A Sun SPARCstation based computer network is utilised to store and process mining data at the Macraes Gold Mine. Techbase and Medsystem software running on the SunOS unix platform is used to generate all data plans, sections and other design data required on a daily basis to run the mining operation. The Macraes site is regarded as a fully integrated site where all geological, grade control, exploration, orebody modelling, resource estimation, pit optimisation and mine design is undertaken on site by Macraes' professional staff. The methodologies employed are regarded as state-of-the-art' where computerisation allows the rapid and efficient evaluation of large quantities of mining data by a handful of professional personnel._x000D_
Ore reserves are estimated using an indicator kriging method and roving cone pit optimisation, a complex process that would not have been achievable in pre-computing days.