The Dartbrook coal mine in New South Wales has started producing coal again for the first time since it was put on hold back in 2006. This milestone comes after the installation and testing of a new 4-kilometre conveyor system, a key part of getting the mine back up and running.
The restart of Dartbrook marks a significant achievement for Australian Pacific Coal and signals a positive step forward for the Hunter Valley region. Ayten Saridas, the Managing Director and CEO of Australian Pacific Coal said that this was a major moment for Dartbrook and the team behind its revival.
“We’re working hard to bring the mine safely into commercial production in the next few weeks,” he said. “Bringing coal to the surface shows just how much potential the Dartbrook mine has.”
The journey to restart Dartbrook has been nothing short of impressive. In just 18 months, the joint venture behind the project has secured $US60 million in capital for the restart, sorted out key land and water access agreements, and refurbished the Hunter Tunnel – a key piece of infrastructure for the mine.
They’ve also sourced and commissioned new mining equipment and completed the installation of a modern conveyor system to move the coal. Saridas praised the efforts of everyone involved in the project.
“This has been a real team effort, and I’m proud of what’s been achieved so far,” he said. “There’s still work to do before we hit commercial production, but we’re focused on making Dartbrook a world-class underground mine.”
There’s more to come for Dartbrook as it moves towards full production. The team is close to finalising port and rail agreements, as well as securing a working capital facility.
On top of that, bulk sample testing of the coal for its thermal and metallurgical (met) qualities is expected to be completed this quarter. Preparations to refurbish the mine’s coal handling and preparation plant (CHPP) are also well underway.
With no new coal mines being approved in Australia recently, Dartbrook’s return to production comes at an exciting time for the coal industry.
Saridas said, “This is a big moment for everyone involved in the Dartbrook project. We’re looking forward to becoming the newest coal producer in the Hunter Valley.”
Dartbrook was placed into care and maintenance in 2006 due to operational challenges and lower coal prices. It was originally owned by Anglo American, but Australian Pacific Coal purchased the mine in 2015 for $50 million, setting the stage for its eventual restart.
For those keen to keep up with the latest developments, Dartbrook is shaping up to be a key player in the Hunter Valley’s mining future, with full production expected shortly. Stay updated with the latest news from Latest Mining News to follow the Dartbrook mine’s journey back to full production.