International Graphite makes move to bigger Collie premises

Collie-based company International Graphite has made a move on to bigger and better things, signing a lease on a new building where they plan to ramp up operations. The company plans to expand its research and development facilities in the 432sqm building, plans that will help them on their way to becoming the only WA company that does not have to import raw graphite from interstate or overseas. The new premises, which has improved safety and ease of access, will become the base of the company’s research and development activities including pilot-testing graphite concentrates and spheroidising graphite for battery anode material applications. The pilot plant is expected to be commissioned later this year, with plans to expand the facility over the next 12 months. “The move to this new building is an important step in our development plans and has come quicker than we anticipated,” International Graphite’s executive chairman, Phil Hearse, said. “It reflects the momentum we are experiencing in the market as global demand for graphite continues to grow rapidly.” The company’s relations manager — and former longstanding Collie-Preston MLA — Mick Murray, recently joined International Graphite’s team, looking forward to the prospects new-energy projects can bring to the region. “Collie is starting to realise its exciting future, with several new industries joining the town,” Mr Murray said. “I see International Graphite as an ideal fit — helping establish Collie as a home for leading edge industries and bringing jobs and training to our community for decades to come.”