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

Vol 2 No 6: March - April 2018

SENATOR MATT CANAVAN

GLENCORE’S PETER FREYBERG SHOOTING INDUSTRY EVENT OF THE YEAR

THE HUNTER COAL FESTIVAL’S MINING LEADERS LUNCH ON APRIL 6 WILL HOST DAN REPACHOLI, AKA MINER DAN, HAS WON TWO GOLD AND TWO FEDERAL MINSTER FOR RESOURCES SENATOR BRONZE MEDALS AT THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES AND IS MATT CANAVAN AND HEAD OF FOR GOLD GLENCORE’S GLOBAL COAL HOPING TO ADD SOME MORE AT THE GOLD COAST ASSETS PETER FREYBERG. PAGE 9 COMMONWEALTH GAMES IN APRIL. PAGE 31

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The mining industry is going from Lures Competition, so thank you strength to strength with plenty of to everyone who entered and new ventures underway. congratulations to our two lucky There’s been a lot of action winners, Oliver and Kahlee. We also happening in the industry so far this love seeing the Young Gun entries year, with Hunter Valley Operations every month, keep em coming! and Bloomfield Colliery both For health this month we are Leading undercarriage looking to expand and new projects talking about ‘Digital Detox’. It’s for Malabar, United Wambo and hard to believe that in just a couple Dartbrook in the making. Along with of decades our phones now have the recent news of the Bayswater such influence over our lives. Find upgrade it looks out some tips to help you take a solutions and components extremely promising for local jobs step back. and the economy. Don’t miss checking out My Mining Whether our customers need components or complete undercarriage We were overwhelmed with Life this month as we look back with all the entries for the Zacatak retired miner Pat Quinn reminiscing solutions, our Hunter Valley team are on hand to provide a full range of about the good old days. services and technical support to meet every requirement. LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN!

THE HUNTER COAL FESTIVAL KICKS OFF ON APRIL 6 WITH FESTIVITIES RUNNING UNTIL APRIL 15. ITM is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of undercarriage components and complete undercarriage solutions. We have the experience and know-how to meet all This will be the third Hunter organised by the Singleton our customers’ needs: whether they require assistance during Coal Festival and represents a Business Chamber with support great opportunity for the local from Muswellbrook Chamber the design stage or application in the field, service or technical community to come together of Commerce and Industry, support, our experts are always on hand to help our customers to and celebrate all the good things Council, and Stephen Galilee develop new solutions and deliver innovation. mining brings to the Hunter. The Singleton Shire Council. CEO, NSW Minerals Council Contact: Paul Jones 0499 976 150 NSW Minerals Council is proud to AS WITH PREVIOUS YEARS, Publisher once again sponsor the Festival Shane Davey ONE OF THE FESTIVAL’S MAJOR markets in Southeast Asia. this year. EVENTS WILL BE THE SINGLETON [email protected] The themes of this year’s festival COMMUNITY DAY AND PARADE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A NUMBER 0408 759 088 OF YEARS, IT FEELS LIKE WE are ‘community, coexistence, ON SATURDAY APRIL 7. DURING Editor CAN GENUINELY CELEBRATE AN innovation and education’ THE LAST HUNTER COAL Rebecca Connolly UPSWING IN HUNTER MINING PH (02) 6541 3207 highlighting what mining brings FESTIVAL, THE COMMUNITY DAY [email protected] Titan ITM is active in major mining centres worldwide AND SHOW SUPPORT FOR 26 Strathmore Rd Muswellbrook NSW to the Hunter. Our miners, their ATTRACTED AN ESTIMATED 6,000 0408 769 699 families and local suppliers are PEOPLE AND WE’RE HOPING FOR OUR LOCAL INDUSTRY THAT all vital to our ‘community’. THE SAME THIS YEAR. CONTRIBUTES SO MUCH TO THE Editorial Contributor ITM TrackAdvice HUNTER AND TO NSW. Daniel James Our industry has ‘coexisted’ There’s been some tough times for INTELLIGENT TRACK MAINTENANCE with agriculture and other local our industry, however 2017 saw The Hunter Coal Festival is a Design industries in the region for real improvement. We’ve seen fantastic event that showcases the Catch Creative ITM TrackAdvice analyses all the data generated during inspection around 200 years. ‘Innovation’ in importance of our industry to the and forwards the results to our experts who are always on hand to higher and sustained commodity rehabilitation, health and safety is prices that have carried through to Hunter and to NSW as a whole. @ The Coalface give the best advice and assistance: specialized staff, available 24 14B/159 John Street hours a day, 365 days a year. They, in turn, provide the necessary a critical focus of Hunter mining 2018. There are more local mining It celebrates the aspects of our suggestions to ensure maximum productivity, greater durability and and we strive to ‘educate’ our jobs in Hunter which is great news industry that unite the community. Singleton NSW 2330 lower maintenance costs. decision makers and the wider for the regional economy. We’ve I’d encourage all our mining www.thecoalface.net.au community about how much our also seen solid and steady demand families, local businesses and Advertising Enquiries local industry contributes to NSW. for our coal from our traditional anyone who supports mining to get Shane: 0408 759 088 The Hunter Coal Festival is trade partners as well as emerging involved in this unique event. [email protected]

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THE COMMITMENT FROM AGL It comes after NEWS THAT AGL WILL SPEND $200 MILLION TO UPGRADE THE TO UPGRADE BAYSWATER – the company IS WONDERFUL NEWS FOR THE HUNTER. THE SECOND LARGEST POWER announced the closure of the STATION IN NSW – WILL PLAY last year, AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN OUR which is less than five kilometres The upgrade will create 90 jobs all without increasing emissions. ENERGY SECURITY. from Bayswater. over the four years that it will take By replacing the original turbines to improve the station’s capacity with modern turbine technology, The move is part of the company’s The company will replace the and efficiency. Bayswater will have an additional New Generation Plan, which energy lost through Liddell through This is excellent news all around. 100MW capacity. The four existing invests across a range of a range of strategies, including Not only will it provide jobs for turbines will be replaced during technologies – coal, gas, wind, gas-fired power plants, renewable the coal and related industries in planned unit maintenance outages solar and potentially battery and energy such as solar and wind, and the Hunter, but it will also provide and should be fully operational pumped hydro – to deliver ongoing a battery system to be installed enough energy for 100,000 homes – by 2022. energy security. at Liddell.

