FREE THE LEADERS IN MINING TYRE PH 02 6542 5281 SERVICE, SUPPLY & REPAIR 28 STRATHMORE ROAD MUSWELLBROOK

Vol 2 No 2: October - November 2017 TRAIN WRECK RICHMOND VALE RAILWAY MUSEUM HAS SUFFERED TERRIBLE LOSSES IN THE DEVASTATING FIRE. FIND OUT WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP. PAGE 23

TOPJOSH TERRAS TAKESTRADIES OUT TOP APPRENTICE IN VEHICLE TRADES. HE’S JUST ONE OF OUR INDUSTRY’S YOUNG NOT A BAD LOOKING MINE IS IT? STARS FEATURED FIND OUT THE LATEST ON THIS MONTH. PAGE 14 MALABAR COAL’S SPUR HILL PROJECT. PAGE 9

39-43 Thomas Mitchell Drive Muswellbrook NSW 2333 Australia +61 (2) 6540 9400 [email protected] mrssg.net

› Equipment rebuilds › Fabrication UNRIVALLED › Mechanical › Earth moving and Civil MINING SERVICE SAFETY | CUSTOMER SERVICE | QUALITY CAPACITY & SUPPORT RESPECT | INTEGRITY & ACCOUNTABILITY @ THE COALFACE PH 4932 7379 or 4932 8023 www.jsengineering.com.au IN OUR LAST EDITION, WE FEATURED A STORY ON FIRE SAFETY Australian owned and operated AS EXPERTS WERE WARNING WE WERE IN FOR A HOT AND DRY IT’S GETTING SUMMER, THE PREFECT BREEDING GROUND FOR BUSH FIRES. J&S Engineering are the HOT IN HERE TRACK FRAME SPECIALISTS Sadly, that forecast is proving true and full steam ahead. attitude, determination and passion @ The Coalface always welcomes as we have already seen fires all Thanks to Aussie Pumps and that will ensure a promising future feedback, both positive and over the Hunter, like the one that Maximus, one family will be even for them and our industry. negative, but we know that most devastated Richmond Vale Railway J&S HAVE BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF safer as we have a top of the line fire We headed down Muswellbrook way people couldn’t be bothered Museum. If you didn’t get a chance pump valued at $1500 to give away. to review GJ’s by the Lake and burn contacting us to have their say. to read the fire safety article you some rubber. This is the perfect RE‑MANUFACTURING TRACK FRAMES FOR OVER 30 YEARS! To motivate you to send us some can check it out on our website, or Our feature this month is the place to take the kids for a day of feedback to help us improve we get yourself onto the RFS website outstanding stories of some of fun and excitement and you will and learn how to keep your family the young guns in the industry also be supporting a great family have a $50 gift card for BCF to give OUR CUSTOMERS ARE TELLING US THAT OUR RE-MANUFACTURED safe. We also hope you get behind who are winning awards as they business that has taken a hard out. Send us an email to rebecca@ TRACK FRAMES DON’T COME OFF THE DOZER UNTIL AT LEAST the fundraising for the museum so further their careers and education. knock and is fighting to get back on thecoalface.net.au and it could we can get the trains back on track These guys and girls have the right its feet. be yours. 20,000 OPERATING HOURS ARE DELIVERED.

THESE CUSTOMERS HAVE DONE THE NUMBERS... STRONG SUPPORT FOR LOW-EMISSIONS HAVE YOU? COAL POWER IN THE HUNTER YOU ONLY NEED TO PICK UP A NEWSPAPER OR TURN ON A TELEVISION TO SEE THAT PROVIDING RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ENERGY TO OUR HOMES AND BUSINESSES HAS BECOME A BIG ISSUE.

While politicians in Sydney and energy bills, and make it easier for the Canberra argue on the best way to integration of more renewable energy Publisher ensure the lights stay on across the into the grid. Shane Davey country, most people just want to Recent research shows a new HELE [email protected] avoid rolling blackouts this summer plant would be strongly supported. 0408 759 088 and be able to afford their power bills. A SURVEY OF 2,000 PEOPLE Editor A NEW LOW-EMISSIONS COAL- ACROSS THE UPPER HUNTER Rebecca Connolly FIRED POWER PLANT BUILT RIGHT FOUND 67 PERCENT SUPPORT [email protected] HERE IN THE HUNTER COULD DO FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A Stephen Galilee 0408 769 699 EXACTLY THAT. NEW COAL-FIRED POWER PLANT CEO, NSW Minerals Council Editorial Contributor Hundreds of High Efficiency, Low IN THE REGION, IF IT COULD Daniel James Emission (HELE) coal power plants PRODUCE LOWER EMISSIONS THAN Here in the Hunter, we have the Design are in use or being built around EXISTING POWER PLANTS. ONLY infrastructure, the high-quality coal, Catch Creative the world. Building one here would 22 PERCENT OF THOSE SURVEYED the world class mining workforce help meet the energy needs of the WERE OPPOSED. @ The Coalface and the growing demand needed Hunter and NSW for decades while 14B/169 John Street A similar survey of 1000 people to make low-emissions coal-fired also cutting emissions by around 25 Singleton NSW 2330 from across NSW found 64 percent power a success. per cent compared to our current support for the construction of www.thecoalface.net.au We also have potential sites ideal power plants. a low emissions coal-fired power for a new coal-fired power plant to A new Hunter HELE plant would also plant in our State, with only 33 lock in our baseload energy needs help relieve pressure on household percent opposed. for decades.

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THE HON. DON HARWIN, MINISTER FOR RESOURCES SAFETY‑CRITICAL FUNCTIONS IN THE INDUSTRY ARE EQUIPPED ‘AVE A WITH UP‑TO‑DATE NEWCASTLE CENTRAL COAST KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS. LAUGH WITH 53 Rural Drive 6 Yandina Rd We are living in a time when change is continuous Sandgate, 2304 West Gosford, 2250 and happening faster than ever. Standing still can PH 1300 ALFABS (253227) Ph 02 4967 4622 Ph 02 4322 6220 mean knowledge and skills will soon become outdated alfabs.com.au and the way we work YOUR FORKLIFT SPECIALIST Molecule 1: I just lost becomes less effective. an electron. For this reason, holders Molecule 2: Are you sure? of practising certificates must undertake ongoing Molecule 1: I’m positive. learning over the five-year period of their certificates education and learning, to meet the requirements enhanced competence, and LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 35 YEARS of the maintenance of an improved knowledge competence scheme. base for its workers in Specific learning safety-critical functions. requirements must be These are changes that NEW AND USED SALES • HIRE • PARTS • SERVICE STAY SAFEIt is one of the first lines met before a practising will ultimately deliver THIS MONTH I’M PLEASED TO INTRODUCE YOU TO THE of defence against a certificate can be renewed. improved health and NSW RESOURCES REGULATOR’S NEW PRACTISING major incident in the This means the Regulator safety outcomes for NSW’s CERTIFICATES SCHEME. mining industry. The can suspend or cancel a mine workers. requirements for practising practising certificate if a certificates are set out To apply for a certificate From September 1, people A practising certificate is holder doesn’t comply with in the Work Health and their obligations. visit resourcesandenergy. who work - or wish to work an occupational licence. Safety Regulation. This nsw.gov.au and type - in certain safety-critical It ensures that only The Practising Certificate is an important element practising certificate into statutory functions in the individuals who have and and Maintenance of NSW mining industry are in improving work Competence schemes the search function at maintain the required required to apply for a health and safety in our have the support of the the top right-hand side of competencies can practise. practising certificate. mining industry. mining industry, who were the webpage. About 4000 workers in A well-trained, competent A SAFE MINING consulted extensively. Make sure you read the the mining industry are workforce is critical to INDUSTRY STARTS WITH The schemes will benefit relevant guidance material expected to be issued with managing hazards in MAKING SURE THOSE the mining industry before submitting your a certificate. the workplace. PEOPLE EXERCISING through continued application. Stay safe.

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4 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE MANUFACTURER OF MATERIAL HANDLING EQUIPMENT FOR OVER 140 YEARS @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE LONGWALL GOOD TO GO

AUSTAR HAS RECEIVED APPROVAL TO MODIFY THEIR BELLBIRD SOUTH CONSENT WITH AN EXTENSION INTO A NEW AREA COVERING FOUR NEW LONGWALL PANELS.

