Programme
Slope Stability X26 Conference Agenda – Day1 and Day 2
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DAY 1   DAY 2   Slope Stability X26 Home   Register   Download the Event Brochure
Thursday, 14 MAY 2026
Day 1
🟦 Arrival Coffee & Networking
07:30 – 08:30
Opening Address (Host) Conference Chairperson
Exploring the industry’s risk landscape fpr slope stability failures and defining the pressing urgencies geotechnical heads today
08:30 – 08:45
Speaker To be announced
Opening Keynote: Industry Outlook 2026
A look at Global slope stability priorities
Understanding Risk exposure trends
Unoacking the Suitcase Question: Why failures still happen?
08:45 – 09:15
Speaker & industry partner To be announced
đź”· SESSION 1: INVESTIGATION & GEOLOGICAL UNDERSTANDING
Session 1 sets the foundation for this years conference focusing on the critical first phase of slope stability: understanding the ground before any design or operation begins. In mining and geotechnical engineering, reliable slope performance depends on the quality of investigation data, the accuracy of geological models, and the integration of hydrogeological and structural factors into decision-making.
This session brings together leading experts from Australia, Botswana, Lesotho and South Africa to explore how early-stage insights translate into safer, more efficient mine design and operations.
9:15 - 11:45
Multiple Speakers
đź”· SESSION 1: INVESTIGATION & GEOLOGICAL UNDERSTANDING
Session 1 sets the foundation for this years conference focusing on the critical first phase of slope stability: understanding the ground before any design or operation begins. In mining and geotechnical engineering, reliable slope performance depends on the quality of investigation data, the accuracy of geological models, and the integration of hydrogeological and structural factors into decision-making.
This session brings together leading experts from Australia, Botswana, Lesotho and South Africa to explore how early-stage insights translate into safer, more efficient mine design and operations.
9:15 - 11:45
Multiple Speakers
Challenges in Geotechnical Design – From Site Investigation to Construction
This presentation would explore the complexities of geotechnical material characterisation, the selection of design parameters, and the identification of critical aspects of material behaviour. It would also include insights into construction-stage expectations, lessons learned, and relevant case studies.
9:15 - 9:45
Dr. Morteza Ghamgosar Senior Associate| ATC Williams, Australia
9:15 - 9:45
Challenges in Geotechnical Design – From Site Investigation to Construction
This presentation would explore the complexities of geotechnical material characterisation, the selection of design parameters, and the identification of critical aspects of material behaviour. It would also include insights into construction-stage expectations, lessons learned, and relevant case studies.
Dr. Morteza Ghamgosar Senior Associate| ATC Williams, Australia
Embedding Hydrogeology at the Core of Mine Stability
Defining the critical succrss factors for managing groundwater regimes and pit dewatering to maintain safe and dry mining conditions.
09:45 – 10:15
Hamilton Moswathupa Regional Manager & Specialist: Hydrogeology and Water Management, Kumba Anglo American, South Africa
MORNING TEA-BREAK AND NETWORKING
10:15 – 10:45
Exploring Structural Influence in Slope Stability Analysis
- Structural control and slope instability mechanisms.
- Integrating structural data into slope stability analysis.
- Case Study: Letšeng Diamond mine application.
- Advancing slope design through structural characterisation.
10:45 – 11:15
Lehana Bulane Geotechnical Engineer, Letšeng Diamond Mine, Lesotho
Strategic Oversight of Geotechnical Engineering in Large-Scale Mining Operations
Lessons from integrating geotechnical practices across open pits and mineral residue facilities.
11:15 – 11:45
Kabo Gabanakgosi MAusIMM CP(Geotech) Principal Geotechnical Engineer | Debswana Diamond Company, Botswana
🟦 SPONSORED SIGNATURE SESSIONS - Fireside chats + Interactive Panels and Hybrid Workshops Stream A: Failure Modes and Risk-Based Decision Making in Embankment Slope Design
Day 1 Signature Sessions are designed to be engaging, interactive and a thought-provoking component of the conference —
This topic would focus on embankment failure risks and preparedness during both design-construction and operational phases, with an emphasis on risk assessment and mitigation strategies, based on the best practices and guidelines.
11:45 - 13:00
Multiple Speakers
🟦 SPONSORED SIGNATURE SESSIONS - Fireside chats + Interactive Panels and Hybrid Workshops Stream A: Failure Modes and Risk-Based Decision Making in Embankment Slope Design
Day 1 Signature Sessions are designed to be engaging, interactive and a thought-provoking component of the conference —
This topic would focus on embankment failure risks and preparedness during both design-construction and operational phases, with an emphasis on risk assessment and mitigation strategies, based on the best practices and guidelines.