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WIN! POWER UP MICHAEL JOHNSEN MP, MEMBER FOR UPPER HUNTER HAS CALLED FOR THE NSW GOVERNMENT TO USE SOME OF THE FUNDS FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S PURCHASE OF THE TO BUILD A NEW COAL FIRED POWER STATION IN THE UPPER HUNTER. MICHAEL JOHNSEN MP “We need more power in NSW and the new power station, increasing generation high energy low supply and lowering prices, emissions (HELE) technology so let’s get on with it”, Mr. coal fired power station is Johnsen said. ready to build.” Michael said. THE PURCHASE OF THE “WE HAVE THE NSW AND VICTORIAN INFRASTRUCTURE, WE SHARES OF THE SNOWY HAVE THE NEED, WE HAVE HYDRO IS EXPECTED TO BACK UNDERGROUND NET OVER $4BILLION THE EXPERTISE AND NOW AUSTRALIAN PACIFIC COAL HAS LODGED AN APPLICATION TO MODIFY THE WE HAVE THE FUNDS.” FOR NSW. IT WOULD BE EXISTING MINING APPROVAL TO RECOMMENCE UNDERGROUND MINING SENSIBLE TO UTILISE OPERATIONS AT THE DARTBROOK COAL MINE. In Mr Johnsen’s opinion, investment into a new HELE SOME OF THOSE FUNDS coal fired power station TO SECURE POWER AND A LOWER COST The modification proposes AUSTRALIAN PACIFIC restart of the existing makes sense. He says it will FOR CONSUMERS. bord and pillar mining of COAL SAYS THE REOPENED coal washery. replace base load power the Kayuga coal seam (as an MINE WOULD EMPLOY The environmental from retired old generation “The only thing stopping alternative to the approved 99 MINEWORKERS, assessment is expected power stations and ensure us from building a new longwall mining activities) WITH 26 JOBS CREATED to be submitted in May, we have safe, secure and HELE power station is the and changes to the method DURING THE EARLY with determination of the affordable energy for NSW political will, that’s not an of transferring coal to the CONSTRUCTION PROCESS. application anticipated for decades to come. excuse in itself. We have a train loadout facility. The The modification will not in the September quarter “When I’m talking with responsibility to our citizens modification also seeks increase the footprint and first production within families and business, their to provide low emissions, to extend the period of of approved mining six months thereafter main concern is rising base load power at approval by 5 years until 5 operations nor involve which will see mining energy costs. We can fix affordable prices, so let’s get December 2027. recommence in 2019. this by building a new on with it”, Mr. Johnsen said.

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HUGE COMMUNITY DAY We’re CELEBRATIONS… BE THERE! SINGLETON SHOWGROUND WILL BE CENTRE STAGE FOR THE HUNTER COAL FESTIVAL’S MAJOR COMMUNITY EVENT ON SATURDAY, APRIL 7.

working The Showground will host the AND THEIR COMMUNITY Singleton Community Day from PARTNERS. THE INDUSTRY 11am to 4pm with a massive EXHIBITS WILL BE JOINED BY schedule of entertainment and DISPLAYS BY COMMUNITY AND for you activities planned to suit the entire CHARITY GROUPS. family. Entry to the community Mining company representatives day is free. will be on hand at the displays PROFESSIONAL FREESTYLE to explain how their company MOTOCROSS STARS, FREESTYLE operates and interacts with the KINGS, WILL BE THE HEADLINE community and answer any ACT FOR THE DAY – WITH THREE questions and there will be lots of We know it’s not just the destination THRILL-PACKED DISPLAYS giveaways and prizes. that matters, but how you get there. OF MOTORCYCLE AERIAL In conjunction with the Upper ACROBATICS SCHEDULED FOR We’re here to help every step of the Hunter Mining Dialogue’s 12.30PM, 2.30PM AND 3.30PM. community engagement display, way, so you can have peace of mind Popular children’s entertainers, rehabilitation experts from the that you’re on the right track for an The Little Scallywagz will bring Upper Hunter’s mines will be on big smiles to little faces with two hand to explain the rehabilitation exceptional retirement. performances at noon and 2pm. process and answer any questions For the big kids we have plenty regarding how and why mined We can help with super, pension and of action too. The Australian land is regenerated for its specified insurance. Call us on 13 MINE (13 64 63) champion mines rescue team from use post-mining. to find out more or join online at Wambo Mine will demonstrate its The rehabilitation display will winning rescue skills at 1pm. The showcase mining companies’ mine.com.au/join NSW tug o war championships will commitment to best practice have heats throughout the day and rehabilitation including how the final for the title scheduled companies progressively for 3pm. rehabilitate land disturbed Cash prizes and trophies up by mining, the government for grabs in the Coal Shoveling bond system and the rules and competition. Competitors will be regulations to which the mining timed as they shovel 400 kilos of industry adheres. coal into a bin. Register on the PACKED FULL OF ACTIVITIES, day or call Peter on 0427 712 613 ENTERTAINMENT AND for details. INFORMATIVE DISPLAYS, THE THE MINING INDUSTRY WILL SINGLETON COMMUNITY DAY ALSO BE ON SHOW WITH IS GUARANTEED TO BE THE DISPLAYS BY MINING COMPANIES COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR.

Mine Wealth + Wellbeing 13 MINE (13 64 63) | [email protected] | mine.com.au ‘AVE A AUSCOAL Superannuation Pty Ltd ABN 70 003 566 989 AFSL 246 864 Trustee for Mine Wealth and Wellbeing Superannuation Fund ABN 16 457 520 308 LAUGH WITH PH 02 6571 2983 How do crazy people go through the forest? They take the psycho path.

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THE 2018 MINED LAND Professor Tim Roberts is the Director REHABILITATION CONFERENCE WILL of TFI and said “I am hoping that our BRING LEADING PROFESSIONALS, 8th annual conference will bring TIME FOR REHAB STAKEHOLDERS AND COMPANIES together practitioners, professional TOGETHER TO IMPROVE THE FUTURE rehabilitators, researchers, regulators OF MINING REHABILITATION. and the general public to hear the latest research, on-ground The 8th Annual Best Practice experiences both successful and Ecological Rehabilitation of Mined not-so successful, and to discuss Lands Conference is organised by ideas for future productive uses of the Tom Farrell Institute for the the lands post-mining that fit with Environment (TFI) and the Hunter growth plans for the region and with Environmental Institute (HEI) the maintenance of endangered and is a significant event on the ecological communities.” calendar. With more The conference will be held on April 12 than 300 delegates anticipated at Wests New Lambton. to attend, it is one of the largest mining rehabilitation conferences www.tomfarrellinstitute.org/ in Australia. mlrc2018

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about 1500 across the North and PAC ON TRACK South pits. FEBRUARY SAW TWO PAC ON THURSDAY FEBRUARY 8 THE MEETINGS IN SINGLETON FOR PAC MEETING FOR THE UNITED CUBEX MINE PROJECTS, WHICH IF WAMBO OPEN CUT MINE PROJECT AGAIN SAW A VERY SMALL APPROVED WILL HAVE GREAT TURNOUT. ECONOMIC BENEFITS FOR THE HUNTER REGION AND If it goes ahead, The United Wambo Intrinsically Safe LED Lights OUR COMMUNITIES. Open Cut Mine Project will sustain the existing 250 jobs at Peabody’s For Hazardous On February 6 the PAC meeting Wambo open cut and create an for the Hunter Valley Operations additional 250 mine workers jobs Environments South Modification 5 saw only a and a further 120 construction handful of people turn up. jobs during the development stage. Underground The modification which has been The mine will extract 150 million approved by the Department of tonnes of thermal and semi-soft No additional enclosures required. Over time, the CUBEX I.S. Lights Planning and Environment will coal over a 23-year period and will generate $370 million in mining by Nautitech offer significant cost savings due to a reduction in see the mine extract an extra 56.8 million tonnes of coal, resulting in royalties for the state government. inspections, maintenance, and machinery down time. an extra $243 million in royalties With minimal opposition for both and $160 million in taxes and projects and the Department of lifting its annual production from Planning and Environment already MARKET LEADING PRODUCTS DEVELOPED AND PRODUCED IN AUSTRALIA 16 million tonnes to 20 million approving both projects, it looks www.nautitech.com.au +61 (2) 9899 6857 [email protected] tonnes. Workforce numbers would promising that the PAC will also remain the same, which total decide in their favour.