The extension will see the extraction Austar Operations Manager, of an additional 3.65 million tonnes Brian Wesley, said, “The approval of ROM coal from the Yancoal provides the Austar team with new owned mine. opportunities for continued mining The approval is a sigh of relief for operations and greater certainty for the hundreds of Austar employees as the immediate future.” well as many more indirect workers, The submission to the NSW as it will ensure no discontinuity Department of Planning received no of work once the current longwalls objections and was approved based are completed. Mining operations upon the clear economic benefits on the new longwalls is expected to to the local area and the negligible continue until 2019. environmental risks. COMMON CAUSE CONCLUDES LOXFORD FIRST PUBLISHED IN 1920, THE COMMON CAUSE HAS BEEN THE VOICE OF MINERS FOR NEARLY 100 YEARS. THIS MONTH IT WENT OUT IN FABRICATIONS PRINT EDITION FOR THE LAST TIME. It has chronicled disasters and and file delegates and their families REPUTATION KNOWLEDGE QUALITY SERVICE tragedies, celebrated triumphs that I have been associated with and accomplishments and held through decades of campaigning on INNOVATION & INTEGRITY to account wrongdoings as it the job, in our mining communities endeavoured to be the voice for and in political battles.” those in our industry who sought to The magazine and Paddy will be SPECIALIST PIPE, FITTINGS AND MANIFOLD MANUFACTURING be heard. greatly missed. MINER’S MEMORIAL DAY AND SUPPLY TO THE MINING INDUSTRY SINCE 1974. The CFMEU made THE CFMEU’S NORTHERN DISTRICT CAME TO TOGETHER TO the decision to cease REMEMBER THOSE WHO HAVE LOST THEIR LIVES AT THE 22ND publication of Common ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE THIS MONTH. Cause and operate OFFICE: 02 4936 1320 through their social The service was held at the Jim evident was the huge support for media platforms due Comerford Memorial Wall, inscribed our industry as representatives FAX: 02 4937 5505 to an evolving media, with the names of over 1800 miners from government, business and but they have promised to make sure members who have lost their lives in our community all attended to pay e-mail: [email protected] district. The names of so many men, their respects. Web: www.loxfordfabrications.com.au stay informed on all the important issues in women and children who never In one of his last public speeches our industry. made it back home. before retiring from his position as Paddy Gorman has As the crowd gathered on this CFMEU General Secretary, Andrew been the Editor of somber occasion, what was most Vickers spoke passionately about the Common Cause CFMEU’s commitment in ensuring for the past 38 years that no more names are ever and the final edition written on the wall. includes his heartfelt Because the significance of the day farewell. “Being Editor is twofold, not only is it a way to of Common Cause has remember and pay tribute to loved never just been a job to ones, but it also emphasises the me, but a way of life.” importance of constant vigilance Paddy wrote. in making safety the number one “For me the most priority in our industry. impressive feature of As the United Mineworker’s Pipe our Union and its great Band played, wreath after wreath ESTABLISHED SINCE 1974 strength are the rank were laid in tribute. Since last’s year memorial another name has been inscribed on the wall, Rix’s Creek truck driver Stephen Norman who tragically died in an accident in December. We pray that Stephen’s name will be the last. est 1982 CUSTOMISED FLEXIBLE SITE SPECIFIC TRAINING FOR WIN! MINING AND CIVIL INDUSTRIES COURSES DELIVERED ON GET CATTY! OR OFF SITE TO CLIENT REQUIREMENTS THE CAT D10T TRACK-TYPE TRACTOR IS A MUST VOC’S AND STATEMENTS OF FOR ANY CAT COLLECTOR. OR training ATTAINMENT FOR ALL PLANT AND HIGH RISK TRAINING IF YOU’RE NOT A COLLECTOR HPOTShigh risk & plant operator training school NOW IT’S THE PREFECT 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE + REASON TO BECOME ONE! ALL COURSES NATIONALLY ACCREDITED For your chance to win, simply SMS: TRACTOR and your email address to 0438 474 290. www.hpots.com.au Limit of one entry per person. 1800 640 580 LTPM/16/01100 6 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 7 @ THE COALFACE

THIS IS THE ACTUAL LAND AND HOW THE WORKING MINE WILL LOOK HOW IS MALABAR’S PROPOSAL DIFFERENT FROM PAST PROPOSALS? 1. Malabar will only mine underground. No need for blasting, with no dust and noise related impacts or impact on equine health or nearby properties. Mining operations will not be seen from the horse studs addressing any impact to the reputation or STOP LOOKING A GIFT operations of the horse studs. 2. The portion of EL 5460 beneath and south of the Golden Highway has been relinquished. This includes the land beneath the Godolphin and Coolmore horse studs HORSE IN THE MOUTH and Golden Highway. 3. Better rehabilitation outcomes. Since 2007, we’ve invested $21 billion Malabar will deliver a far more visually appealing final outcome at Australia is an the existing Drayton Mine-site by using reject stone and rock from the in Australia – building mines, plants, underground mine at Spur Hill or an underground mine at EL 5460 to fill the legacy voids at the Drayton Mine. important part of material handling systems, rail & other

infrastructure, wages, goods and services. GOVERNMENT NEEDS TO GET A MOVE ON AND STOP LOOKING our global business. THE PROVERBIAL GIFT HORSE IN THE MOUTH WHEN IT COMES TO THE ACQUISITION OF DRAYTON’S ASSETS BY MALABAR COAL. THE During 2016 in Australia, we contributed COMPANY’S PLAN TO SENSITIVELY AND INTELLIGENTLY DEVELOP THE We’ve operated here RESERVES OF THE DRAYTON SOUTH RESOURCE AS AN EXTENSION OF THE more than $12 billion to the regional, SPUR HILL PROJECT BY WAY OF UNDERGROUND MINING IS A GOOD ONE.

for nearly 20 years. state and national economies. In May 2017 Malabar announced possible concession and guarantee. the acquisition of the Drayton Factors including willingness to mine and the exploration licence work to a plan that protects and (EL 5460) for the land previously addresses the equine CIC issues known as Drayton South. Malabar and local jobs while significantly has committed to developing a decreasing coal production vastly different underground infrastructure development, mean only project at EL 5460 shaped inaction is stalling a proposal that by ongoing consultation with the makes sense. Do you local community. Using the existing processing, UNSURPRISINGLY LITTLE handling and rail infrastructure GOVERNMENT ACTION HAS at Drayton for the Spur Hill need good HAPPENED SINCE. project is clearly a great idea that This new underground proposal actually decreases the overall mine quality  lament JOBS TAXES & ROYALTIES is completely different from past infrastructure development in proposals and Malabar understands the region. for your 3D printer? it must co-exist with the community Perhaps we could start by giving and other industries and land uses in the project a new name; ‘Spur Hill the area, including local horse studs. East?’ and leave the negative Drayton 15,700 $1.3 b High quality  lament for professional results Spur Hill is a project that’s going connotations where they need to be DIRECT EMPLOYMENT PAID TO STATE AND to happen, and like it or not, the consigned to – History. ACROSS AUSTRALIA FEDERAL GOVERNMENTS Drayton South reserve will always Malabar’s proposal will generate Bulk orders at great prices be there and one way or another that significant economic and social resource will likely be extracted at benefits for the local area, for some point. NSW more broadly and for the Tested in our printer  rst, to ensure it is OF COURSE, SOME WILL DISAGREE. national economy. suitable for you The reality however is that when Benefits include removing any sensibly and fairly assessed on attempt to open cut mine, about 350 COMMUNITIES CAPITAL merits and true impact, this new new direct, long term jobs for the Stocks held in Newcastle, Australia plan jumps every hurdle by a fair region and many more indirect jobs. INVESTMENT margin while solving more than The project will also provide ongoing a few other problems including a support for local businesses and over Order your  lament today: potentially uncertain future. the 30 years of this project, provide $8 m 02 4966 5028 [email protected] $1.7 billion of royalties to the State. REGIONAL COMMUNITY Malabar are demonstrating a smart and sensitive approach showing It’s time for this project to get out of www.thre3dp.com.au INVESTMENT INITIATIVES, IN $895 m committed coexistence and every the gate. ADDITION TO OUR VOLUNTARY ON SUSTAINING AND EXPANSIONARY PLANNING AGREEMENTS WITH INVESTMENT ACROSS OUR LOCAL COUNCILS AUSTRALIAN BUSINESSES

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www.glencore.com.au @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 9 @ THE COALFACE

TITAN HIGH RISK TRAINING

Titan High Risk Training is a brand new training facility based in Thornton NSW. Our staff and trainers have over 50 years combined experience within the crane hire, mining and construction industries. With this experience our qualified trainers and assessors are able to pass on relevant knowledge and skills to ensure every trainee at Titan High Risk Training is adequately trained to perform high risk work competently and safely. Our trainers are dedicated and passionate about providing trainees with the highest quality and compliant training in a professional and safe learning environment. WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING COURSES: ACCREDITED COURSES: • RIIWHS204D - WORK SAFELY AT HEIGHTS • RIIWHS202D - ENTER AND WORK IN CONFINED SPACES PUBLISHERS OPINION THIS TRAINING IS PROVIDED BY TITAN HIGH RISK TRAINING, PARTNERING WITH AND UNDER THE AUSPICES OF SAFETY CORP PTY LTD RTO 91694

confidence we all remember. • TLILIC2005 - LICENCE TO OPERATE A BOOM-TYPE • CPCCLDG3001A – LICENCE TO Make Muswellbrook confident it ELEVATING WORK PLATFORM (BOOM LENGTH PERFORM DOGGING 11 METRES OR MORE) • TLILIC4009 – LICENCE TO OPERATE A SLEWING can continue down the path of • TLILIC2001 – LICENCE TO OPERATE A MOBILE CRANE (UP TO 60 TONNES) SHOW US THE MONEY! revitalisation and diversification FORKLIFT TRUCK AS THE REGION THAT BRINGS IN THE BUCKS TO MAKE NSW THE resident populations. it has been travelling so well. Give THIS TRAINING IS PROVIDED BY TITAN HIGH RISK TRAINING, PARTNERING WITH AND UNDER THE Lake Macquarie and Maitland a AUSPICES OF HALO NT PTY LTD RTO 32485 ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE IT IS, HUNTER MINING COMMUNITIES UP TO $50 MILLION IS AVAILABLE RIGHTFULLY HAVE A CASE TO GET A MORE GENEROUS INVESTMENT well-earned opportunity to take NON-ACCREDITED COURSES: IN THE 2017-18 RESOURCES FOR another step toward the regional FROM THE NEXT STAGE OF THE RESOURCES FOR REGIONS FUNDING. REGIONS PROGRAM. • FIRE AWARENESS • MANUAL HANDLING cities of the future they are already • MDG25 • FIRE AWARENESS AND MDG25 We weathered the downturn storm needed cash to help stimulate Talking to folk in business and on are evolving into. The continued • CONDUCT LOCAL RISK CONTROL and our people and industry then a faster and fuller return to the street there is no doubt things beautification and infrastructure helped deliver another royalty confidence in our towns. are improving but there is also no investment in Singleton will bring bonanza nobody thought possible. The last round of Resources for doubt a bit of a negative hangover a stronger pride and prosperity It’s the right time and arguably Regions funding grants was met still exists from the tougher times. that the town is working hard fair we get a bit of a bonus this with disappointment all round We need a boost to accelerate towards, while Cessnock could time for a job well done. The from Hunter communities. The and turn around the effects and strengthen its tourism gateway BOOK ONLINE @ titanhrt.com.au state government has had a very successful ones got less than they significant social and economic reputation and potential. There’s Or email: [email protected] phone: 02 4966 2551 address: 25D Sandringham Ave Thornton NSW 2322 economically productive win wanted and the unsuccessful cost that the mining downturn had lots of places I could mention and over the last year and Hunter who got nothing were pissed off on our communities. Right now is not enough space. Listen up please communities should too. despite strong arguments for the time for that proverbial shot Mr Government, investment in Kick-start community prosperity their projects, mining community in the arm to accelerate our return our future is a good investment with a bit of well earned and much credentials, history and mining to the community prosperity and in yours.