11:45 - 13:00
Multiple Speakers
How do we design Rockfall protection Systems that actually perform in the field?
Hazard identification and rock mass characterisation
• Rockfall trajectory modelling
• Barrier energy classification
• Certified installation practices
• Monitoring strategies for long-term slope performance.
11:45 - 12:15
Khomotso Moleke CEO, M84 Geotech Solutions Pty Ltd, South Africa
LUNCH BREAK AND NETWORKING
13:00 - 14:00
đź”· SESSION 2: DESIGN, MODELLING & ENGINEERING SYSTEMS
Session 2 shifts the focus from understanding the ground to engineering how it performs. It explores how geotechnical data is translated into robust, reliable designs through advanced modelling techniques, analytical methods, and integrated engineering systems.
At the core of this session is a critical industry challenge:
Are our models truly reflecting reality—or are they simplifying risk?
1400 - 15:30
Multiple Speakers
đź”· SESSION 2: DESIGN, MODELLING & ENGINEERING SYSTEMS
Session 2 shifts the focus from understanding the ground to engineering how it performs. It explores how geotechnical data is translated into robust, reliable designs through advanced modelling techniques, analytical methods, and integrated engineering systems.
At the core of this session is a critical industry challenge:
Are our models truly reflecting reality—or are they simplifying risk?
1400 - 15:30
Multiple Speakers
Designing Rockfall Protection Systems That Perform
Rockfall protection systems are often the last line of defence between unstable slopes and critical infrastructure, personnel, and operations. Yet their effectiveness depends not only on design standards, but on how well they respond to real-world conditions, dynamic forces, and evolving risk profiles.
This session explores what it truly means to design protection systems that perform—moving beyond theoretical capacity to tested reliability in the field. It examines the full lifecycle of rockfall protection, from hazard identification and trajectory analysis to system selection, installation, and long-term performance monitoring.
14:00 - 14:30
Sponsored Technical Presentation Partner to be announced
Principles to Probability: Rethinking Open Pit Design
As the industry evolves, so must our design philosophy. This presentation revisits the fundamentals of open pit mine design through the lens of simplicity, reliability and risk. It considers how acceptance criteria and geotechnical models can be re-imagined through probabilistic thinking, shifting from deterministic certainty to informed confidence.
14:30 – 15:00
Ovheshlan Pillay CEng (UK)Â Lecturer University of The Witwatersrand & SANIRE GP Chairperson, South Africa
Bridging Design and Operational Execution
Session 3 brings the conversation to the field—where designs are tested, challenged, and often redefined. It focuses on the realities of implementation, where operational pressures, environmental conditions, and human factors intersect with engineering intent.
This session addresses the most critical question in slope stability:
What actually happens when design meets the real world?
15:00 – 15:30
Speaker to be announced
MID-AFTERNOON TEA-BREAK AND NETWORKING
15:30 - 16:00
đź”· SESSION 3: EXECUTION & OPERATIONAL REALITY
One of the most persistent challenges in slope stability is not the quality of design—but the gap between design intent and on-site execution. Even the most robust geotechnical models can fall short if they are not effectively translated into operational practices.
This session focuses on closing that gap—exploring how design assumptions, engineering specifications, and risk controls are implemented, interpreted, and adapted in real mining environments. It highlights the critical role of communication, coordination, and feedback between design engineers, site teams, and decision-makers.
16:00 - 17:30
Multiple Speakers
đź”· SESSION 3: EXECUTION & OPERATIONAL REALITY
One of the most persistent challenges in slope stability is not the quality of design—but the gap between design intent and on-site execution. Even the most robust geotechnical models can fall short if they are not effectively translated into operational practices.
This session focuses on closing that gap—exploring how design assumptions, engineering specifications, and risk controls are implemented, interpreted, and adapted in real mining environments. It highlights the critical role of communication, coordination, and feedback between design engineers, site teams, and decision-makers.
16:00 - 17:30
Multiple Speakers
Optimising Highwall Stability: From Modelling to Controls
Applying DFN modelling, slope monitoring and rock engineering principles to improve pit slope performance.
