Correct me if I am wrong but isn't the Gunpowder/Mt Gordon/Capricorn Copper mine (I know its difficult to keep up because every new owner re-names it!
) operating at the moment?
Mt Oxide itself hasn't been mined since 1971 and as I understand it the QLD Government has resumed the mining lease for a remediation project.
Both mines have some potential, but also have some environmental liabilities/issues.
Interesting discussion about IGO though, its the only ASX listed zinc producer that hasn't had its share price smashed in the last few years. Have a look at the rest of them like AMI, AML, CZL, HRR, NCZ & RVR.... just the hint of any Zinc production is enough to march your share price directly to the toilet, with the notable exception of IGO.