Ibaera was founded in 2012 by executives from some of Australia’s leading mining companies. We are an active and collaborative investment partner providing significant technical expertise and exploration knowledge, through our team of geologists and engineers that are collectively and individually recognized for their contribution to the discovery and development of world-class mining ventures.
Our technical team is based in Perth, Western Australia, rated #1 jurisdiction in the world for mining investment by the Fraser Institute, 2021.
We invest in early stage, quality development assets that are often unappreciated by the listed market. We help re-value those assets through appropriate funding, astute management and considered development.
We invest in the development of quality precious and base metals projects from exploration to construction, providing a development conduit from Explorer to Producer.
We continue to actively search for attractive future facing minerals investments in established mining jurisdictions.
Development of the Black Volta gold project to construction of a new gold mine in Ghana, targeted to produce 120-150 koz per annum.
Acquisition of a major gold-copper-zinc project in Serbia and funding to construction, targeting to produce in excess of 250 koz per annum of gold.
We build regionally focused mining businesses, exploring, developing, constructing and operating base and precious metals mines.
More than 100 years of mine development
and investment experience
Each is a recognized leader in their respective discipline, from research and exploration to investment, construction and implementation.
James Wallbank has led Ibaera since its formation in 2012. He was the former Manager of Business Development for Fortescue Metals Group, responsible for the acquisition of new non-iron investments in Australia and internationally. Prior to joining FMG, James was Manager of Iron Ore for WorleyParsons, one of the largest project delivery businesses with over 30,000 staff. James has a Master of Business Administration from the Australian Graduate School of Management and a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Hons), from the University of Adelaide, Australia.
Jon Hronsky (OAM) was recently awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia, for services to the mining industry. A well deserved honour for Jon’s more than 30 year’s contribution to the science and practice of mineral exploration; particularly in the areas of project generation, exploration targeting, technical innovation and exploration strategy development. Jon has worked across a diverse range of commodities and has particular expertise in targeting for gold and base metal deposits. Jon is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Western Australia and former Chairman of the Board of the Centre for Exploration Targeting, former Manager of Strategy & Generative Services for BHP Billiton Mineral Exploration, and former Global Geoscience Leader for WMC Resources Ltd. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mining Geology from the West Australian School of Mines and a Doctorate in Geology from the University of Western Australia.
Peter Hairsine is a specialist study manager with more than 20 years of experience in mining. Former Project Study Manager and Manager of Business Development for Fortescue Metals and Study Manager at WorleyParsons, Peter has been responsible for a number of large project studies in Australian mining. Peter utilizes a total project approach by integrating geology, mining, process and infrastructure inputs to maximize the value of the projects. He combines this with an excellent appreciation of the key commercial and financial requirements to ensure a successful project.
Peter has a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Western Australia.