MINING BREAKFAST WHICH workplace arrangements, generous NOW OPEN BROUGHT TOGETHER INDUSTRY paid parental leave and targeted LEADERS AND GENDER efforts to encourage women to DIVERSITY CHAMPIONS AIMING consider a career in mining have MIXED AGENDER TO HIGHLIGHT THE INDUSTRY’S helped lift female employment in HISTORICALLY, MINING WAS A MAN’S WORK AND TODAY IT STILL IS COMMITMENT TO INCREASING the mining industry to around 13 COALFACE SPECIAL UNDERREPRESENTED BY WOMEN. HOWEVER, THE CHANGE TO AN GENDER DIVERSITY ACROSS ITS per cent – up from just 9 per cent INDUSTRY WITH GENDER BALANCE IS HAPPENING. WORKFORCE. in 1999. MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE 10% OR BHP recently released their “We still have a long way to go as Development The breakfast also saw presentation latest workforce figures which we embark on our second year opportunities, of five prestigious industry $50 (WHICHEVER IS HIGHER) OFF YOUR showed that they increased of change. This is not a linear such as industry scholarships supporting NEXT VEHICLE SERVICE female representation in the last process. We’re changing 130 scholarships, women to advance their year by 2.9%, with women now years of industry convention. as well as careers in the mining comprising more than 20% of Gender balance is a challenge increasing industry. Supported their workforce. This percentage for all industries but if a mining flexibility in by the Minerals is much higher than many of their company like ours can achieve this Council of Australia mining counterparts. progress I am hopeful of what can in partnership with Titan Auto Maintenance is a mechanical workshop specializing in the repair and be achieved throughout society BHP and Downer, maintenance of most makes and models of vehicles. BHP hired 1,000 women during the the scholarships aim more broadly.” Our team of mechanics are experts in their field with each member having their own year and improved on retention, to increase female specialty and qualifications including but not limited to: managing to halve their female ALSO ON THE GENDER participation on minerals turnover from the previous year. DIVERSITY NEWS FRONT company boards. The • SERVICING • TRAILER MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS For a company that has set itself THIS MONTH WAS program has supported • ALL LIGHT VEHICLE • LIGHT TRUCK MAINTENANCE a goal of achieving 50/50 gender THE INAUGURAL 15 women to complete the MECHANICAL REPAIRS AND REPAIRS balance by 2025 across their entire WOMEN IN course since 2011. • MINE SPECCING - FLAGS, CHOCKS, LIGHT company, it’s a significant step. BARS, REFLECTIVE STICKERING, FIRE BHP CEO Andrew Mackenzie said EXTINGUISHERS, UHF INSTALLATION they have made more progress towards gender diversity in the last year than they have made in the past 10.

LICENCE NUMBER MVRL54428 Email: [email protected] phone: 02 4966 2551 address: 25D Sandringham Ave Thornton NSW 2322

10 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE

operations,” Mr O’Brien said. “If areas, and operating only at adverse conditions are forecast, lower levels measures are put in place to • Limiting traffic to main haul roads GONE WITH THE WIND minimise the impact.” • Wetting dry areas by using IT WAS “LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION” AT MANGOOLA MINE IN SEPTEMBER AS Such measures include but are not water carts THE GLENCORE SITE HOSTED PRODUCTION OF THE UPPER HUNTER MINING limited to: • Reducing vehicle speeds to DIALOGUE’S “WINDY DAY” EDUCATIONAL VIDEO. minimise wheel generated dust he • Postponing blasting to avoid g t • If necessary ceasing operations n The video is being made to explain the procedures at Upper Hunter mines unfavourable wind conditions ki results of the Dialogue’s successful and is the responsibility of all • Closing elevated exposed working until conditions improve. Ma Weather Forecasting Project which mine workers.” ib le helps mine operators to predict Each mine operates an extensive ss potential problematic weather po network of air quality monitoring re and put in place work practices to u stations in and around each minimise the impact of dust caused mining operation that provide up HAVE YOUR SAY fut by wind. to date data in real time. These With a working title of “What monitoring networks are supported THE COMMUNITY AND MINING INDUSTRY WILL COME TOGETHER Happens at Mines on a Windy Day”, by the Upper Hunter Air Quality FOR THE ANNUAL UPPER HUNTER MINING DIALOGUE FORUM ON the video will illustrate and explain Monitoring Network; an industry NOVEMBER 22. how Upper Hunter mine sites alter funded, government managed their operations to minimise dust. real­time ambient air quality The annual forum will update the community to help map the Dialogue Chairman David O’Brien monitoring network. community members and industry direction of the Dialogue. The said mining companies and One achievement of the Upper representatives on the Dialogue’s community is a valuable partner government regulators recognise that Hunter Mining Dialogue is the progress over the past year. in the Dialogue and it is very dust emissions from mining activities consistent use of weather forecast important that it has input.” can be a serious issue if not closely information to reduce or avoid Participants will also have the monitored and effectively controlled. air quality impacts from Upper opportunity to help shape the As well as updates on Dialogue future direction of the Dialogue. projects, the forum will feature “The mining industry works very Hunter mines. presentations from experts hard to manage air quality each “By using weather forecast Dialogue Chairman Dave O’Brien is speaking on subjects including and every day,” Mr O’Brien said. information, mines plan ahead and especially encouraging community the future of mining in the “Minimising dust is a part of make better informed decisions members to attend the forum to Hunter region, new rehabilitation daily work about managing air quality at their have their input into the Dialogue which was formed in 2011 as programs and regulations, a collaborative effort to help research on potential beneficial minimise the impacts of mining on use for final voids, an update on “EVERYTHING ABOUT MODERN SOCIETY REQUIRES the Upper Hunter community. the synoptic plan review and more. TRY SOME THAI “The Dialogue’s annual forum is The day will also see participants ELEMENTS WE GET FROM THE GROUND. WITHOUT workshop potential solutions to BRIDGE STEET THAI AT MUSWELLBROOK IS THE NEWEST ASIAN an opportunity for people from WIN! issues facing the Upper Hunter. RESTAURANT IN THE HUNTER AND IS SURE TO BE A HUGE HIT the community to have their say MINING, WE DON’T HAVE ANY OF THAT.” WITH THEIR DELECTABLE AND AUTHENTIC RANGE OF TRADITIONAL on how the Dialogue is progressing As seating for the forum is THAI DISHES. and where it should be headed,” Mr limited, people interested in O’Brien said. attending are encouraged to — KARI ARMITAGE, MANAGING DIRECTOR QUARRY MINING. One lucky reader will have the chance to win dinner to the value of $100. “We are hoping for a wide register their interest at It’s your choice to take the family along or keep it all to yourself. cross-section of people from [email protected] For your chance to win, simply SMS: THAI and your email address to 0438 474 290. Quarry Mining once made a hundred parts for mining companies What began with Kari’s father, then became one of the world’s Limit of one entry per person. in a week. Now, they make a hundred in just one morning. For Kari premier manufacturers of drilling consumables. Armitage, the key to growing was continually reinventing the way LTPM/16/01100 As Kari explains, “There will always be great opportunities for they worked. When they needed new skills they invested in retraining us because the world will always need what Australian mining and discovered that old hands could learn new tricks in CAD design produces. Our homes, our mobile devices, everything about and computer programming. modern society requires elements we get from the ground. When the market was in a downturn, they put on more apprentices Without mining, we don’t have any of that.” and graduates, continuing to provide employment and support the local economy.

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12 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE

ALEX DUGGAN OUR INDUSTRY OF TOMORROW WILL RELY his electrical apprenticeship in 2013. Alex displayed a ON THE TALENT, DETERMINATION AND high level of motivation, YOU’RE HIRED! EDUCATION OF TODAY’S APPRENTICES. undertaking multiple A BRIGHT external courses in his own AND IF THESE STORIES ARE ANYTHING TO time whilst completing his apprenticeship and so it is no JUDGE BY, THAT FUTURE IS GOING TO BE surprise that Alex recently BLOOMFIELD APPRENTICES secured a permanent AWARDED TRADES POSITIONS: L-R- BLOODY GREAT. ANDREW EASDOWN, ALANA SEE, position with MTW working ZACHARY MULDER, BEN HARRIS, BEN FUTURE at the South CHPP. TAYLOR, ANGUS PAPWORTH “I was very honoured to “I guess my dad pushed me towards Craig Burgess, Komatsu’s Mt receive the award for the THANKS TO COMPANIES LIKE BLOOMFIELD WHO TAKE this industry but over time I’ve Thorley Branch Manager said that 2017 Apprentice of the Year ON APPRENTICES EVERY YEAR, OUR INDUSTRY’S become truly passionate about it. He’s when Josh started with Komatsu for Programmed. It was a FUTURE REMAINS STRONG. TOP OF HIS TRADE proud as punch at what I’ve managed as a parts apprentice it quickly wonderful night, allowing to achieve and I’m really happy I became clear that he had the drive me to speak with some For over 40 years The AT RUTHERFORD WERE followed his advice.” Josh said. and passion to succeed. “When fellow co-workers as well as Bloomfield Group has AWARDED FULL TIME But it hasn’t been a smooth the opportunity to complete a my mentors whom I am very maintained a long standing TRADES POSITIONS. ride, Josh missed out on the first mechanical apprenticeship came thankful for all their advice apprenticeship program Throughout their apprenticeship he was after but did along he grabbed it with both hands and help throughout the which has produced apprenticeships these six manage to get a parts apprenticeship and hasn`t looked back. The award past 4 years.” Alex said a large number of tradespeople, like the former is a reflection of the hard work Josh NO SHORTAGE excellent tradespeople for with Komatsu. It wasn’t where he Alison Davis is a mobile apprentices and the ones still our industry. planned on being but he committed put into his apprenticeship and he plant operator at HVO was following in their footsteps himself to the work and study and has carried this enthusiasm over also acknowledged for her Over the past decades have been highly trained JOSHUA TERRAS after a year he got the opportunity to his new role as a field service hard work throughout apprentice electricians, with a strong focus on safety to move into a mechanical technician.” Craig said. OF SKILL her traineeship. Alison fitters, plant mechanics on the job. Their training apprenticeship. Josh has now been at Komatsu for 6 has risen above personal and boildermakers have programs are conducted in JOSHUA TERRAS TOOK HOME THE GOLD AT THE NSW ON TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 19, THE SINGLETON BRANCH been provided with conjunction with external WHILE WORKING FOR years and has secure fulltime work adversity and voluntarily DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRY’S TRAINING AWARDS WINNING THE OF PROGRAMMED SKILLED WORKFORCE HOSTED AN comprehensive training at service providers to make AWARD FOR TOP APPRENTICE IN VEHICLE TRADES. KOMATSU JOSH COMPLETED A that sees him out at sites like HVO undertakes a mentoring role AWARDS NIGHT AT MAMA’S KITCHEN TO PRESENT ITS the Four Mile Engineering these apprentices some CERTIFICATE III IN MOBILE PLANT and Moolarben diagnosing and with her fellow co-workers 2017 MINING TRAINEE AND APPRENTICE AWARDS. division, with this program of the most highly skilled, TECHNOLOGY, BUT THEN WITH repairing mining equipment. “I’m and trainees. now continuing within the knowledgable and competent KOMATSU’S ENCOURAGEMENT always travelling out to new places The award is in recognition of his So, what does it take to win not just These awards are throughout the Hunter “I wouldn’t be where I am Kings Engineering division. tradespeople within the training in Automotive Mechanical WENT ON TO COMPLETE A which guarantees every day will be recognition of trainees it’s a huge accolade to today without Programmed one prestigious award but two? You FOLLOWING THE Hunter and arguably NSW. Technology at Hunter TAFE and CERTIFICATE III IN AUTOMOTIVE interesting and I’m always learning and apprentices who excel be acknowledged. and HVO providing could say working on machines is EXPANSION OF THE The Bloomfield Group is well his work at Komatsu Australia and ELECTRICAL TECHNOLOGY. something new.” Josh said. in their chosen fields, and opportunities like this for in his blood, Josh’s dad is a truck Apprentice of the Year OPERATIONS AT RIX’S into the recruitment process it’s not the first accolade Josh has “From the very beginning Komatsu When he’s not out on site he’s in the with over 600 trainees women trying to get into the was Alex Duggan who has CREEK, SIX GRADUATE for their program next year received for his hard work. Just last mechanic and a teacher at Kurri TAFE have supported me with training and workshop training the other young and apprentices engaged mining field.” Alison said worked across both HVO and APPRENTICES AT and their commitment helps year Josh was named Komatsu’s and when Josh left school encouraged opportunities which has helped me to apprentices who no doubt hope to by Programmed Skilled MTW sites since he started when asked what the award THE GROUP’S KINGS to ensure a promising future Workforce at mine sites National Apprentice of the Year. him towards vocational training. get to where I am now.” Josh said. follow in his footsteps. meant to her. ENGINEERING DIVISION for our industry.