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AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST PLANNING AHEAD FISHING CHALLENGE BLOOMFIELD COLLIERY HAS LODGED AN APPLICATION WITH THE NSW DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT TO CONTINUE OPERATIONS AT THEIR EAST MAITLAND OPEN CUT SITE UNTIL 2030.

The mine is approved for operation until 2021 and is seeking to extend that for an additional 9 years, allowing the 90 staff to maintain their jobs until 2030. Bloomfield Collieries CEO Brett Lewis is confident that the resources were there to justify an extension until 2030. “It gives us the opportunity to mine out the full resource, which means we maintain jobs,” he said. Mr Lewis said the organisation In addition to extending the has been working with the NSW operation until 2030, the proposed government for the past several modification also includes a months in negotiating the request to move the final void extension and he was confident about 200m to the west. There’ll be of a positive outcome in the no change to existing production SUNDAY 18 MARCH 2018 coming months. limits, which are capped at 1.3m “We’re hoping to get approval tonnes of coal per annum. RIGHT ACROSS AUSTRALIA before the middle of the year. It’ll Bloomfield Colliery has a long really underpin the security of the and proud history in the area, mining operation and employment last year celebrating its 80th year IN CASH here,” he said. of operation. $ 210,000 & PRIZES Stacer 469 Outlaw Tiller Steer Powered by Evinrude E-tec 75hp plus trailer valued at $25,000 REGISTER NOW FOR ONLY $25* & Receive a Limited Edition Cap, GLENCORE’S SENATOR Brag Mat & Sticker! PETER FREYBERG MATT CANAVAN

Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit LEADERS LUNCH To REGISTER, log onto FEDERAL MINSTER FOR RESOURCES SENATOR MATT CANAVAN WILL DELIVER THE KEYNOTE ADDRESS TO THE HUNTER COAL FESTIVAL’S MINING LEADERS LUNCH WHICH IS BEING BILLED AS ‘THE HUNTER’S www.pirtek.com.au MINING INDUSTRY EVENT OF THE YEAR’.

Head of Glencore’s Global Coal is one of the most important men Contact: Assets Peter Freyberg will also in the coal industry. His insight Dubbo Muswellbrook speak at the Friday, April 6 lunch into the state of the coal industry Call 0417 844 578 88 Maitland St. (02) 6543 4255 to be held at Club Singleton. – both in Australia and world- Singleton Business Chamber wide – should be of vital interest to Gunnedah Newcastle 26 Barber St. Gunnedah (02) 6742 4988 20 Munibung Rd. Cardi (02) 4954 5933 President Sue Gilroy said the anyone who has an involvement in Mining Leaders Lunch was shaping the mining industry” Lithgow Orange up to be a “not to be missed event.” Senator Canavan and Mr 1 Ian Holt Dr. Lithgow (02) 6355 7004 97 Elsham Ave. Orange (02) 6360 2944 “WITH THESE TWO HIGH- Freyberg’s addresses at the POWERED SPEAKERS IT SHOULD lunch will be augmented by a Maitland Singleton BE THE MINING INDUSTRY EVENT presentation from the Upper 129 Racecourse Rd. Rutherford (02) 4932 1120 14 Maskey Rd. Mt Thorley (02) 6574 2782 OF THE YEAR IN THE HUNTER,” Hunter Mining Dialogue, and Mudgee Tamworth MS GILROY SAID. presentations from Coal Services 36 Rd. Mudgee (02) 6372 3454 4/61 Barnes St. Tamworth (02) 6762 0600 “Senator Canavan is a senior and Mine Wealth + Wellbeing. and very important figure in the For more information on . He has the Hunter Coal Festival and direct involvement in government the Mining Leaders Lunch decisions and policies and is a including ticket purchases 1 34-222 strong advocate for regional see huntercoalfestival.org. employment and economies. au alternatively tickets can be 24 HOURS - 7 DAYS “Likewise, as Head of Glencore’s purchased at www.pirtek.com.au Global Coal Assets, Peter Freyberg www.stickytickets.com.au/64635

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PUBLISHERS OPINION KEEPING PH 02 6571 2983 “Why did the cook spill his soup? Because there COAL COMMUNITIES STRONG was a leek in the pot.” did major stuff to improve it is showing. talking ourselves up and THIS MONTH’S OPINION IS ABOUT COAL COMPANIES, our image. The industry seems to be driving visibility within our COMMUNITIES AND PEOPLE STAYING VISIBLE AND communities, even when REMEMBERING MINING’S ROLE AND CONTRIBUTION TO Then things changed a bit retracting back a bit into OUR LIVES IN THE HUNTER AND BEYOND. I think. the days of keeping its times are better like these, Energy prices and security head down. Getting on then we will slip backwards went out of control and with the job is fair enough, and we will have to start About four years ago perceived veil of secrecy, an finally the general public but a quieting down of our from the beginning again. I convinced a rag tag openness and new visibility and the media started to social licence presence and We need company offices in bunch of passionate locals that had started a bit before realise the importance of promotion at a local level is towns not just for openness including Peter Eason that I came on the scene really coal. Anti-coal activism not going unnoticed. Town and accessibility but the we needed a festival to kicked in. The Hunter Coal also finally received a offices, initiatives and other significant economic celebrate our coal people, Festival was just one small well-deserved reality check. stuff seem to be thinning benefits as well. industry and our coal part of that effort. and people on the street are People need to stay vocal communities. At the time Globally, the coal industry People spoke up. Coal telling me just that. It could locally. Keep talking, the downturn was starting rebounded and so too did companies, communities be a figment of people’s to kick in and the anti coal local jobs and confidence. promoting and fighting and people alike came imagination, but I don’t activists and mainstream Now things have improved, hard for our industry totally disagree. Don’t get media seemed to be getting out and fought for their I think we have started and local communities. me wrong; the industry the upper hand in speeding future. I believe community to slip back into some Companies need to is still doing great work up our demise. Jobs were engagement stepped up old habits. Despite the reinforce community out there. being lost by the thousands a notch and the openness Coal Festival, important visibility and passion so we and many businesses and achieved in other areas initiatives like The Upper And it is not just the mining don’t lose any of the hard people were hitting the wall did a lot to improve Hunter Mining Dialogue and companies. Our everyday fought ground we have as well. our credibility. the solid ongoing work of people and workers have gained in recent years. The industry went in At the time you could see it the NSW Minerals Council stopped talking it up just And next month, get out to fight and fight hard. on the street and all and one and Minerals Council of as much. and enjoy the terrific After years of somewhat made their voice heard. You Australia, we are forgetting So, what’s the point I events in this year’s Hunter flying under the radar and could hear it in every home to keep up the fight and hear you ask? If we don’t Coal Festival – it’s time operating in a sometimes and business. The whole lot visibility at a local level and passionately keep fighting, to celebrate!