15:30 - 16:30
Thlologelo Mametja Chief Rock Engineer, Valterra Platinum, South Africa
🟦 Post-Construction Regulations and Enforcement
Regulators + Operators + Engineers –Â High-impact end-of-day tension release session
- What governing regulations apply to post-construction mining operations, specifically regarding supporting infrastructure rather than the mining activities themselves?
- Are there any regulations requiring the ongoing monitoring of infrastructure? (Include reference to an American case study.)
- Which authorities or entities are responsible for enforcing these regulations, and to what extent is enforcement currently taking place?
- What gaps exist in the current regulatory framework, and what changes are necessary to improve oversight and compliance?
16:30 – 17:30
Panel Host: Johan Du Plessis Technical Consultant, Structural Engineer, Prokon SA (Pty) Ltd, South Africa
Presentations by Multiple Speakers
🟦 Post-Construction Regulations and Enforcement
Regulators + Operators + Engineers –Â High-impact end-of-day tension release session
- What governing regulations apply to post-construction mining operations, specifically regarding supporting infrastructure rather than the mining activities themselves?
- Are there any regulations requiring the ongoing monitoring of infrastructure? (Include reference to an American case study.)
- Which authorities or entities are responsible for enforcing these regulations, and to what extent is enforcement currently taking place?
- What gaps exist in the current regulatory framework, and what changes are necessary to improve oversight and compliance?
16:30 – 17:30
Panel Host: Johan Du Plessis Technical Consultant, Structural Engineer, Prokon SA (Pty) Ltd, South Africa
Presentations by Multiple Speakers
Welcome Cocktail & Strategic Networking
🟦 17:30 – 19:00
Friday, 15 MAY 2026
Day 2
🟦 Arrival Coffee & Networking
07:30 – 08:30
Opening Address (Host) Conference Chairperson
Exploring the industry’s risk landscape for slope stability failures and defining the pressing urgencies geotechnical heads today
08:30 – 08:45
Speaker To be announced
🟦 Opening Keynote: Continuation and Closing of Session 3 - EXECUTION & OPERATIONAL REALITY
From Strategy to Site: Executing the Future of Slope Stability in a Data-Driven World
This keynote bridges the gap between future-focused strategy and on-the-ground execution, exploring how technology, governance, and regional risk frameworks translate into real operational outcomes. It highlights how organisations can embed digital insight, accountability, and adaptive decision-making into daily practices to ensure safer, more resilient slope performance across diverse mining environments.
08:45 – 09:15
Sponsored Presentation Partner to be announced
đź”· SESSION 4: MONITORING SYSTEMS & DATA INTEGRATION
Exploring how integrated monitoring systems and real-time data enhance confidence in slope performance, this session highlights adaptive engineering practices that enable proactive decision-making, early risk detection, and continuous design refinement—bridging uncertainty with actionable insight for safer, more resilient operations.
09:15 - 11:45
Multiple Speakers
đź”· SESSION 4: MONITORING SYSTEMS & DATA INTEGRATION
Exploring how integrated monitoring systems and real-time data enhance confidence in slope performance, this session highlights adaptive engineering practices that enable proactive decision-making, early risk detection, and continuous design refinement—bridging uncertainty with actionable insight for safer, more resilient operations.
09:15 - 11:45
Multiple Speakers
Monitoring and Assessing Pit Wall Stability: Integrating Radar, Prisms, InSAR, and Field Investigations
This presentation draws on Christine’s experience coordinating final wall assessments, bench failure analysis, and high wall approach training.
09:15 – 09:45
Christine Thikusho Senior Geotechnical Geologist | Swakop Uranium Namibia
KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE SLOPE PERFORMANCE MONITORING: A CASE STUDY
Defining objectives, selecting technology, and integrating monitoring systems into operations.
Abstract:
Slope instability continues to cause significant challenges in surface mining and slope failures
constitute risks to personnel and the long-term stability of mining operations. An effective
monitoring system enables early detection of possible problems, supports early
intervention, and advances informed, risk-based decisions.
09:45 – 10:15
Nyeleti Masole Chief Rock Engineer, Foskor, South Africa
MORNING TEA-BREAK AND NETWORKING
10:15 – 10:45
🟦 SIGNATURE SESSION - Fireside chats + Interactive Panels and Hybrid Workshops STREAM B: “Digital Twins, AI & the Future of Slope Stability”
Day 2 Signature Sessions are designed to be an industry collaboration and solution-finding component of the conference —bringing together industry leaders, technical experts, and solution providers to confront a critical question posed by you:
Why do slopes still fail, even when designs meet technical standards?
