Kestrel Mine Extension Opened in Queensland

Kestrel Mine Extension Opened in Queensland

Friday Oct 18th - 12:00

After more than 6 million hours of construction, the expansion phase of the Kestrel mine near Emerald was completed in September with a grand opening by the Queensland treasurer Tim Nicholls. The US$2 billion project will add 20 years to the life of the mine and help secure a long-term future for more than 500 employees and contractors.

The treasurer commented; “This extension has delivered one of the most advanced and sophisticated underground coking coal operations built in Australia.”  Equipped with a high level of automation and control, the mine is expected to offer increased safety and production rates.  ATB Morley supplied the electric motors on the EL3000 Caterpillar coal shearer which is capable of cutting 5000 tonnes per hour.

Rio Tinto and Caterpillar supported the McGrath Foundation by painting the coal shearer bright pink.  The companies raised money to found a McGrath breast care nurse in central Queensland.  The nurse will be employed for 3 years by the Mackay health service to provide support for families experiencing breast cancer.

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