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relevant and focused on the issues prioritised by the community and TALK THE TALK industry,” Mr O’Brien said. positions available on the “IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THE THE UPPER HUNTER MINING Dialogue’s Joint Working Groups. VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY IS FULLY REPRESENTED ON THE DIALOGUE IS LOOKING FOR Mr O’Brien said the working DIALOGUE, SO WE ARE INVITING PEOPLE WHO WANT TO HELP groups met quarterly and played COMMUNITY MEMBERS FOR MAKE THE UPPER HUNTER A an important role by helping the EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST IN BETTER PLACE FOR ALL TO LIVE. Dialogue choose and implement its JOINING OUR LAND AND WATER strategies and activities including MANAGEMENT AND EMISSIONS projects aimed at addressing The Dialogue was formed in 2011 AND HEALTH JOINT WORKING mining impacts in areas such to address the cumulative impacts GROUPS.” of mining through industry and as air and water quality, land Community members can community working together management and rehabilitation express their interest in joining and is encouraging community and planning the Hunter of the IT’S OFFICIAL the Dialogue at information@ members to join the Dialogue team. future. MALABAR COAL LIMITED nswmining.com.au HAVE ANNOUNCED THAT The Dialogue’s Chairman Dave “The Dialogue has had major www.nswmining.com.au/ ACQUISITION OF 100% OF THE O’Brien said there were a number successes over the past few years dialogue/home DRAYTON MINE ASSETS IS NOW of community representative and it is important that it stays COMPLETED.

The Drayton mine assets provide the infrastructure that will be used in Malabar’s Spur Hill Project and includes a coal preparation plant, coal stockpiling facilities, a rail loop, administration offices, workshops and other services. The acquisition also includes Exploration Licence 5460 (EL) which contains the condition that restricts any potential development to underground mining only. Malabar has commenced technical studies to prepare a development application which incorporates the existing Drayton mine infrastructure.

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All of the initial group have applied Arthur should be proud of their for max term contracts to continue commitment to bring this forward CONGRADUATION! their mining careers and Mount thinking program to life. THE FIRST GROUP OF CHANDLER MCLEOD TRAINEES AT MOUNT ARTHUR’S DIVERSITY TRAINEESHIP PROGRAM GRADUATED WITH FLYING COLOURS AT A RECENT EVENT TO MARK THE PROUD MILESTONE.

On the day, the first 7 of 38 trainees otherwise have been very difficult graduated with a Certificate 2 to attain. in Surface Construction. The Chandler Mcleod’s spokesperson traineeship was delivered via a on the day summed it up with, combination of class-based modules “This group were not only highly and 9 months behind the wheel of motivated and grateful for the a haul truck. Through the program opportunity, they worked hard to Indigenous and female participants attain their qualifications and prove from fields as diverse as hospitality, they were also up to the job and civil, nursing and hairdressing were committed for the long term.” able to realise a dream that would

COMPLETE COMMITMENT COMPLETE PARTS HAVE QUICKLY the gate just over a year ago with Westlakes BECOME A HUNTER MINING the most recent starting in the last SUCCESS WITH A BRIGHT FUTURE, two months. SO IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT PART OF Stroke Recovery Club THAT INCLUDES HELPING TO BUILD GM Craig Tanzer told us, BRIGHT FUTURES FOR PEOPLE JUST “Apprentices are a long-term Held at Wangi Workers Club on the 1st and 3rd Monday of every STARTING OUT. investment for us and we believe month, the Westlakes Stroke Recovery Club offers recovery the training we can provide will assistance, chair exercises, activities, outings, games and They decided one of the best ways yield valuable rewards into the information in a friendly and welcoming environment. to give back to the community future. This is a great opportunity and industry was to give five first for local people to join a dynamic We are looking for new members, and all are welcome to join. year plant mechanic apprentices and exciting company and it the chance to take their own shot delivers another five people to the at success. local industry workforce. They For more information call 1300 650 544 When we went to say hi it was also provide personal gratitude immediately clear the boys were as you watch them mature into enjoying themselves and the place responsible adults.” has welcomed them with open arms. The apprentices get the opportunity A combination of mature age and to work on a bit of everything, we school leavers, Clayton Kernow, were told, giving them a set of skills Abraham Papworth, Brodie as complete as the name on the Sutherland, Joseph Thomas and Caleb building. Good luck guys…now get Upward started coming through back to work.

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For your chance to win, simply SMS: COMPLETE PARTS and your email address to 0438 474 290. Limit of one entry per person. LTPM/17/02507 FROM PIT TO POND operation, and shallow A MINING MATE RECENTLY GOT ME OUT TO TAKE A LOOK AT HIS NEW water operation and TOY - AN AMPHIBIOUS EXCAVATOR. A VERY UNIQUE AND EXPENSIVE are way more versatile TOY THAT IS FAST BECOMING A BUSINESS GOING PLACES OTHERS CAN’T. than traditional barge- mounted dredgers and Former OCE Mick Rose was pretty REGULARLY WORKING long reach excavators. happy with mining life and the life THROUGH CHALLENGES With loads of potential it helped him build, but like a few ASSOCIATED WITH WATER BASED situations to use a others out there, often wondered INFRASTRUCTURE PROVED TRICKY machine like this and how all that experience and AND HAZARDOUS WITH FEW pretty much no direct knowledge could be used to create OPTIONS TO DO THE JOB. THEN competition, Mick a new opportunity. With years of HE CAME ACROSS THE ANSWER. decided to take the experience operating every piece AMPHIBIOUS EXCAVATORS. biggest punt of his of equipment on mine and civil An amphibious excavator is a type of life and bought one sites you could think of, buying machine that can perform dredging from overseas. some machines and setting up as a while afloat in shallow water. The Any fears Mick might Coalface loves to see our people back contractor would seem the choice. excavator is adapted for removing have had around getting work themselves and succeed and we can With so much competition out there silty clay, tailings dam work, are disappearing as quickly as the only take our hats off to you for this though it was clearly a risky choice. clearing silted trenches, swampland dates available to hire it. @ The great effort Mick.