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YANCOAL ON A ROLL YANCOAL IS FORKING OUT ANOTHER US$230 MILLION TO INCREASE ITS POSITION IN THE HUNTER.

Yancoal has exercised their option strengthening our position within to acquire Mitsubishi’s 28.9% the Hunter Valley and progressing interest in the Warkworth coal joint our long-term strategy for FIGHT FIRE venture. The acquisition is expected continued growth and investment to be completed by March next into tier one assets.” year and at its completion Yancoal The deal will increase Yancoal’s will own approximately 84.5% of share of coal production from the & WIN! the venture. integrated MTW operations from Yancoal Australia Chief Executive 64.1% to 82.9%. In 2016, MTW’s total Officer, Reinhold Schmidt, said, “By saleable coal production was 12.3 exercising the call option, we are million tonnes.

In its third year, the forum saw Further predictions are that space experts from all around once commercial space mining We’re the globe gather in Sydney to operations are successful, it will discuss the spectrum of off-earth trigger the colonisation of the mining issues: missions, resources, Moon and Mars, all within the next mining technologies, robotics, 50 years. automation, instrumentation, legal working impediments, business risks, and ethical considerations. The predictions are that within 10 years we will see the first asteroid for you mining and resource transactions taking place in space with asteroids, the Moon and Mars being the focus of attention. OUT OF THIS WORLD Professor Andrew Dempster from the UNSW’s Australian Centre for THE OFF-EARTH MINING FORUM WAS HELD AT THE UNSW ON Space Engineering Research said We know it’s not just the destination SEPTEMBER 20 – 21 AND PROVIDED SOME FASCINATING INSIGHTS INTO “It’s not that far down the road. The THE FUTURE OF SPACE MINING. market is already emerging.” that matters, but how you get there. We’re here to help every step of the way, so you can have peace of mind that you’re on the right track for an exceptional retirement. ®

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So how did you get Funny stories from work PARALLEL ECONOMICS your job? that you can tell? MINE METAMORPHOSIS ‘AVE A Not long after moving to One shift I was home sick Singleton I went to the pub and had the wife ring to IMPACTS AS WELL AS REDUCE with a mate in the mines. I’d tell them. Next thing I’m in RENEWABLES ARE SET TO GRADUALLY TRANSITION FROM COAL CONSTRUCTION COSTS. LAUGH WITH never seen a mine in my life the Super’s office and put OVER THE NEXT DECADES BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN MINES CAN’T Here in Australia plans are so one Sunday he showed on a management plan. It STILL PLAY A PART IN OUR ENERGY FUTURE. underway to use an abandoned me around. One of his mates stated for any sickies I had gold mine in Queensland and the was operating a truck and to personally ring and speak We are already seeing around the of storing and releasing energy Bendigo goldfields in Victoria. The he put me in the passenger to someone. No leaving world some very clever engineering provides an ongoing backup source Queensland mine will not just be seat. After a couple of laps messages. A few months that is transitioning mines into of energy. a site for Hydro energy storage, alfabs.com.au he pulled up under one of later I was crook again and renewable energy sources instead Hydroelectric plants require a but will be transformed into a PH 1300 ALFABS (253227) the loading units and said, keen to follow the plan to of being shut down and discarded. specific geography and are limited renewable energy hub which will “You wanna drive?” I jumped the letter of the law. I rang Take for instance Pumped by land availability, environmental also comprise solar projects. in the drivers seat. No the super and wasn’t able to Hydroelectric Storage (PHS). PHS impacts and being an eyesore does These projects and others like A man rushes his dog to the vets experience. So I’m backing leave a message. I tried the relies on two water reservoirs not encourage communities to them will also ensure communities and when the vet pronounces under the big shovel then company office, message separated vertically. Cheap, off- having one pop up next door. that relied on mining still have his dog dead he demands a off to the dump and tipped it bank again. Tried another peak, renewable electricity is used THAT’S WHERE MINES CAN PLAY economic opportunities, jobs will second opinion. and did a couple of laps. He and it went to the GM’s said, “You done this before?” message bank and left him to pump water into the higher A PART. EXISTING UNDERGROUND still be available in the energy The vet goes into the back room I said “Nope.” I thought this a message explaining how I reservoir. During peak times, the NETWORKS SUCH AS MINE sector and that mines can help and comes out with a cat. The cat isn’t rocket science. needed to give notification water is released back into the SHAFTS AND OPEN CUT MINES secure our energy future long after sniffs the body and meows. The personally under the plan. lower reservoir driving turbines OFFER, CAN MINIMISE THESE the last coal is dug. vet says, “I’m sorry, but the cat I knew a few people in other Then I rang the Brisbane to generate electricity. This cycle thinks that your dog is dead, too.” mines who told me who to apply to. One of the old office. No answer so left a The man is still unwilling to mines inspectors gave me a message again. Then I got the accept that his dog is dead. reference and next thing I London office’s number and The vet brings in a black Labrador. know I’m employed at HVO. spoke to them. Next minute I The lab sniffs the body and barks. Obviously, you’d never get was in trouble for doing what The vet says, “I’m sorry, but the away with it these days. the plan said. I protested that lab thinks your dog is dead, too.” surely I had exceeded my What’s a usual day at work? The man finally resigns to the duties under the plan. That Start at six. Grab a coffee. diagnosis and asks how much he plan was promptly cancelled. Toolbox at 6.30, then find out owes. The vet answers, “$650.” How different is your job which piece of equipment from what you thought “$650 to tell me my dog is dead?” I’m on. I operate haul trucks, you wanted to do when you exclaims the man. front end loaders and dozers. were a kid? “Well,” the vet replies, “I would I’m like a kid in a sand pit only have charged you $50 for my building things and it gives I always wanted to be a initial diagnosis. The additional you good job satisfaction at helicopter pilot but the $600 is for the cat scan and the end of the day. closest I’ve got to it is a few lab tests.” joy flights. MY MINING LIFE Tell me about your crew and the people you Family? work with? 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and with a blue tinge the problem. Davy used an when flammable gases iron gauze to enclose the were present. lamp’s flame and prevent THREE MEN ARE NOW the methane burning inside RECOGNISED AS INVENTING the lamp from passing out THE SAFETY LAMP DESPITE to the general atmosphere. MUCH CONTROVERSY AT A month after Stephenson’s THE TIME. demonstration at Killingworth, Davy The first safety lamp made presented his design to the by William Clanny in 1812 Royal Society and the first using a pair of bellows to trial of a Davy lamp with a pump air through water to wire sieve was at Hebburn a candle burning in a metal Colliery in 1916. case with a glass window. Exhaust gases passed out Davy’s lamp differed from through water. It was Stephenson’s in that the heavy and ungainly and flame was surrounded by required a man to pump it a screen of gauze, whereas continuously and was not a Stephenson’s prototype HELP THE TRAINS GET practical success. lamp had a perforated Within months of Clanny’s plate contained in a demonstration of his first glass cylinder. BACK ON TRACK lamp, two improved designs Davy was awarded £1,000 by the Royal Society in 1816 had been announced, one as well as the carriage shed and able to get the trains operating by George Stephenson, and a £2,000 prize by the WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 16 WAS A DEVASTATING DAY FOR THE platform roads. again anytime soon.” which later became the country’s colliery owners. RICHMOND VALE RAILWAY MUSEUM AS BUSHFIRES CAUSED AN Geordie lamp, and one by He refused to patent his Museum Director Graham Harper They have started up two ESTIMATED $1 MILLION IN DAMAGE. Humphry Davy known as designs and was awarded said their priority was getting the fundraising appeals. First is their track repaired so they can start the Davy lamp. the Rumford medal in 1816. Rebuilding Richi appeal where operations again. “Our first step He accused Stephenson Despite the tireless work of demonstration non-air coal anyone can go on the website and George Stephenson worked will be repairing the Mulbring road at Killingworth Colliery and of stealing his invention emergency services and museum train was severely damaged, track so we can get some services make a donation. was present at both the 1806 however a local committee volunteers to battle the flames, with ten of its sixteen vehicles up and running again. Then we www.gofundraise.com.au/ and 1809 mine explosions. of enquiry gathered in there was significant damage to burned. Two former interurban will start on the No.1 bridge and beneficiary/rebuildingrichi He began to experiment and support and exonerated the museum collection and all trailers, including TF6001, were the Pelaw Main line. We also have devised a lamp in which the Stephenson, proving he had operations have ceased. completely gutted and a third They also will be a trivia night at the hard work ahead of restoring air entered via tiny holes, been working separately partially damaged. Kurri Kurri Senior Citizens Hall In the face of the fast-moving carriages and cars to bring them through which the flames to create his lamp and fire front, much of the museum’s 2.5 kilometres of track were into service to replace what we’ve on Saturday, October 28 at 7pm. of the lamp could not pass. awarding him £1,000. rollingstock collection couldn’t rendered unserviceable due to fire lost. We are hoping the community Tickets are $10 per person for In 1815, he demonstrated Davy and his supporters be saved including many non- damage to sleepers and Number will get behind our fundraising teams of eight. Call Graham Smith LIGHTING THE WAY his lamp to two witnesses by refused to accept their SAFETY HAS ALWAYS BEEN AN ISSUE FOR MINERS AND NONE MORE SO THAN IN ITS air hoppers. The restored 1 Bridge has also been damaged appeals or otherwise we won’t be on 0408 333 604 for bookings. findings but in 1833 a House EARLY DAYS. ONE OF THE BIGGEST ADVANCES TO MINING SAFETY WAS THE INVENTION taking it down Killingworth Colliery and holding of Commons committee OF THE SAFETY LAMP. it in front of a fissure found that Stephenson Before the invention of gases in mines. the methane around the from which firedamp had equal claim to having was issuing. invented the safety lamp. safety lamps, miners used The safety lamp operated by lamp. The flames of the candles with open flames having holes in the screen lamp also helped to notify At the same time Despite all the controversy RICHMOND MAIN COLLIERY REUNION which often resulted in around the flame which did miners of the invisible Stephenson was working each of these men explosions due to the not allow the fire to ignite presence of flammable on his lamp, Humphry deserved to be recognised ON SATURDAY NOVEMBER 25, RICHMOND MAIN COLLIERY WILL presence of flammable gases by burning brighter Davy was also looking at and applauded. PLAY HOST TO A MEMORABLE EVENING WHERE OLD WORKMATES WILL BE REUNITED. WILLIAM CLANNY GEORGE STEPHENSON HUMPHRY DAVY The reunion will celebrate the history of the colliery which was once the largest vertical shaft mine in the Southern Hemisphere and at its peak employed over 1200 men and had a stable of over 200 pit horses. In 1926, the colliery set a world record (which still stands today) for coal production in a vertical shaft mine, with 3,482 tons wound up a single shaft in one 8-hour shift. Invitations will be sent out over the coming weeks and anyone with any association with the colliery is welcome to attend. For enquiries call Graham Harper on 0434 015 149. Left hand Alternate

