With a steadfast commitment to maintaining both technological advancement and safety across Australia’s most demanding mining environments, Titeline Drilling has grown to become one of the country’s leading mineral exploration contractors. Matthew Zanette, CEO, tells us more.
A SMARTER, SAFER FUTURE FOR DRILLING
The mining industry in Australia has significantly evolved in recent years to cater to the growing emphasis on renewable energy.
Whilst there is still a keen focus on traditional mining strengths such as iron and coal, a concurrent shift towards critical materials such as copper, lithium, and other rare earths essential for renewable energy generation and battery technologies is also present.
Equipped with such varied capabilities, the Australian mining landscape is well-positioned to meet the expectations of this industry change.
“With increasing geopolitical uncertainty, countries are looking for stable, responsible suppliers of resources, and Australia is seen as a reliable partner,” opens Matthew Zanette, CEO of Titeline Drilling (Titeline), a leading drilling services company.
The steady progress in both technology and sustainability also brings automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics to the forefront of the nation’s mining activities, enabling the industry to operate more efficiently and safely.
This is compounded by the growing importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and increasing ESG expectations from investors, communities, and regulators.
Titeline’s advanced solutions and adaptability, however, mean it is able to respond to such targets whilst also overcoming industry challenges including workforce shortages, regulatory complexity, and supply chain pressures, helping the industry navigate global market volatility.
PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF DRILLING
Founded in Victoria over 20 years ago, Titeline has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality, advanced drilling solutions across Australia and overseas in regions including Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and many more.
The company’s projects exemplify a bold commitment to redefining the drilling industry through relentless innovation and a passion for safety, efficiency, and technological advancement.
“At the heart of our mission lies a drive to push the boundaries of what’s possible, transforming traditional drilling operations into streamlined, intelligent systems,” Zanette impassions.
Indeed, Titeline’s key strength lies in its deep expertise in directional drilling, which enables precise subsurface targeting in complex geological conditions.
This is further enhanced by its specialisation in the development and operation of hands-free drilling technologies, which improve safety, efficiency, and automation on mining sites.
Led by senior leadership that boasts 170 years of combined experience and supported by a highly capable operations team, Titeline has built long-term relationships with a plethora of major mining companies on a number of significant projects.
These include BHP’s Olympic Dam, Oak Dam, Carrapateena, and Prominent Hill mines; Rio Tinto’s Winu project; and Newmont Corporation’s Tanami mine.
“These collaborations reflect the company’s commitment to trust, performance, and innovation. Titeline continues to play a key role in advancing exploration and mining projects worldwide,” he asserts.
AUSTRALIA’S SAFEST DRILLING OPERATORS
By utilising hands-free technologies, Titeline is leading the charge for safer and more sustainable explorations.
Indeed, the company’s systems minimise human exposure to hazardous environments, reduce operational downtime, and enhance precision through automation and real-time data integration.
With this in mind, its approach reflects a deep understanding of the industry’s evolving needs that converge digital transformation, environmental responsibility, and workforce safety.
“From advanced rig designs to integrated control systems, Titeline’s innovations aren’t just about keeping pace – they’re about setting the pace. Its forward-thinking ethos ensures every project is a step towards a smarter, safer, and more efficient future in drilling,” Zanette insights.
The company likewise has a founding belief that the most advanced technologies are only as powerful as the people who operate them.
As a result, it strives to foster a culture of continuous learning, curiosity, and innovation across every level of its team, from experienced professionals to entry-level drilling assistants.
By instilling these values, Titeline empowers its workforce to challenge the norm, strive for excellence, and uphold the highest standards of safety.
“There is a shared commitment to doing things the right way – not the easy way – as we refuse to cut corners or take unnecessary risks,” shares Zanette.
“Whilst our machines are designed to remove workers from hazardous environments, it’s our people who choose to stay safe, think critically, and lead with integrity.”
