Digger Award: Independence Group.

The Digger Award for 2011 was presented to gold and base metals-focused Independence Group.

The Digger Award is presented to companies that have achieved corporate success through strong management demonstrating innovation and sustainability.

The Chris Bonwick led entity has developed a stable of mines in the Kambalda region, including the Long nickel mine.

It has also developed a strong presence in the gold sector through its Joint Venture with AngloGold Ashanti at Tropicana.

“They have maximised returns and enhanced the sustainable value of the primary nickel business as well as maintaining skin in the game through the 30 per cent equity interest in the major Tropicana gold project,” conference chairman Barry Eldridge said presenting the award.

“Independence Group have rightly earned a place as one of the premium resource companies operating in Australia,”