These sessions move beyond traditional presentations into real dialogue, live problem-solving, and practical collaboration over live-recording. Through a mix of fireside chats, expert panels, and hands-on hybrid workshops, delegates will connect, engage and explore new and emerging solutions aligned to their operational realities
10:45 - 12:00
Multiple Speakers
🟦 SIGNATURE SESSION - Fireside chats + Interactive Panels and Hybrid Workshops STREAM B: “Digital Twins, AI & the Future of Slope Stability”
Day 2 Signature Sessions are designed to be an industry collaboration and solution-finding component of the conference —bringing together industry leaders, technical experts, and solution providers to confront a critical question posed by you:
Why do slopes still fail, even when designs meet technical standards?
These sessions move beyond traditional presentations into real dialogue, live problem-solving, and practical collaboration over live-recording. Through a mix of fireside chats, expert panels, and hands-on hybrid workshops, delegates will connect, engage and explore new and emerging solutions aligned to their operational realities
10:45 - 12:00
Multiple Speakers
Monitoring Systems Hybrid Workshop
Immersive Panel Discussion on Slope Stability Monitoring Systems
Introductory Summary
This hands-on workshop explores how radar, InSAR, and drone technologies are transforming slope monitoring through integrated, real-time data workflows. Designed for practical application, it demonstrates how combining multiple systems enhances visibility, accuracy, and response time.
10:45 - 11:30
Featuring an OEM/technology sponsor slot, the session bridges innovation with operational implementation.
đź”· SESSION 5: PERFORMANCE & GEOLOGICAL RISK
Exploring how integrated monitoring systems and real-time data enhance confidence in slope performance, this session highlights adaptive engineering practices that enable proactive decision-making, early risk detection, and continuous design refinement—bridging uncertainty with actionable insight for safer, more resilient operations.
11:30 - 14:30
Multiple Speakers
đź”· SESSION 5: PERFORMANCE & GEOLOGICAL RISK
Exploring how integrated monitoring systems and real-time data enhance confidence in slope performance, this session highlights adaptive engineering practices that enable proactive decision-making, early risk detection, and continuous design refinement—bridging uncertainty with actionable insight for safer, more resilient operations.
11:30 - 14:30
Multiple Speakers
🟦 Geological Drivers of Slope Instability in Platinum Mining: From Structural Complexity to Operational Risk (A Platinum Case)
As the industry evolves, so must our design philosophy. This presentation revisits the fundamentals of open pit mine design through the lens of simplicity, reliability and risk. It considers how acceptance criteria and geotechnical models can be re-imagined through probabilistic thinking, shifting from deterministic certainty to informed confidence.
- Geological Drivers of Slope Instability in Platinum Mining: From Structural Complexity to Operational Risk
- Understanding Geological Complexity in the Bushveld
- From Geological Model to Engineering Risk.
- Improving Prediction Through Geological Intelligence.
11:30 - 12:00
Mpumelelo Thabethe Chief Geologist, Northam Platinum South Africa
🟦 Designing Ground Support Systems That Actually Perform in Mining Conditions
Technology & Innovation in Ground Support
What’s Changing—and What Actually Works
Innovation in ground support is accelerating—but not all of it translates into real-world performance. This session takes a closer, more practical look at how new technologies, materials, and systems are actually behaving in mining conditions.
-
Unpacking a few advances in materials and reinforcement systems, including hybrid support solutions
-
Defining the growing role of digital tools, simulation, and predictive modelling
-
How to evaluate new technologies against real operational performance
-
Deciding what to avoid over-engineering while still improving safety and efficiency
Adopting Innovation to strengthen performance—not complicate it
12:00 - 12:30
David Nyungu Geotechnical Engineer, Barrick Gold Corporation, Democratic Republic of Congo
12:00 - 12:30
🟦 Designing Ground Support Systems That Actually Perform in Mining Conditions
Technology & Innovation in Ground Support
What’s Changing—and What Actually Works
Innovation in ground support is accelerating—but not all of it translates into real-world performance. This session takes a closer, more practical look at how new technologies, materials, and systems are actually behaving in mining conditions.