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The whole room anything about science, I could give goes silent, holding their breath, the conference in your place.” waiting for the response. “That’s a great idea!” says Einstein. The driver looks at him, dead in the “Let’s switch places then!” eye, and says: So they switch clothes and as soon “Sir, your question is so easy to RAISE YOUR GLASS as they arrive, the driver dressed answer that I’m going to let my as Einstein goes on stage and starts driver reply to it for me.” BEHIND GOOD WINES, has sponsored this event YOU CAN SOMETIMES for many years because FIND A GENEROUS we believe in supporting COAL MINE, WHICH the diversity of the Hunter WAS THE CASE FOR THE Valley. It was a wonderful 29TH HUNTER VALLEY night with great people who TEACHING TEACHERS BOUTIQUE WINEMAKERS are so clearly passionate Where There’s A Will SHOW WHICH WAS about what they do, much THANKS TO YANCOAL’S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT founder Pauline Carrigan PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY the same as we are here at FUND, SINGLETON TEACHERS WILL BE BETTER has applauded Yancoal’s THE BLOOMFIELD GROUP. Bloomfield.” Reg said. EQUIPPED TO DEAL WITH MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES. generous contribution. COMMUNITY GIFT The best white wine of the “Having the support of The Show was held over show was RidgeView Wines 5 days at the Maitland “If you’re a student it Yancoal has helped make with their 2009 Semillon THIS MONTH THE RECIPIENT OF OUR $500 COMMUNITY GIFT IS THE We all know the great Showground last month means your teacher this program possible and the winner of the best UPPER HUNTER WILDLIFE AID. THIS AMAZING AND DEDICATED GROUP work the Where There’s A with Crowne Plaza hosting will know exactly how and as a result we hope red was Thomas Wines with OF VOLUNTEERS SPEND THEIR DAYS (AND NIGHTS!) RESCUING AND Will Foundation does in the Presentation Dinner to go about making to make a significant their 2016 Shiraz. CARING FOR THE HUNTER’S SICK AND INJURED NATIVE ANIMALS. addressing and educating on September 14. In sure you feel good and difference in the wellbeing the community in mental attendance to present some RidgeView Wines also function well. If you’re of the community and health issues, and thanks of the winning awards was took out the coveted Karl There are so many ways you can help can prevent a terrible and prolonged one of the participating especially our children.” to $80,000 in funding Bloomfield representative Stockhausen Trophy, and this great organisation, whether it’s death for the baby. Keep your safety teachers it means you’ll from Yancoal their latest Yancoal’s Community Reg Crick. the newly introduced Dr Ray volunteering your time as a carer or in mind first and move the animal if have a comprehensive Development Fund Healey Trophy was won by rescuer, donating money desperately you need. You can tell by looking if project is set to make a “The Bloomfield Group real difference. understanding of what Executive Officer David Hook Wines. needed for milk and food, giving it’s a female and you can normally positive education and Travis Bates said, “Our feel movement under the pouch. Their Positive Education goods such as blankets or towels, or wellbeing is, how to community is fortunate Have a blanket or jacket ready Program involves funding just spreading awareness of what practice it, and how to to have an organisation and wrap up the joey immediately teachers to complete a they do. create positive change in a like Where There’s A to keep it warm or if you’re not Professional Certificate We spoke to volunteer Julie about community.” Dr Kern said. Will working so hard to comfortable removing the joey call in Education (Positive ways people can help and one of the ONCE QUALIFIED, THE deliver initiatives like this our 24-hour hotline and we will take Education) through the things she hoped everyone would TEACHERS WILL THEN that will go a long way it from there.” University of Melbourne’s do is check pouches if they see GO ON TO TRAIN OTHER to improving the mental If you want to find out more about Graduate School any wounded or dead marsupials. TEACHERS ALONG health of our children. We donating or volunteering or want to of Education. At this time of year there’s a very WITH DELIVERING are proud to support the good chance that any females will take a look at the wonderful work of Melbourne University’s THE POSITIVE work of Where There’s A MEET THE VOLUNTEERS AT BENGALLA COMMUNITY OPEN DAY be carrying young and because the Upper Hunter Wildlife Aid then Dr Peggy Kern is EDUCATION PROGRAM Will and sincerely thank head to one of the links below: Muswellbrook Showground - Saturday October 14 joey’s can survive in their mother’s delivering the training TO ALL PRIMARY AND all the teachers who are In addition to all the great entertainment and guided mine tours on pouches for up 5 days it’s important Facebook - and says the course will SECONDARY STUDENTS IN taking on this extra load offer at Bengalla’s Community Open Day this month, you’ll also have the to check regardless of how long the wildlifeaidupperhuntervalley benefit teachers and PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS to be better able to serve opportunity to meet the Upper Hunter Wildlife Aid’s fantastic volunteers. animal has been there. Website - www.wildlifeaid.org.au students alike. WITHIN THE REGION. our children.” Make sure you head to their stall and say hello! “It’s such an easy thing to do and Hotline – 0429 850 089

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24 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 25 ,000

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diversity of situations on the surface Mr Burgess said the win was down which is a big challenge; it’s very to team work and training and also TOP GUNS IN different to underground. We provide thanked Mt Arthur Coal for their critical training and safety leadership support in making it possible. “Our skills so that in an emergency we can win is not just a win for our team, control hazards, stabilise, extricate and but also for Mt Arthur Coal and a treat causalities until external medical reflection on BHP’s focus, commitment care can be provided and do what’s and investment in building a strong OPEN needed to get our people home.” safety culture.” CAPTAIN JEREMY BURGESS OF THE At the end of the day these guys are WINNING MT ARTHUR TEAM SAID generally first on the scene in the pit THAT IN THE 11 YEARS HE HAS BEEN and even in the community at times. ONE DAY CUT A PART OF THE COMPETITION MINES First aid is the foundation of what RESCUE HAVE NEVER REPEATED they do, but the rescue training they A SCENARIO MAKING IT ALWAYS undertake is what that foundation is FIRST AID TRAINING A CHALLENGE. built upon.

