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Conference Proceedings

Underground Operators Conference Proceeding 2025

Conference Proceedings

Underground Operators Conference Proceeding 2025

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Learnings from reorientating the Ernest Henry sublevel cave

Evolution Mining’s Ernest Henry Operation (EHO), situated in Queensland, Australia, first commenced commercial production in 1998 as an open pit mine before transitioning to underground mining in 2011. Its primary orebody consists of an inclined Iron Oxide Copper Gold (IOCG) deposit and the mine employs the sublevel caving method for ore extraction, facilitated by a dedicated hoisting shaft with an annual capacity of 6.8 million tonnes. Current mining at EHO reaches 1 km below surface, with an ongoing feasibility study evaluating a mine extension to over 1.5 km. The sublevel cave (SLC) at EHO traditionally follows a longitudinal layout, however the changing shape of the orebody at depth, narrowing from east to west and elongating from north to south has introduced challenges such as reduced ore drives, ventilation issues, ground instability, and decreased productivity due to increased tramming distances in ore drives. To mitigate concerns, a re-orientation to a transverse layout was proposed. After a comprehensive planning process (Savage, Jordan and Hartman, 2022), a hybrid design at the 1200 L and a full reorientation to the transverse layout on 1175 L and below was selected for implementation. This paper explores the operational and technical insights garnered throughout the re-orientation of the Ernest Henry SLC. Throughout this transition period, a diverse range of operational challenges were addressed, including managing complex drill and blast challenges, dynamically responding to seismic activity, prudently managing water-bearing structures, and improving overall loader productivity. The depth and breadth of these insights highlight the complexity and achievement of reorientating the SLC. By proactively learning from these experiences, EHO aims to enhance the overall safety and productivity of the operation, maximising its value and ensuring success in the long-term.
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  • Published: 2025
  • Unique ID: P-04928-D4G3X8

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