“Titeline’s broader vision is to create an intelligent underground drilling ecosystem that not only improves operational performance but also ensures safer working conditions”
Matthew Zanette, CEO, Titeline Drilling
A NEXT-GENERATION SOLUTION
Amongst its multitude of innovative products, Titeline’s flagship asset is the ULT-R, a modular electrohydraulic robotic core drill rig designed specifically for underground mine exploration and grade control.
“What sets the ULT-R apart is its integration of robotics, automation, and autonomous systems, which significantly enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity,” Zanette informs us.
The technology features two independent modules – the drill rig and rod carrier module – mounted on a track crawler chassis.
This modular design allows for flexible setup configurations and optimised coverage in underground environments measuring up to 5.5 x 5.5 metre mine workings.
The ULT-R offers a number of forward-thinking solutions, including automated rod handling to reduce manual steel interaction and improve safety; a user-friendly operative environment for ease of use and maintenance; and advanced analytics, machine learning (ML), and Internet of Things (IoT) integration for real-time, data-driven decision-making.
“Titeline’s broader vision is to create an intelligent underground drilling ecosystem that not only improves operational performance but also ensures safer working conditions,” he insights.
Ultonotec, the result of a strategic joint venture between Titeline, Newland Precision Engineering, and Exploration Drill Masters (EDM), is the leading commercialisation platform of the ULT-R.
“Ultonotec is now actively bringing the ULT-R to market, offering mining and drilling companies around the world a next-generation solution that reduces operational risks, lowers costs, and enhances performance even in the most challenging environments,” Zanette expands.
Meanwhile, the integration of the ULT-R capability has also enabled Titeline to eliminate high-impact injuries commonly suffered by personnel operating in close proximity to live drilling equipment and reduce the long-term musculoskeletal impacts that are prevalent amongst workers in the industry.
“By minimising the manual handling requirements of the role, we have also opened the door to a more diverse workforce as the physical strength once deemed essential is no longer a limiting factor.”
“By embracing bold ideas and pioneering new approaches, Titeline is not just adapting to change – it’s leading it, ensuring the industry remains relevant, efficient, and forward-thinking”
Matthew Zanette, CEO, Titeline Drilling
LONG-LASTING RELATIONSHIPS
Titeline’s success and ability to innovate in such a way are deeply rooted in the strength of its relationships, as it has built enduring partnerships with its suppliers founded on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to excellence.
“These industry partners are more than just suppliers – they are an integral part of our journey and continued growth.
“We proudly recognise that without their unwavering support, Titeline would not be where it is today. That’s why we place immense value on collaboration and long-term engagement with businesses that share our values,” Zanette reflects.
The company is particularly passionate about supporting Australian-owned businesses that manufacture Australian-made products.
By choosing to work with local suppliers, Titeline ensures the highest standards of quality and reliability.
“This commitment demonstrates our belief in the power of local industry and pride in being part of a broader community that champions Australian innovation, craftsmanship, and enterprise,” he urges.
Equally, Titeline is dedicated to the well-being of its 300-strong workforce, which combines a wealth of experience with a strong focus on innovation and safety.
When the company decided to embrace technological advancement, safety and welfare were at the heart of every move.
“Every investment in innovation, from robotics to automation, has been driven by a single purpose – to protect and empower our people,” Zanette emphasises.
These advancements have not only made the company’s operations safer but also opened doors, giving team members the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in areas once considered out of reach through integrating robotic controls, coding, and advanced systems.
Such upskilling is not only enhancing individual careers but also positioning the business as a leader in an industry rapidly evolving through robotics and AI.
“By prioritising both safety and career development, we ensure our team doesn’t just keep up with change but leads it, as without them, there is no Titeline,” Zanette emphasises.
Looking to the future, as the drilling industry faces increasing pressure to evolve alongside rapid advancements in technology and sustainability, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation.
Indeed, Titeline is poised to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, driving the step changes necessary to keep the drilling sector aligned with broader industrial transformation.
“By embracing bold ideas and pioneering new approaches, Titeline is not just adapting to change – it’s leading it, ensuring the industry remains relevant, efficient, and forward-thinking,” Zanette concludes.
