Coal news and updates

Thiess progresses coal site restoration

A full 80 years after breaking ground at its open-cut operations at Muswellbrook Coal Mine, Thiess Rehabilitation is employing the latest technology to restore the post-mining land. 

Thiess Rehabilitation is carrying out the restoration works for the site’s current owner Idemitsu Australia. 

The next year will see 156ha of post-mining land restored and the site returned to a mix of native ecosystems and improved pastures over 180ha. 

Since mobilising to site in July 2023, Thiess Rehabilitation has safely and successfully deployed a dozer and excavator fleet to move 7.3 million cubic metres of mined earth – enough to fill over 1,500 Olympic-size swimming pools – and celebrated 479 days reportable incident-free at the end of October 2024. 

Other milestones include the completion of six blasts on the highwall to create a final landform that is sustainable and complements the landscapes of the surrounding region. Civil works were progressively delivered on areas undergoing rehabilitation to support a post-mining landform that delivers both vegetation and pastureland uses. The next year will see the delivery of 2.8km of rock-lined drains, 19km of contour banks and 16,000t tonnes of compost spreading. 

Thiess Rehabilitation Group Manager, Jonathan Miln, said, “Given Thiess’ legacy at Muswellbrook Mine, Thiess Rehabilitation is pleased to be able to contribute to the successful rehabilitation of the Muswellbrook site and meet Idemitsu Australia’s approved mine rehabilitation objectives.” 

Thiess celebrates 90 years in 2024 – having grown from humble beginnings in rural Queensland nine decades ago to be at the forefront of sustainable mining and infrastructure services, with operations across eight countries and three continents, with more than 15,000 employees. 

Reflecting on these achievements, Thiess Group Executive Strategy, Sustainability and Safety, Shankar Gopalan, said that Thiess has remained focussed on delivering great value to its clients since 1934.  

“Our long-term commitment extends beyond continuity – it encompasses embracing change, fostering innovation, and nurturing enduring relationships with all stakeholders. 

“Thiess stands poised at the forefront of this transformative era, ready to continue our legacy of excellence while embracing the challenges and opportunities of the global energy transition.”