BHP’S MT ARTHUR WAS NAMED THE 2017 OPEN CUT MINES RESCUE CHAMPIONS WHEN DON’T BREAKDOWN OUR ABOVE GROUND TEAMS PUT THEIR RESCUE SKILLS TO THE TEST. FROM A BREAKUP WHEN A RELATIONSHIP ENDS YOU ARE LEFT DEALING WITH THE Teams from across the Hunter Valley ability and response skills across a LOSS AND PAIN AS YOU FACE AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE. BUT WHAT and as far reaching as Mudgee variety of scenarios including vertical THAT FUTURE HOLDS IS ENTIRELY UP TO YOU. competed in the 2017 Annual Open rescue, vehicle extrication, and use of Cut Mines Rescue Competition Compressed Air Breathing Apparatus in Singleton on September 15. (CABA), industrial and general first When you planned on spending Ask for help – Friends, family Competing mines included Bulga, aid, firefighting and theory based the rest of your life with someone, and coworkers all want to help Mt Owen, Bengalla, Mt Arthur, HVO, on extremely realistic emergency having that come to a sudden you but don’t want to interfere. end will no doubt leave you Don’t be afraid to talk to them MTW, Ravensworth, Wambo, Ulan response scenarios. and Wilpinjong. floundering and unsure of how to and ask for advice or help. Sure, Mr David Connell, Hunter Valley Mines forge ahead alone. some of it will be unwanted but YOU ARE IN EXTREMELY SAFE Rescue Regional Manager told us, “The Whether the breakup was your they mean well. If you need to seek HANDS IF IT ALL GOES WRONG. difference between underground decision or not, the hard choices specialist help, there are a ton of The teams were assessed on their and open cut rescue training is the that you must make and the services available. disruption it causes in your life can Don’t blame – Okay so maybe one leave you an emotional wreck. person is more to blame – them! LIFE-SAVING SKILLS You may suddenly have to worry But pointing fingers and staying PROVIDING QUALITY SERVICES FROM A about finances when you’ve never angry is not going to help you FOR JUST $110 had to before, you may be dealing move on. Avoid venting on social COMPANY THAT CARES ABOUT RESULTS with custody battles and children media – this will not help and can who are suddenly torn between have serious repercussions so keep two parents, and you may suddenly your venting limited to over beers Course includes: find you are no longer welcome in with your best mate. the home you have had for years. Put the kids first - If you must It’s no wonder that you feel your continue to have the person in your General First Aid problems are too big to solve and life, such as a co-parent, it’s best you are left anxious, depressed and to start treating the relationship CPR maybe even angry. But it’s up to like a new one. A relationship you to turn your life around. that is only about the wellbeing of your child and not about your Basic Life Support Look after yourself – Don’t let the personal lives. situation take over every part of your life. Homecooked meals may Take a lesson from it – Step back not be on the table every night and look at what went wrong and now but that’s a perfect excuse to help prevent the same mistakes For bookings or information contact: go out for some delicious meals happening again. Be honest with friends. Hit the gym or go for with yourself and use it as an a walk as those endorphins from opportunity to grow. Don’t dwell Hunter Valley Newcastle exercise will help to make up for on the past as now is the time to the temporary loss in the bedroom. focus on the future. Mines Rescue Mines Rescue WIN! (02) 6573 9000 (02) 4922 4400 THE MEGA MONTHLY MEAT RAFFLE WORTH $150 COMPLIMENTS OF www.minesrescueservices.com.au The Hunters best butcher of hand picked meaty goodness! FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, SIMPLY SMS: MEAT MASTER AND YOUR EMAIL Nationally accredited first aid supplier ADDRESS TO 0438 474 290. to industry and the community Earthmoving • Mining Services • Polywelding PH 02 4966 8429 Limit of one entry per person. LTPM/16/01100 Mines Rescue Pty Limited (RTO ID 90508) Rehabilitation • Civil Construction • Land Management www.fluren.com.au ABN: 15 099 078 261

26 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 27 GOOD STUFF @ THE COALFACE GOOD STUFF @ THE COALFACE

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HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO US... THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT!

To celebrate our first year we are giving away an MDC DELUXE OFF ROAD CAMPER TRAILER! Complete with tent, annexe and a host of other accessories.*

THE LEADERS IN MINING TYRE SERVICE, SUPPLY & REPAIR RANGER WILDTRAK FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY

Kal Tire Muswellbrook repairs all sizes of earthmover tyres and specialise in the complete range of tyre management services for mining and industry. The facility has an extensive history and reputation for quality repairs within the Hunter Valley over the last 25 years. The Muswellbrook repair facility has long term experienced and qualified tyre repairers who work and live in the Hunter Valley and is a locally based employer. NAVARA BLACK EDITION PH 02 6542 5281 IN STOCK NOW INCLUDING OTHER COLOURS *CAMPER TRAILER GIVEAWAY T&C’S: TO GIVE THOSE AN OPPORTUNITY WHO HAVE ALREADY BOUGHT A CAR OFF US 45 John St, Singleton 28 STRATHMORE ROAD MUSWELLBROOK THE WINNER WILL NOT BE LIMITED TO THOSE WHO BUY A CAR THROUGHOUT THE PROMOTION. IN SHORT IT WILL RUN FOR 3 MONTHS AND THE WINNER WILL BE DRAWN FROM THOSE WHO WITHIN THE PROMOTION PERIOD EITHER Phone: (02) 4040 6200 HAVE THEIR VEHICLE SERVICED WITH US, PURCHASE SPARE PARTS FROM US OR BUY A CAR. FULL TERMS AND e: [email protected] www.kaltiremining.com CONDITIONS ARE ON DISPLAY AT THE DEALERSHIP. PRIZE WILL BE DRAWN ON THE 1ST OF DECEMBER. www.singletonford.com.au

28 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 29 SPORT @ THE COALFACE SPORT @ THE COALFACE

JASON DOYLE WIN! THE SHOUT’S ON US! WIN A CASE OF XXXX GOLD TO CELEBRATE THE GOOD TIMES THANKS TO THE CLUBHOUSE. For your chance to win, simply SMS: CHEERS SOL and your email address to 0438 474 290. Limit of one entry per person. LTPM/16/01100

SPORT @ THE COALFACE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CLUBBY AND LOCAL LIQUOR

around the track and (hopefully) win going into next season. and be crowned champion at the Despite the season being over, Smith Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne is not keen to slow down just yet. He th this month, on October 28 . said he was already stinging to get MEANWHILE, YOUNG BLOKE AND out and race next year in a new age SPEED DEMONS DIRT BIKE SPEED DEMON, RYAN category, the U16s, which will require SMITH HAS BEEN GOING HARD him to ride an even bigger bike. Yew! LIKE A BLAST OF ANFO IN AN OPEN-CUT PIT, OUR REGION’S RACING AND FAST IN THE 85CC Whenever we watch blokes that I was able to make look TALENT CONTINUES TO BLOW US AWAY HERE AT @THECOALFACE. 2-STROKE AND 150CC4- RYAN SMITH like you in that position we easy by training properly STROKE UNDER 13S RACING often wonder what goes and believing in my ability. Between Speedway rider Jason Doyle, with the Novocastrian tipped to edge CATEGORIES, TAKING OUT CODY HEFFERENAN through your mind while That ride felt flawless. who’s just about to wrap up his out his rivals and take the title with SILVER AT THE AUSTRALIAN that bull thrashes about as What’s one word that you maiden world championship title flying colours after a dominating JUNIOR DIRT BIKE TRACK “IT’S THE BULLS AND THE BLOOD, AND THE DUST AND THE MUD. IT’S THE ROPES AND it tries to knock you off? think best sums up what at the Torun Speedway Grand Prix performance at the Stockholm Grand CHAMPIONSHIPS IN TAREE THE REINS AND THE JOY AND THE PAIN, AND THEY CALL THE THING RODEO…” ON Basically, stay on. You you do? in Poland, and local young bloke, Prix, which saw his lead stretch out to BACK IN SEPTEMBER. HIS RECENT RETURN HOME TO SINGLETON, 2016 AUSTRALIAN PBR CHAMPION, CODY Ryan Smith from Singleton, who’s a commanding 22 points. However, know, his moves are so Without a doubt, balance. With his friends and family HEFFERNAN SAT DOWN WITH AND SHARED WHAT IT’S LIKE TO GO HEAD TO HEAD absolutely killing it in the Australian Doyle says it’s not all about winning. quick that you don’t really I rely heavily on great cheering him on from the WITH A CRANKY-ASS, BUCKING BULL EACH NIGHT IN THE PBR. Dirt Bike Racing scene, we reckon have time to think about balance when riding, you “It’s not all about winning the side lines, Smith kept his cool there must be something in the water it. All my moves are pre- just can’t out muscle a bull. final; I am very happy with the and claimed second spot on that makes our young speed racers G’day Cody, Thanks for a great feeling whenever it’s three-hour high class programmed; muscle But also being able to have points I scored tonight,” Doyle told the podium with a blistering so good. taking time to have a chat you complete a high scoring entertainment show with memory would be the best a great balance and order Speedwaygp.com. “Who would have ride full of speed, agility and with @TheCoalface. When ride in a packed stadium fireworks and loud music, way to describe it. I’m just with other things in my Speedway champ, Jason Doyle has dreamt that I could get 18 points in a phenomenal energy that left did you start bull riding and the crowd is going nuts. a bit of comedy from the focused on making that life is very important to my been braining it all season long in GP and extend my lead?” much of the field eating his and how did you get into I also love doing autograph clown based around one of eight seconds, being calm success in the PBR arena. the Speedway World Championships We did, Jason. You can see Jason race dust and sets him up well, signings with the kids. They the most dangerous events this mad sport? but aggressive with my What do you look forward look up to you like you’re a in the world; bull riding. moves as the ride unfolds. I rode my first calf when to most when you come superhero, which is always I was four after being How does it feel when you Who would you say is the back home to Singleton a humbling experience. encouraged by my older climb up on an angry bull toughest bull you’ve ever to ride in front of your It only feels like a short and prepare to ride it right ridden in competition? home crowd? siblings. I rode sparingly time ago that I was one of before the chute opens? Some of the best bulls until I was around seven those little kids. Plus, I get To be honest, I look I’m just trying to give in Australia that have or eight, and that’s when to travel the world doing forward to only having to myself the best opportunity thrown everybody off I started to develop a something that I love. drive five minutes to the competitive nature to win to go the distance with the including myself are Singleton Showgrounds Aside from the tough and really wanted to learn bull and win. I need to be Cocaine, Storm Boy and and not have to deal with competition, how is the to ride bulls properly. supremely confident in my Unbroken. The toughest airports or motels (haha). PBR different from other ability to match my moves bull I’ve ever made the eight But, obviously, being able You’ve certainly done bull riding competitions? with the bull, whatever on would be a bull called to compete at home and that, mate. What would It doesn’t get any bigger or bull it happens to be. I’m Shepard Hills Trapper. having plenty of family and you say is your favourite tougher then the PBR. It’s relaxed, yet ready for that That was in Anaheim, friends come watch is great thing about riding bulls definitely the big leagues explosive moment when the California. He was giving because they only get to professionally? with the world’s best bull chute comes open. I need everybody problems that see me compete live a few There’s just something riders riding the very to be as calm as I can in night, because of his times a year. When it comes about the thrill of lasting toughest bulls. The thing the chute, not panicky and unpredictability, his quick down to getting on the bull, eight seconds that keeps about it too is that it’s not rushing, otherwise the bull front feet and his belly I’m going to treat it like any me coming back. It’s such just a bull-riding comp, will know. rolls. He’s a very tough bull other event. I want to win.