-
Unpacking a few advances in materials and reinforcement systems, including hybrid support solutions
-
Defining the growing role of digital tools, simulation, and predictive modelling
-
How to evaluate new technologies against real operational performance
-
Deciding what to avoid over-engineering while still improving safety and efficiency
Adopting Innovation to strengthen performance—not complicate it
David Nyungu Geotechnical Engineer, Barrick Gold Corporation, Democratic Republic of Congo
🟦Closing the Loop: Integrating Design, Monitoring, and Operations for Real-Time Risk Control
Theme: Combining Geotechnical Reality and The Econpmics of Execution
-
Integrating Systems Across the Lifecycle
Connecting investigation, design, monitoring, and operations into one continuous workflow -
From Data to Real-Time Decisions
Turning monitoring insights into immediate, practical interventions on site -
Breaking Down Organisational Silos
Aligning geotechnical, operational, and leadership teams around shared risk visibility -
Building Closed-Loop Engineering Systems
Using feedback and performance data to continuously refine design and execution
12:30 - 13:00
Technical Partners To be announced
12:30 - 13:00
🟦Closing the Loop: Integrating Design, Monitoring, and Operations for Real-Time Risk Control
Theme: Combining Geotechnical Reality and The Econpmics of Execution
-
Integrating Systems Across the Lifecycle
Connecting investigation, design, monitoring, and operations into one continuous workflow -
From Data to Real-Time Decisions
Turning monitoring insights into immediate, practical interventions on site -
Breaking Down Organisational Silos
Aligning geotechnical, operational, and leadership teams around shared risk visibility -
Building Closed-Loop Engineering Systems
Using feedback and performance data to continuously refine design and execution
Technical Partners To be announced
LUNCH BREAK AND NETWORKING
13:00 - 14:00
🟦 From Monitoring to Action: Operationalising Data for Real-Time Geological Risk Control
-
Closing the Gap Between Data and Action
How organisations move from dashboards to real-time intervention and response -
Integrated Risk Workflows Across Teams
Aligning geotechnical, operational, and management layers for coordinated decision-making -
Protecting Operations Through Predictive Insight
Leveraging monitoring and analytics to anticipate failure and prevent disruption
14:30 – 15:30
Technical Partners To be announced
14:30 – 15:30
🟦 From Monitoring to Action: Operationalising Data for Real-Time Geological Risk Control
-
Closing the Gap Between Data and Action
How organisations move from dashboards to real-time intervention and response -
Integrated Risk Workflows Across Teams
Aligning geotechnical, operational, and management layers for coordinated decision-making -
Protecting Operations Through Predictive Insight
Leveraging monitoring and analytics to anticipate failure and prevent disruption
Technical Partners To be announced
MID-AFTERNOON TEA-BREAK AND NETWORKING
15:30 - 16:00
🟦 Closing Panel: Performance & Geological Risk in Practice Industry + Government + Technology | Interactive Hybrid Panel
Aligned Theme:
Exploring Integrated Models, Systems & Real-Time Data for Performance Confidence, Adaptive Engineering, and Safer, Resilient Infrastructure
Session Overview
Positioned within Session 5: Performance and Geological Risks, this closing panel brings the conference full circle—focusing on how integrated systems, real-time data, and cross-disciplinary collaboration are reshaping how we understand and manage slope performance.
Through an interactive, audience-driven format, this session explores how geological uncertainty, monitoring technologies, and engineering models can be better connected to enable proactive decision-making, early risk detection, and continuous refinement of design and operational practices.
This is where theory, technology, and governance converge—translating insight into actionable confidence in slope performance.
16:00 - 17:30
Technical Partners To be announced
16:00 - 17:30
🟦 Closing Panel: Performance & Geological Risk in Practice Industry + Government + Technology | Interactive Hybrid Panel
Aligned Theme:
Exploring Integrated Models, Systems & Real-Time Data for Performance Confidence, Adaptive Engineering, and Safer, Resilient Infrastructure
Session Overview
Positioned within Session 5: Performance and Geological Risks, this closing panel brings the conference full circle—focusing on how integrated systems, real-time data, and cross-disciplinary collaboration are reshaping how we understand and manage slope performance.
Through an interactive, audience-driven format, this session explores how geological uncertainty, monitoring technologies, and engineering models can be better connected to enable proactive decision-making, early risk detection, and continuous refinement of design and operational practices.
This is where theory, technology, and governance converge—translating insight into actionable confidence in slope performance.
Technical Partners To be announced
🟦 Sponsored Farewell and Cocktail & Strategic Networking
17:30 - 19:00
Sponsors and Partners To be announced
17:30 - 19:00
🟦 Sponsored Farewell and Cocktail & Strategic Networking
Sponsors and Partners To be announced
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