enduring partnership.
source: heavy equipment guide