T e Tell ‘em Sol lubby sent ya! CClub House If you can’t find us... HoTel try harder. Singleton’s home of sport, beer, betting, tucker, drive through and good times!

30 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 31 ADVENTURE @ THE COALFACE FISHING @ THE COALFACE

Follow the boys on Facebook, Instagram (@troopy_adventures) YOUNG GUN KOBI or even purchase some SEND US PIC OF merchandise from their website YOUR YOUNG troopyadventures.com.au GUN TO WIN A $50 BCF VOUCHER IF IT GETS PUBLISHED!

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‘TROOPY ADVENTURES’ (WHICH YOU Drayton South Project couldn’t get up SPRING BRINGS WARMER Fast, accurate results support A REAL PAIR OF TROOPERS SHOULD ‘LIKE’) AND IT’S CLEAR THE and running. Cal is now a personal BOYS HAVE PERFECTED THE ART OF trainer working out of Snap Fitness TROOPY ADVENTURES ORIGINATED AS A SIMPLE FACEBOOK PAGE FOR A GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL. AND in Cessnock. WEATHER AND NIBBLE TIME safe operational decisions COUPLE OF BLOKES TO SHARE UPDATES OF THEIR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES WE RECKON YOU COULD CRACK A BASS IN THE BATHTUB AT THE MOMENT THEY’RE NOT ALONE. The Troopy’s are community minded WITH THEIR FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND IS NOW AN INTERNET SENSATION. WITH ANY SORT OF WOBBLE GETTING THE GOBBLE IN LAKE ST CLAIR AND too. “Every July, Dan and I along This Troopy religion has a lot of GLENBAWN AS THEY ARE FIRING ON ALL CYLINDERS. For those uninitiated, Troopy is short adventures on the drawing board, good followers that have learnt that life is with our friends at Troopcarriers of for Troopcarrier as in Landcruiser! times look set to keep on rolling. not all about stress and hard work. Cal Australia host a charity event called The natives in Hunter River and OFFSHORE Over the course of their travels and Cal told us, “Like most Aussie blokes and Dan are proof and a bloody good “The Winter Ramble”. The aim is to get creeks are also fishing well with The offshore scene continues to roll on adventures, Cal and Dan have gained and sheila’s, we both love nothing example of what you can get out of life as many troopcarriers as possible to plenty of good sessions recently to with the snapper fishing continuing to a loyal following. Not only from fellow more than getting out there, tipping a with the right attitude – and of course a the event and raise money for a charity report. Fishing from the tinny in the prove hot and cold with the fish firing adventure lovers, but from people of all few tins by a fire and spinning a yarn troop carrier. of our choosing. This year we had just Hunter had us landing a few good up and shutting down day to day. ages and from all walks of life. Hunter with good mates whether it’s the bush, When not getting as far away from under two hundred troopcarriers and bass and we were also surprised to Some cracker snapper to report from Valley born and bred with a mining beach or even the odd night away on the rat race as they can, Dan is raised just over thirteen thousand land a river golden perch. the better days with most reef edges background, the boys have ticked our Harley’s.” keeping the dream alive at Mount dollars for the Black Dog institute,” Cal LOCAL LAKE MAC and gravel patches fishing well using off plenty of amazing destinations, AND GET OUT THERE THESE TWO DO! Thorley Warkworth and Cal was made proudly boasted. It’s been a while between casts plastics and micro jigs. local and abroad. With plenty more ONE LOOK AT THEIR FACEBOOK PAGE redundant when the controversial Keep on Troopin’ lads. down in the lake though from all Bombing sand flathead along reports the bream and flatties in the the forty metre has proven very system are cranking. Plenty of pics productive lately as we move into the floating around of some serious fish, warmer months. especially the crocs, and soft vibes are October is the month to hit the wider proving to be the key to success. reefs with bar cod and kings before the The perfect plan B in and around currents fire back up. the Lake and channel are the Aussie Kings have also started to show up salmon. Still holding in huge in the shallows with word from the numbers though watch out for the Spearos of some serious hoods working birds working above the fish. Best the local washes around the Bay. method of attack is to arm yourself YOUNG GUN OF THE MONTH with small metal lures or plastics and work them though the schooled Kobi and his old man Daniel recently fish but be mindful to take a stealth enjoyed a session together on Lake St approach while targeting the sambos Clair and the young fella reports that as they will shut down as soon as trolling his Basko Cudgee 45 over the they are fired up with boat noise weed beds has been very productive. Things would be and traffic. Keep floatin’ – Thrifty’s

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32 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 33 EQUIPMENT @ THE COALFACE ACTIVITY @ THE COALFACE CHEERS! WITH ALL THE RAVE ABOUT ORGANIC APEX BEING GOOD FOR YOU, @ THE COALFACE DECIDED TO GET ONTO THE ORGANIC BANDWAGON.

Yep, we’ve just discovered organic wine which we’re told will help PREDATORIN AN EARLIER ARTICLE ‘THE KING OF THE JUNGLE’, prevent a hangover. We have three I REFERENCED THE LARGE HYDRAULIC EXCAVATORS bottles of Acsella organic wine to give AND FACE SHOVELS USED BY MINERS TO LOAD ULTRA- away so one lucky reader so they can CLASS HAUL TRUCKS. AT THE TIME, I INDICATED THAT try for themselves. THESE MACHINES WERE THE ‘TOP OF THE APEX’ IN For your chance to win, simply SMS: RELATION TO THEIR SIZE. I LIED. ORGANIC and your email address to 0438 474 290. This error was not working radiuses and their Limit of one entry per person. intentional and certainly immense ability in moving LTPM/16/01100 was not to deceive, for when dirt, the dragline can dig one it comes to large hydraulic area and deposit overburden excavators they are indeed circa 500 to 600 feet away. TO KEEP THIS MACHINE WORKING RELIABLY, REQUIRED FOUR SHIFT CREWS, WITH SEVEN Located between Muswellbrook and wall. The auto-belaying system meant EMPLOYEES PER CREW. EACH CREW WITH AN OPERATOR, OILER, ELECTRICIAN, WELDER, Singleton at Lake Liddell Sports and I didn’t need to rope in a buddy (pun the largest machines that And so, it was in 1969, the GENERAL LABOURER AND TWO GROUNDMEN OPERATING DOZERS TO MAINTAIN THE Recreation Park is a venue that will intended!) The wall has four different you can load with. There world’s largest dragline was DRAGLINES WORKING BENCH. MY MIND SIMPLY BOGGLES! guarantee excitement, laughter and levels of difficulty and all you need is however a larger ‘apex officially commissioned probably a few screams too (whether to do is clip in and up you go. If you predator’, a machine that for service. Manufactured in fear or delight will depend on you!) make it to the top it’s worth taking a tops all others, a machine by the then Bucyrus-Erie Now I know that there will be corporates truly appreciate), Given such stats, it’s of minute to check out the view. so big in size that it (now Caterpillar), she was those among you, that will ‘Big Muskie’ was the largest little surprise why these @ The Coalface was lucky enough makes all others pale into a mammoth machine of argue that this machine may single bucket earthmoving mining machines captured to be invited to attend the opening GJ’s also has laser tag which is a insignificance and it is my gigantic proportion and not have been the largest machine ever created. If she the minds of generations. of GJ’s newest attraction – a state of family favourite. With everything friends, the dragline. christened ‘Big Muskie’. The and depending upon the were an Olympic wrestler, on With names including ‘Big the art go-kart track. Now I’ve been from helicopters to boats to bunkers When massive amounts stats say it all. She was 22 metric you use, you may ‘Power to Weight’, she would Hog’, ‘Brutus’, ‘The Captain’ around the track a few times when it to hide in or behind as you settle of overburden must be stories tall, weighed 14,000 well be right. By weight, be crowned grand champion. and ‘Big Muskie’, these comes to go-karts, and I can tell you old rivalries with your opponents. removed economically, there metric tons, was circa 500 I admit, ‘Big Muskie’ was To put it into perspective, machines were human this track is as good as they get. Plenty And if that’s not enough to keep you is simply no other type of ft long with boom down pipped by other machines when eventually stripped in marvels. I encourage you of spots to put your pedal to the metal entertained they also offer indoor machine that can dig deeper and had a bucket size (cop however, by capacity (and the ‘90’s, the steel recycled to Google these names, I and a couple of tricky corners to keep skydiving with speeds hitting 160KPH. and more efficiently than this) of 220 cubic yards let’s face it, this is the only would have been enough guarantee you’ll be amazed you challenged. Being new, the track Working at GJ’s is a team of friendly the dragline. With large (circa 168 cubic metres). true metric that miners and to make over 9,000 cars… their history. hasn’t had much rubber laid down and welcoming staff, whether it was on it yet so the extra slide around the moving my kart back in the right corners is an added thrill. direction after every stack with a THANKS TO COMPONENTS ONLY, OUR HEAVY EQUIPMENT EXPERTS Once I’d taken out the competition on smile or giving me tips to conquer the FAMILY FUN the track (doesn’t matter if they were climbing wall, they all helped create a WANT TO KNOW A GREAT PLACE TO SPEND A FUN FILLED DAY WITH THE FAMILY? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN GJ’S BY THE LAKE. only 8 and 10 years old, a win is a win), welcoming atmosphere and make it a it was time to check out the climbing great day. And it’s all thanks to owners Ged and Julie Elphinstone. Muswellbrook born and bred, these two friendly locals had been working hard until the closure of Lake Liddell last year meant a huge blow for their camping ground business. But instead of closing their doors and walking away, they decided to go all in and turn their camping ground into a premium entertainment venue. Because they’re not stopping with the new go-karts. Plans are underway for a speedway and more which are set to turn GJ’s in one of the Upper Hunters best attractions. So, get your family to GJ’s for a bloody good time and to support a great local family owned business.