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working mining operations up close. Buses leave Albion Park from 9am. Tours are free but bookings need to be made in advance at huntercoalfestival.org.au TOUCH FOOTY COMPETITION - Saturday, April 7 Preceding the Singleton Community Day with an 8.30 am start, touch football teams compete for the Voice for Mining Hunter Coal Festival Cup. Teams of seven to 10 will compete in a round robin tournament with prizes and trophy for the winning team. This is a senior competition but teenagers are welcome to participate. For team or individual nominations IT’S contact Peter on 0427 712 613 or Janelle on 0413 606 424. KURRI COALFACE PEDAL HUNTER COAL FESTIVAL - Sunday, April 8 The Kurri Coalface Pedal offers a THE HUNTER COAL FESTIVAL WILL BE A CELEBRATION OF THE CO-EXISTENCE day of fun and fitness for mountain BETWEEN COMMUNITY AND THE MINING INDUSTRY AND RUNS FROM APRIL 6 – 15. bike enthusiasts while raising funds TIME for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. The bush ride is designed Organised by Singleton Business Matt Canavan and Head of Glencore’s indigenous dance performances, for all levels of cyclists with courses Chamber with support from Global Coal Assets Peter Freyberg. petting zoo, children’s activities ranging from hard to easy. For full Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce SINGLETON COMMUNITY DAY AND and entertainers – including details and registration see www. and Industry, Muswellbrook Shire PARADE - Saturday, April 7 two performances by The Little rescuehelicopterservice.com.au/ Council and Singleton Shire Council, Scallywagz and much more. The events/2018-kurri-coalface-pedal- Preceded by a parade on John events are scheduled to take place in mining industry will also be on show mountain-bike-event Street from 10am, the Singleton Singleton, Muswellbrook, Newcastle with Hunter mining companies Showground will come alive for SINGLETON CHAMBER LUNCH and Kurri Kurri. mounting multiple displays. Entry the festival’s biggest community - Monday, April 9 is free. MINING LEADERS LUNCH event, the Singleton Community The festival gets down to business - Friday, April 6 Day. Packed with family-fun MINE TOURS - Saturday, April 7 with NSW Minerals Council CEO Billed as the “Hunter’s Mining activities, including freestyle Board a bus to one of three local Stephen Galilee presenting a mining Industry Event of the Year, the motorcross, coal shovelling and companies (Glencore, Yancoal and industry update at the Singleton Mining Leaders Lunch at Club touch footy competitions, the NSW Bloomfield Coal/Rix’s Creek) offering Business Chamber Lunch at Singleton Singleton features guest speakers Tug O War championships, mines tours of their mines. This is a rare Diggers. Tickets can be purchased at Federal Resources Minister Senator rescue demonstration, live music, and unique opportunity to see www.stickytickets.com.au/64637

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MUSWELLBROOK CHAMBER REHABILITATION CONFERENCE regulations for BREAKFAST - Tuesday, April 10 - Thursday, April 12 rehabilitation of mined land will The focus on business continues Australia’s mined land shape the future of when NSW Minerals Council Stephen rehabilitation community gathers the Upper Hunter. Galilee provides his industry at the Tom Farrell Institute’s Mine Members of the update to Muswellbrook Chamber Rehab Conference to hear expert community have of Commerce and Industry at speakers who bring the latest an opportunity to Muswellbrook Race Club. Ticket innovations, on ground experience have input and see bookings are through the Chamber at and thought-provoking ideas. The two presentations: [email protected] conference also includes mine Synoptic Plan tours for delegates. To be held at STEM TOURS - Wednesday, April 11 Review Community the Wests New Lambton with a bus Science, Technology, Engineering Update with tour on April 11 and workshops and Maths (STEM) streamed high the Department on April 13. For full details www. school students get a first-hand look of Premier and tomfarrellinstitute.org/ at STEM education at the University Cabinet Hunter mlrc2018.html of Newcastle’s Engineering Faculty. Director Stephen After visiting the university COMMUNITY UPDATES Wills and Dr encounter drool-worthy eats from students visit the Port Waratah - Friday, April 13 David Blackmore of the Division of food trucks, wine and craft beer Coal Services coal loading facility to An ongoing review of the Upper Resources and Geoscience will give from local wineries and breweries. witness STEM learning in action. Hunter Synoptic Plan and new an update on the Rehabilitation All that’s left is to take a seat at one Reform Program. To be held at of the communal tables to enjoy the Muswellbrook Workers Club from 10 twinkle of lights overhead and the am to noon, entry is free but people trendy beats of local bands perform are asked to register through Sticky on stage. Singleton Firelight Festival Tickets will warm up the town from 6pm www.stickytickets.com.au/64786 to 10pm. SINGLETON FIRELIGHT FESTIVAL CHARITY GOLF DAY - Saturday, April 14 - Sunday, April 15 The Singleton Civic Precinct will The Festival swings into its final be transformed into a blistering day at Singleton Golf Course while festival of music, food and fire for raising funds for the Cancer Council. the “Singleton Firelight Festival”. The event is a two-person ambrose The evening event will see the Civic with two shotgun starts at 7.30am Centre lawn come alive with Utopian and at 12.30pm. There will be Fire Dancing, where performers presentations at 1pm and 6pm with will deliver a fiery mix of dance and theatrical tricks. A gathering space great prizes and a charity auction. dedicated to the region’s food and For team or individual nominations wine will also feature on the lawn. contact Les at the pro shop on This will be the epicentre of the 6572 4875. event where the community will www.huntercoalfestival.org.au

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The latest trade data from the exports were 172 Mt with a value of Australian Bureau of Statistics $35.7 billion. indicates the strength of coal Overwhelmingly the destination of NEW RECORD! exports in 2017 which were valued coal exports continues to be Asia, at $56.5 billion, 35 per cent higher spanning from established north than 2016. This is the highest ever COAL EXPORTS HAVE SET AN Asian markets to the fast growing annual value of coal exports – the ALL-TIME RECORD IN 2017 economies of Southeast Asia previous record was $46.7 billion AND THINGS ARE LOOKING and India. in 2011. VERY POSITIVE FOR 2018. In addition to export, revenue coal Coal was Australia’s second largest continues to make a significant export in 2017 behind iron ore, contribution the domestic though historically coal has been economy including providing Australia’s biggest export earner. 75 per cent of generation in the In 2017 thermal coal exports were National Electricity Market, over 200 million tonnes (Mt) worth $20.8 51,000 direct jobs and $5 billion in billion while metallurgical coal royalties annually.

