Mr Higgins, who played a key role in successfully securing approval for Grosvenor in 2011, passed away in 2013 following a battle with cancer.

The memorial and dedication of the Byron Higgins Administration building was officially unveiled by Anglo American Chief Executive Officer Seamus French, along with Mr Higgins’ wife, Lucia Higgins.

Executive Head of Underground Operations Glen Britton said a special memorial service with Mr Higgins’ former colleagues was held to unveil the memorial and commemorate his personal contribution to the Grosvenor mine.

“Byron played a critical role in establishing the Grosvenor project and by unveiling the permanent memorial we can acknowledge his personal and professional contribution to this project and to Anglo American,” Mr Britton said.

“In naming the main administration complex after Byron Higgins, we will, in a small way, keep his memory and spirit alive.”

Mr Higgins joined the Grosvenor team as Feasibility Study Manager in 2009 before later taking on the role of Project Manager.

“Byron took on this challenging role and led the project team through the Feasibility Study, displaying the highest degree of professionalism, diligence and care,” Mr Britton said.

“He led the grant of the Mining Lease, secured property rights and built a strong, focused, positive project team.”

Mr Britton said it was a privilege to have Mrs Higgins attend the memorial ceremony and unveil the plaque and building dedication.

ENDS

Contact: Corporate Affairs, Vanessa Davies – 0400 927 185

Notes to editors: 

Anglo American is a global and diversified mining business that provides the raw materials essential for economic development and modern life. Our people are at the heart of our business. It is our people who use the latest technologies to find new resources, plan and build our mines and who mine, process and move and market our products – from bulk commodities and base metals to precious metals and diamonds (through De Beers) – to our customers around the world. Our diversified portfolio of products spans the economic development cycle and, as a responsible miner, we are the custodians of precious resources. We work together with our key partners and stakeholders to unlock the long-term value that those resources represent for our shareholders, but also for the communities and countries in which we operate – creating sustainable value and making a real difference. Our mining operations, growth projects and exploration and marketing activities extend across southern Africa, South America, Australia, North America, Asia and Europe. 

www.angloamerican.com