It was difficult to know what to expect for MiningNews Select Australia 2025 given the recent state of the market, but I was genuinely taken aback by the level of investor engagement and support for junior miners and explorers. 

The MNN and Aspermont team knew the lineup of presenters and exhibitors was high-quality, but even the most promising juniors can have a hard time getting the attention of investors — especially in recent times, as delegates at any mining-related event would have heard dozens of times before. 

Yet, at this year's conference, the first issue we encountered was that we did not have enough chairs to accommodate our investor delegates. 

And the crowd did not just comprise warm bodies.  

Investors, fund managers and service providers in the audience could be seen eagerly taking notes and nodding along to the presentations, and question time had to be cut short on several occasions because there were too many hands in the air but not enough time. 

Those that wanted their questions answered could later be seen at the exhibitor booths in the main conference hall. 

I'm not privy to the details of what went on in these talks, but whispers could be heard of the deals signed — some to the tune of seven figures, if rumours are to be believed. 

It can feel a bit strange having MiningNews Select held alongside the massive Future of Mining event (also a great success) given the smaller scope and much more targeted audience. 

It's an intentional move to ensure the right investors are connected with the right companies and not distracted by the showcases and the mining toys on display. 

And it's a move that seems to have paid off.  

I've attended many mining events in my time, so I don't say this lightly (and I acknowledge the bias by which my opinions may be influenced), but I've never seen an audience of investors like this.  

And it seems it's not just me; one of the presenters told me, "This is the most engaged crowd I've ever spoken to."  

While I'm sure opinions, as they tend to do, will differ, MiningNews Select was underpinned by a feeling of hope that perhaps the cold market for juniors is starting to thaw. 

Time will tell, I suppose. 

To all our junior miners, explorers and developers that made MiningNews Select happen, thank you. 

To all the investors and delegates who so intently listened to the companies' stories, thank you.  

And to anyone who missed out, we hope to see you next year.

Yours,
Josh Smith
Editor, MiningNews.Net