Johannesburg workshop.   The tour commenced in Johannesburg, South Africa, with a comprehensive classroom workshop presented by renowned expert Professor Nic Beukes (facing the camera on the right image) of the University of Johannesburg.   The objective of the workshop was to provide an introduction to the development of iron formations and of high grade ore, a context to the visits to be undertaken in South Africa, and the distribution and styles of iron deposit known within that part of the continent, including an overview of those not to be visited.   Following the workshop, the group flew to Upington in the Northern Cape Province late in the afternoon, ready to depart at sunrise next morning and drive to Sishen for the first of the mine visits.
Photographs by Mike Porter.