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POST DRAYTON AND POST LOSING HIS JOB, VODKA Every dog has its day Vodka DOWNTURN, WE CAUGHT SAYS HE IS NOT REALLY and we hope you and Lucky UP WITH HIM AND HE HAS MISSING MINING. have plenty of good ones to GONE FROM HUNTER COAL come. Best of luck and it’s your Vodka passionately talked to TO HUNTING DOGS. shout for a couple of XXXX’s us about how the drought is next time you come to town. “Locally, and pretty much making things worse as more across most other rural dogs have come out from communities, wild dogs higher country due to lack of are a big problem that is water and feed in locations ‘AVE A only getting bigger. Some which is making the packs LAUGH WITH of the damage, death and roam further and wider. Make injuries to livestock can be no bones about it, killing dogs heartbreaking. There are a is a confronting business, but lot of dogs out there despite Vodka stressed there is a right baiting programs. Mine sites and a wrong way to do it. PH 02 6571 2983 along with national parks and farming land are all prime “Obviously we are killing Bubba & Earl were in the locations for them to breed. feral animals but we are very local pub enjoying a beer While baiting is important careful to do it humanely. when the decided to get in and useful, these are cunning The traps we use are specially designed with rubber jaws on the weekly raffle and animals and the older dogs are buy a ticket each. known to teach the younger and offset to hold the dogs dogs to avoid them. In my while not being overly cruel. When the raffle was time mining we always had They are checked daily and drawn, each had won a prize. Earl won 1st prize, a dogs coming through. I had putting them to sleep is done year’s supply of gourmet been in the mines operating as efficiently as possible to spaghetti sauce and extra- dozers, graders and trucks minimize distress to the long spaghetti. Bubba won since 1996. In underground animal. The courses I have 6th prize, a toilet brush. and in open cut, the last time done teach best practice and being at Drayton where I was I hope to grow the business About a week or so had DOG WATCH retrenched along with the combining my mining passed when the men met EVERY TIME I RUN INTO VODKA DRYER HE RUNS INTO ABOUT rest of the workforce. I’ve experience to be one of the best back in the pub. Bubba TEN OTHER PEOPLE WHO KNOW HIM. HE’S A WELL-KNOWN been trapping dogs now for in the business,” stated Vodka. asked Earl how he liked CHARACTER FROM THE MINING INDUSTRY AND LOCAL about three and a half years his prize, to which Earl The mutt you can see in the COMMUNITY. THE ONLY ONES WHO DON’T LIKE TO RUNNING and that’s my job now. Just replied, “Great, I love picture is called Lucky…”Lucky INTO HIM ARE THE LOCAL WILD DOGS! at Carabbe, I have caught 13 spaghetti! How about you, to be alive!” laughed Vodka. dogs in the last five weeks,” how’s that toilet brush?” Well known for starting the on the corner of Edderton road She is 50% Dingo and Alsatian said Vodka. “Not so good,” replied powerful yet peaceful ‘Shirts during the Drayton South open as far as we can ascertain. She Bubba, “I reckon I’m gonna on the fence’ ‘You took my job cut campaign, Vodka is from DESPITE THE INITIAL went from target to part of go back to paper.” you can have my shirt’ protest up near Widden these days. DISTRESS AND UPHEAVAL the family.”

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THE HYPE ABOUT HYDROGEN PRODUCE HYDROGEN FOR THE AS WE MOVE INTO A LOW TRANSPORTATION SECTOR EMISSIONS FUTURE, COAL COULD REDUCE OUR ENERGY COULD STILL PLAY A VERY USE AND OUR RELIANCE WHO WILL TAKE HOME THE TITLE? IMPORTANT ROLE. ON IMPORTED PETROLEUM. THE NSW MINING INDUSTRY AND SUPPLIERS AWARDS WHEN HYDROGEN IS USED FINALISTS HAVE BEEN ANNOUNCED WITH SOME VERY IN EFFICIENT FUEL CELL Coal is a complex and highly DESERVING CONTENDERS THIS YEAR. variable substance that can VEHICLES, EMISSIONS FROM THE be converted into a variety of TRANSPORTATION SECTOR CAN products, one of them being BE NEARLY ELIMINATED. Showcasing the best of the NSW Alkane Resources - hydrogen. Hydrogen is produced Right here in Australia we are mining industry, the NSW Mining Tomingley Gold Operations by first reacting coal with oxygen already seeing plans to convert our and steam under high pressures Victorian brown coal into liquid Industry and Supplier Awards OUTSTANDING and temperatures to form hydrogen for export. The Victoria recognise excellence within our CONTRIBUTION TO MINING synthesis gas, a mixture consisting government is working with world class mining industry and Margaret MacDonald-Hill - primarily of carbon monoxide Kawasaki Heavy Industries on a mining supply chain. Velvet Glove Communications and hydrogen. proposed plant which will produce “Our Industry and Suppliers’ Awards Rob Cunningham - The production of hydrogen from liquid hydrogen to export to Japan are an opportunity to acknowledge CMOC-Northparkes Mines to be used in hydrogen powered coal also offers environmental the important role mining plays in OUTSTANDING SUPPLIER benefits when integrated with vehicles. Maritime authorities NSW, particularly our economic AMPcontrol advanced technologies in coal from Australia and Japan have contribution. Our world class mining gasification, power production, signed a world-first deal to ship industry provides jobs for tens of EMS Group Pty Ltd the hydrogen. and carbon capture utilisation thousands of families and injects Quarry Mining & Construction and storage. This is one of just many coal based valuable economic activity and Equipment Pty Ltd hydrogen projects underway and it AUSTRALIA HAS AN ABUNDANT, spending into mining communities YOUNG ACHIEVER DOMESTIC RESOURCE IN will be interesting to see what’s in right across NSW.” NSW Minerals Steven Fordham - COAL. THE USE OF COAL TO store for the future. Council CEO Stephen Galilee said. Blackrock Industries Pty Ltd The finalists for 2018 NSW Robyn Teet - Mining Industry and Supplier CMOC Northparkes Mines Awards include: Ben Hockey - PJL Group MINING OPERATION OF THE YEAR The awards night is held on March Centennial Coal - 15 and we are looking forward to Myuna Herringbone System bringing you the results next month.

“Future opportunities and growth make the nation’s mining industry an exciting place to forge a career. Essential to making the future possible is embracing new technology and innovation, such as using drones to survey mine sites.”

18 MARCH - APRIL 2018 | @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE @ THE COALFACE WIN! THE MEGA MONTHLY MEAT RAFFLE WORTH $150 COMPLIMENTS OF The Hunters best butcher of hand-picked meaty goodness! FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, SIMPLY SMS: THE MEAT MASTER AND YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS TO 0438 474 290. PARALLEL ECONOMICS Limit of one entry per GET A person. LTPM/17/02507 ROCKET UP YA! LETS GET A PRIVATE HUNTER VALLEY ‘SPACE BASE’ BUILT IN THE HUNTER. WAIT, WAIT! WE HAVEN’T LOST OUR MARBLES, THE EFFORTS, ACHIEVEMENTS AND SUCCESS OF ELON MUSK WITH SPACEX AND RICHARD BRANSON WITH VIRGIN GALACTIC PROVE IT’S FAR FROM A FUTURISTIC DREAM.

