Evolution Mining has delivered a record profit of almost $1.5 billion as soaring gold and copper prices combine with higher production and cost control to generate a surge in cash.

Sean Aylmer speaks with Evolution Mining Managing Director and CEO Lawrie Conway about why the miner is returning more of that cash to shareholders rather than chasing acquisitions, the growing importance of copper, the role of automation and AI in mining, and why Conway believes Australia's gold sector still needs more consolidation.