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34 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 35 THE PIEMINISTER @ THE COALFACE EAT OUT @ THE COALFACE

EACH SPRING I GIVE THE KINGSWOOD ITS ANNUAL TUNE UP BEFORE TAKING IT AND THE MISSUS FOR A SPIN TO CLEAN OUT HER COBWEBS – THE CAR THAT IS, THE MISSUS ONLY LETS ME TAKE HER FOR A TUNE UP AND SPIN ON MY BIRTHDAY IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN.

Get your mind out of the gutter you On the day, we set off from perverts, that proceeding comment Pielament House with a determined IT’S WORTH HEADIN’ TO refers to our annual visit to roar and headed south on the Tunncurry Van Park for a few days, freeway before she gently took us which we always do to celebrate the left off the Maitland exit where HEDDON GRETA joyous day of my birth. the first stop is…you guessed it… Heddon Greta. Before long the Anyway, back to the Kingswood’s Kingswood spluttered to a broken day of the year where she gets to decide where we are going. Now I down stop for the first time in her know most blokes love their motor, life. I couldn’t believe it, she has but as your head of state and never let me down. Pieminister I’m telling you mine’s Soon I was to learn neither would the best. It’s as if this six cylinder, she this time. Perhaps she heard gold painted piece of engineering the groans in my gut. She may and design excellence has a mind have read my mind. As I got out to of its own. After 432,000 km’s see what the problem was all my of faithful service she has never problems disappeared as I looked up broken down and always tells me to see the Heddon Greta Bakehouse what she needs. right there in front of me. It drew When I bought her two days after me in, we feasted on a quick dozen. getting my licence in ‘75, it was Damn good pies! I reckon it was from a retired nun who left the divine intervention from the old church after falling in love and nun. Back in the car a gentle turn of breaking her vows with the parish the key brought the old girl back to handyman one balmy August night life as if nothing had ever happened in scandal that rocked the village and we purred forth back up the she lived in – Heddon Greta. With highway after an emotional visit to only 5000k’s on the clock and the place of her journeys beginnings having only ever been driven to as a young mechanical lass. And I church on Sundays, the car was learnt that Heddon Greta is worth as pure and uncorrupted as Snow visiting for more than the Hunters White before she hooked up with last drive in. They do a bloody good the seven dwarfs. pie too. Bless you children - Sol MARGAN 5 COURSE MENU GETTING BETTER WITH AGE Hens egg Jerusalem artichoke celeriac and parmesan IT’S SAID THAT WHEN YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO YOU NEVER WORK A Roast scallop bonito butter and garden brassicas DAY IN YOUR LIFE. THAT’S TRUE FOR LISA AND ANDREW MARGAN WHOSE PASSION AND Pork belly, apple fennel and crackling HARD WORK SEES THEIR BUSINESS GET BETTER EVERY YEAR, JUST LIKE A GOOD WINE. Jack’s Creek angus rump cap, leek, potato and onion The few times I’ve been THE DAY WE WENT WE girl serving us only got better Margan citrus curd, granite vanilla and meringue to Margan’s for lunch the DIDN’T BOTHER TELLING as the day wore on. If the experience they have created THEM WE WERE DOING standard she set was upheld glass of each of the matching Now in its tenth year, TITAN TECHNICIANS makes it feel more like a A REVIEW BECAUSE WE at every place we went then wines to try and look posh – Margan’s base their menus special long lunch at a friend’s HADN’T PLANNED TO. I’m sorry to say at least 99% it was a good idea. around what comes out of waiters would be out of a instead of a fine dining THE MISSUS AND I WERE I’m not going to talk about of their one-acre kitchen ENTERPRISE restaurant. Even though the JUST OUT FOR A GREAT job. I could certainly get used each separate dish in detail garden. What they don’t place looks like a million LUNCH BUT BY THE END to that service. because this was a meal grow they source from bucks, it’s as friendly and OF IT I WAS SO IMPRESSED I’ll stop blowing wind up that can be described in one the local area including relaxed as a backyard barbie. BY THE PLACE AND THE the service and save some thought. ‘Everything tastes Wagyu beef, pigs from Titan Technicians are your industry leading labour hire experts in the hunter valley Located in Broke this place is FOOD I JUST HAD TO WRITE for the tucker. We went for better than you expect and Krinklewood biodynamic for the past 6 six years. worth the drive. The business ABOUT IT. the 5-course tasting menu leaves you wanting more farm, mushrooms, olive was established in 1996 and is Straight away we were because we are lazy and even though you are stuffed Currently seeking new employees for all of the below-mentioned job title’s for oil and farm gate produce immediate start... surrounded by 100 hectares offered a drink and instantly suspected whatever we by the end.’ The menu we from Broke. of vineyards, a state of the art a cold beer was in my hand ordered would be good. had in the box above had no • FITTERS • FIRE WATCHERS winery, cellar door and the then down my throat. I like While the beers kept flowing, duds and showed how great Make your way to Margan’s – • ELECTRICIANS • SUPERVISORS award-winning restaurant. that kind of service. And the we also decided to go with a this place really is. Thank me later. • SERVICEMEN • PLANNERS • TRADES ASSISTANTS

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36 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2017 37 ENTERTAINMENT @ THE COALFACE TRAVEL @ THE COALFACE

WINNERS! @ THE COALFACE TRIVIA @ THE COALFACE PRIZE WINNERS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE SINGLETON HISTORICAL SOCIETY VOLUME 2 – NO 1: SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER 2017 Where is the Aberdare Central Colliery Poppet Head located? Cheesecake Shop Gift Vouchers - [email protected], carrji1711@ What is the oldest pub in Cessnock? gmail.com, [email protected], [email protected] What road contributed to the settlement of Cessnock? Roberts Meats Monthly Meat Raffle - [email protected] CAT Diecast & Accessories - [email protected] Answers next month. PLAIN Clubhouse XXXX - [email protected] 1. Original name of Greta’s first mine? nvilA Creek Colliery Bunnings Gift Voucher - [email protected] 2. What year did the Branxton railway station open? 1862 3. Before being renamed Branxton, what was the settlement Margan Wines - [email protected] known as? Black Creek ? CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OUR WINNERS! SAILING @ THE COALFACE CROSSWORD

ACROSS DOWN 2. What colour was St Patrick’s Day 1. Dictator assassinated on the Ides of originally associated with (4) March (7,6) 4. What colour was Ford’s first Model 3. Name of the English Queen born in T automobile available in (5) 1926 (9) 7. Which civil war began in 1936 (7) 4. Pirate Edward Teach was better 11. What ship sunk in 1912 (7) known by this name (10) 5. Surname of the first person to 13. The Declaration of what was WEIGH ANCHOR ON YOUR ALL WORK COMMITMENTS FOR A WHILE, climb Mt Everest (7) created in 1776 (12) HEAD NORTH AND PREPARE TO EAT, DRINK, SLEEP AND WAKE UP 14. Which Christopher Columbus ship 6. Who painted the Sistine Chapel (12) TO THE SOUND OF WAVES LAPPING AGAINST THE HULL OF YOUR ran aground on his first voyage 8. US mail service started in 1860 (4,7) CHARTED YACHT. WELCOME TO THE WHITSUNDAYS. (2,5,5) 9. In 1815 Napoleon suffered defeat 15. Ireland’s Great Famine in 1845 was here (8) You don’t need a boat license to go for an overnight stay before taking due to the collapse of this crop (6) 10. What was the first toy advertised sailing around the Whitsunday’s. a short ride by tender to a walking 17. The Roman name for the goddess on TV (2,6,4) There are plenty of companies track on the island that leads to Hecate (6) 12. Chopsticks originated in this operating out of Airlie Beach – some ancient Aboriginal Caves and 19. Surname of the first billionaire in country (5) gateway to the Great Barrier Reef a spectacular waterfall. A bit of the US (11) 16. How many years are in a score (6) – in the sunny climes of tropical lunch under the waterfall and we 18. The most popular board game of north Queensland. Companies who were back on the boat for a swim all time (5) are willing and waiting to take you, and snooze before tea. your family, and friends out on a Day Two and we sailed through relaxing voyage around one of the (Captain) Hook Passage, east toward most beautiful places in the world. Border Island. The snorkelling On a recent trip to XXXX Gold around here is top notch. We saw briefly to Hamilton Island for naturally beautiful island. country, we booked an epic 6-day plenty of colourful life under the resupplies and check out how the Day Six and I think it’s safe to say sailing adventure with Charter waves at Butterfly Bay before taking other half lived it wasn’t long before that everyone on the boat, even the Yachts Australia, who gave us the a short walk up to the top of the we were pushing away from our crew were feeling very relaxed by PROUD TO BE experience of a lifetime by taking island to gaze out into panoramic yacht and paddling solo in a couple this stage. Waking up at first light, views of the islands beyond. MAKING THE FUTURE HAPPEN us to some of the best spots to go - of the on-board kayaks, stopping we caught an amazing sunrise Pure magic. walking across white sands, seeing every now and then to get wet and across the water before weighing historic rock art and the rugged Day Three was made for recharging see what’s doing underneath the anchor and slowly making our way beauty of the headlands, taking a the batteries after a couple of busy waves at Plantation Bay. back to civilisation. But not before stroll through rainforest teaming days, relaxing. Haha. We spent the Day Five was probably the we sailed past Bauer Bay for one last with wildlife, and, of course, sailing day cruising around Butterfly Bay, most touristy of all the days, snorkel next to South Molle Island. SPEND LOCAL over the gorgeous turquoise waters through Blue Pearl Bay to end up at but definitely one of the most Soon it was time to become a land of the Whitsundays. Here’s how it Stonehaven, we dropped anchor for spectacular. Conditions were lover again, back to Abell Point played out. the night, cracked a few cold ones, good, so we floated on down to Marina and then straight to the pub EMPLOY LOCAL Day One we left Abell Point Marina sat back and watched the sun light Whitehaven Beach, via Shaw Island. for one last hurrah. BE LOCAL… and sailed a few hours across the up the sky before settling in below The beach is made up of 98% pure Seriously, if you’ve ever thought Whitsunday Passage to get to our the water horizon. silica and literally shimmers in the about sailing across the seas of the first night’s destination, the Nara Day Four was definitely a favourite sun as we stepped off to explore Whitsunday’s, don’t think about it. Inlet on Hook Island. We anchored amongst the kids. Stopping in the walking tracks and trails of this Just do it.

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