Both Mr Musk and Mr SENSE. MANY PEOPLE The land is already there Branson are well-proven ALREADY WHINGE on buffer sites and current and successful major THAN IT RESEMBLES A surrounding exclusion investors in the future and zones may well already MOONSCAPE ANYWAY. potential of Australia. To be sufficient enough to put it simply, they love this Add our considerable accommodate. Let’s see place and of all the places local Airforce and Army if the mining industry is that occupy space in their infrastructure into the prepared to donate some brains, Australia is right up mix and it is fair to assume to get the idea going. That near the top of the list. Tesla battery thing in South we also already have Australia became a reality MUSK AND BRANSON ARE considerable supporting after just a couple of Twitter LEADING THE WORLD IN hi tech infrastructure and mentions and conversations PRIVATELY OWNED SPACE intelligence locally. and was developed at COMPANIES. BUILDING lightening speed. A PRIVATE ENTERPRISE A SMALL STEP FOR MAN, A SPACE STATION ON MINE GIANT LEAP FOR MANKIND Anyone out there got Elon or LAND COULD MAKE IN THE HUNTER. Richard’s mobile number?

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What was it like working back then? What’s a funny story from work Totally different from today. In 1953 that you can tell? So many stories! In it was a transition between contract those days everyone had a laugh with mining and the mechanisation of the each other and it was all in good fun. PAT QUINN industry. Electricity was basic. The I remember when the shotfirer was industry was recovering from the looking for a new assistant and they A COAL MINER FOR HIS WHOLE WORKING LIFE, NOW LOCAL HISTORIAN, great coal strike of 49’ so it was very asked one chap. They told him the only NOT TO MENTION CITIZEN OF THE YEAR NOMINEE, PAT QUINN IS PROOF political and unionised. The work was downside is if you touch the explosives THAT THE HARD WORK DOESN’T END WITH RETIREMENT. hands on, you walked down the pit and and then touch your forehead you out of the pit. You would never see a fat are going to get a headache. And he coal miner back in those days because said well that doesn’t worry me, I’ve of the laborious work. And because always got a headache. Yeah, he was your crib tin wasn’t big enough for MY MINING LIFE known to enjoy a drop and always much more than a sandwich! had a ‘headache’. In those days you How big was a crew? A coal cutter all caught the bus to work because no crew would have three who cut the one had cars and he was just one of the coal and drilled the face. Then there many blokes who would get picked up was a shotfirer and his assistant, plus a from the Clubhouse Hotel and dropped loader who put the coal on the shuttle back off there. car and then onto the conveyor belt. There was also two who were called How different is your job to what you second class shiftmen who did stuff wanted to do when you were a kid? like putting up brattice and moving I wanted to be a teacher, but my fans. The team was extremely close, if parents said to get a trade. I knew you didn’t work together, it wouldn’t the state mine was looking for an work. Our workforce was mainly apprentice carpenter, but I wasn’t keen locals, and we socialised together on that so instead I found out who the outside of work. My days underground engineer was and rode to his house are the ones I remember the most on my bike. I hear you are looking for fondly and that I’ve kept the most an apprentice engineer I said to him mates from. which he replied no we aren’t. But What’s the best thing about your then he said let me think about it and a career? Mateship. The friends that couple of days later he shows up at my I made, who will remain so for our door and says your hired. whole lives. Also, all the opportunities What do you do now? I’ve been I was given I’m so grateful for. retired for 24 years and have done a Opportunities to further studies and to lot of travelling overseas and around travel overseas and around Australia Australia with my wife Ann. I also am to keep up with the mining technology. a keen golfer. I did consultancy work Looking back, I was so glad to see for 5 years but then quit that when I safety practices improve over the had a heart attack. Now, I’m a member years. When I started not even boots of the Singleton Historical Society were compulsory! No one knew first and member of the local Probus club, aid and there was no such thing as an which involves organising trips, guest induction. Such different days. speaking, researching and history The worst thing? The strikes. Not tours. Being retired means I’m busy 8 long after my wife and I got married days a week! there was a 3-month strike and we were desperate. From that I Who are you and what do you do? end, we decided they were good places learnt and have taught I’m Pat Quinn and I’m a retired miner to go for a holiday, but Singleton would always be our home. my children that you and proud member of the Singleton always put something Historical Society and the local When did you start? I started at away for a rainy day. Probus Club. Liddell State Coal mine as apprentice The pay wasn’t great Any nicknames good or bad? Quinny, electrical fitter just a few days after either, I used to get my 16th birthday. Later it became Trev, PT. The rest I can’t mention! $4.25 a week, our Cummock Colliery and I was there for apprenticeship was Where do you live and how long 18 years. In 1971 there was a fire at the five years and the you been in the Valley? I came to mine and it was closed. I initially went study for TAFE you did Singleton in 1948 at the age of 10. to Liddell Colliery and then to Hebden at your own expense. After I retired, my wife Ann and I Opencut. I stayed at Hebden for 9 years But you knew it would travelled up and down the east coast to and then went on to Mt Thorley until I pay off in the end. see what they had to offer, but in the retired after 41 years in the industry.

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‘AVE A LAUGH WITH PH 02 6571 2983 A mother and her young son were flying Qantas when the son turns to his mother and asked, “If big dogs have baby dogs and big cats have baby cats, why don’t big planes have baby planes?” The mother said, “Well, maybe that’s something you could ask the stewardess.” So, the boy asked the stewardess the same question. The stewardess responded, “Did your mother tell you to ask me?” The boy admitted that this was the case. “Well, then, tell your mother that there are no baby planes because Qantas always pulls out on time. You can ask your mother to explain it to you.”

