Kestrel Mine

The Kestrel Mine produces approx. 4 million tons of high-volatile coking and thermal coal annually for the export market, using the longwall mining method.

The Kestrel Mine Extension project (KME) included the development of two mine-access drifts and the associated in-seam coal development to allow the commencement of longwall mining activities. The first drift was 4.75 m high x 6.5 m wide and 1,425 m long at a grade of 1 in 6. The second drift is 4.5 m high x 6 m wide and 1,673 m long at a grade of 1 in 8.

The in-seam work included drivage to establish the primary ventilation circuit, the tailgate drive-head area and sufficient pit room for multiple development headings. This was followed by the development of the first longwall block.

Construction activities included roadheader excavation, steel-set installation, concrete invert, rock bolting, continuous miner excavation, shotcrete application, and permanent services installation.