The Northparkes E26 Mine is Australia's first block cave mine. This paper presents an outline of the design and construction philosophies that drove the project development and details the excavation, ground support and construction methods used._x000D_
Features of the block caving method at Northparkes include: high production rates from multiple drawpoints; hard blocky ore fractured along gypsum veins; and loading/unloading of openings due to mining induced stresses._x000D_
The drawpoints are subjected to high abrasion from the flow of ore, as well as impact from both secondary blasting and from the production LHDs. In order to withstand these harsh conditions and to ensure a low maintenance environment, a conservative approach to ground support was taken. The experiences gained during construction are discussed and whether the design expectations have been achieved._x000D_
By installing a high level of ground support during excavation of the openings subject to mining stresses, a low maintenance environment has been constructed. Operating costs are therefore minimised and Northparkes E26 Mine continues to produce at the lowest cost per tonne of all Australian underground mines.