cordon of Japanese guards A MONUMENT TO THE who erected electric fences DEAD WHICH GAVE THE to keep them out. Once the NUMBER OF DEAD TO BE fire was out and the mine 1,327. THE TRUE NUMBER IS A COALTASTROPHE re-opened, it took 10 days BELIEVED TO BE 1,549, 34% AUSTRALIA ARE WORLD LEADERS IN MINING SAFETY, BUT WE’VE SUFFERED to remove all the corpses OF THE MINERS WORKING DISASTERS IN THE PAST. THE WORST WAS THE MT KEMBLA COAL MINING DISASTER and rubble from the shaft. THAT DAY, MAKING IT THE IN 1902 WHICH CLAIMED 96 LIVES. IN COMPARISON, CHINA IS HOME TO THE WORST The dead were buried in a WORST DISASTER IN THE COAL MINING DISASTER IN HISTORY. THE BENXIHU COLLIERY DISASTER OF 1942 mass grave nearby. Many HISTORY OF COAL MINING. WHERE 1,549 MINERS DIED. victims could not be properly The mine continued to be identified due to the extent operated by the Japanese of the burns. The tragedy occurred on 26 it more of a prison camp THE VENTILATION AND until the end of World War April 1942 in the Honkeiko than a coal mine, and many SEALED THE PIT HEAD Of those killed, 1,518 were II in 1945. After the Japanese coal mine, located near Benxi described the work as WITHOUT WAITING Chinese, and 31 were withdrew, the workers in the Liaoning province slave labour. FOR AN EVACUATION. Japanese. The Japanese at took control of the site and of China. The Japanese had ON THAT FATEFUL DAY THIS REPORTEDLY LEFT first reported the death toll to allowed the Soviet Union invaded the area in the 1930s A GAS AND COAL DUST WORKERS STILL ALIVE be just 34. Initial newspaper to investigate the accident. during the Sino-Japanese EXPLOSION IN THE MINE WITHIN THE SEALED-OFF reports were minimal and Their report revealed that War and had taken over SENT FLAMES BURSTING AREA OF THE MINE TO downplayed the size of the the majority of the fatalities the mine. The Japanese OUT OF THE MINE SHAFT EVENTUALLY SUFFOCATE disaster as a minor event. were not caused by the forced Chinese labourers, ENTRANCE. IN AN ATTEMPT IN THE SMOKE. Eventually what really initial explosion and fire, but some of whom had been TO CURTAIL THE FIRE Miners’ relatives rushed to occurred began to leak out. instead were the result of captured from local military UNDERGROUND, THE the site after the explosion AFTERWARDS THE secondary carbon monoxide organisations, to work JAPANESE SHUT OFF but were denied entry by a JAPANESE ERECTED poisoning and suffocation. in the mine. Conditions were deplorable, food was scarce, clothing nothing but tattered rags and shoes were so flimsy they wore out within a week. Diseases such as typhoid and cholera were rampant due to the terrible conditions and poor health of the workers. The Japanese overseers were harsh disciplinarians, often using violence to force miners to their shafts. The mine was surrounded by a guarded perimeter making

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@ THE COALFACE | MARCH - APRIL 2018 21 COMMUNITY @ THE COALFACE

BLOOMFIELD CELEBRATING WITH THE CANCER COUNCIL TEAM time. We like how the organisation puts services on the ground so that people in need have a practical local application.” “We’re also mindful of the research Cancer Council NSW puts into cancer prevention and support. That’s why we’ve been helping the Cancer Council NSW office in Singleton through direct donations, golf days, and participation in the Relay for Life. Our support also extends to providing rental assistance, making it easier for the local Cancer Council NSW staff to focus on helping people in need.” “OUR CORPORATE VIEWPOINT IS THAT THE CANCER COUNCIL NSW SINGLETON OFFICE IS A KEY PART OF THE SINGLETON COMMUNITY AND SO MANY PEOPLE ARE BETTER OFF WITH THE CANCER COUNCIL IN TOWN. THIS IS A GOOD WAY FOR US TO GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY.” Glen Parsons, Community Programs Coordinator for the Cancer Council NSW Singleton office says the organisation relies heavily on support from companies such as Bloomfield. “People don’t seem to realise that without the mining industry so many things probably wouldn’t happen,” Glen said. “We’re 96 percent community funded which means we would not THE CANCER COUNCIL NSW RECENTLY CELEBRATED THE 5TH BIRTHDAY OF THEIR SINGLETON OFFICE AND exist without community support. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! It’s important to us that people USED THE OCCASION TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE ORGANISATIONS LOCAL SUCCESS SO FAR. AMONG THOSE ATTENDING WERE REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE BLOOMFIELD GROUP. realise what lengths The Bloomfield Group goes to to help us. This strong partnership between The Cancer The Bloomfield Group has provided Council team to provide essential Richards told us “We have been an Council NSW and The Bloomfield significant financial backing for services to the Singleton community. active and passionate supporter of Group has been enormously the office, enabling the local Cancer The Bloomfield Group Chairman John The Cancer Council NSW for a long beneficial to our local community.” TRANSPORT FOR TREATMENT YANCOAL HAS DONATED $10,000 TO THE SINGLETON CANCER COUNCIL’S attending appointments as they program is a huge asset for the TRANSPORT FOR TREATMENT PROGRAM, WHICH PROVIDES AN were unable to drive themselves, local community.” Glen said. ESSENTIAL NEED TO THE SINGLETON COMMUNITY. or there was no public transport Andrew Speechley of Yancoal available. Many people are Mount Thorley Warkworth and Glen Parsons, Community said, “We’ve been supporting the unwilling to ask for help from cancer council in Singleton for Hunter Valley Operations have Programs Coordinator for the friends or family as they are so a number of years now through been sponsoring this vital program Cancer Council says that the used to taking care of themselves. the relay for life and the patient since it was established, working program makes a huge difference in partnership with Ourcare. The We approached Coal & Allied with transfer program. This partnership for cancer patients and their program last year saw 372 cancer the idea for the program and they is really special to us. It means a lot families who are struggling in patients from the Singleton immediately got on board. We are to us and our employees and it’s a area receive much needed difficult circumstances. so grateful to them, and to see program we want to keep showing free transportation. “We found that people were not Yancoal continuing to support the support to.”

SICK OF THE UNCERTAINTY MAXIMUM TERM CONTRACT ROLES OF BEING CASUAL? YOU WILL RECEIVE: WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR: REFER A FRIEND TO • 6 weeks paid annual leave Successful applicants will have: RECEIVE $200 • A minimum 12 consecutive months • 105 hours paid sick leave How to claim your reward: experience on a CAT 785, Komatsu • 4/5/5 roster working on 12.5 hour shifts 1. Contact your friend for 830E or equivalent • 12 month maximum term contract consent to share details. • A positive attitude and proactive 2. Send their full name, contact PAY RATES safety focus The flat pay rate for all rostered shifts for number and email address • Must live or be willing to relocate within to workforcehuntervalley@ 12.5 hr employees on max term contracts 60 minutes of Muswellbrook will be $42.69. chandlermacleod.com Please call Chandler Macleod’s APPLICATION PROCESS 3. Recive reward upon Singleton Office on 02 6572 5915 for successful commencement Please send the following documentation more information. of referred person. to workforcehuntervalley@ chandlermacleod.com • Resume with two current referees • Letter or Certificate of Competency • Order 41 Coal Board Medical if completed in the last 12 months

22 MARCH - APRIL 2018 | @ THE COALFACE COMMUNITY @ THE COALFACE COMMUNITY @ THE COALFACE COMMUNITY GIFT RURAL RELIEF

IT’S NO SECRET THAT THAT PEOPLE ON THE LAND HAVE BEEN DOING IT VERY TOUGH LATELY.

This month Complete recent storms delivered who could use a leg up Parts and @ The a painful beating. with a few supplies. Coalface with the help Kirkwood’s see customers It might not solve all the of Kirkwood’s Produce everyday who are problems but we hope it will lend a hand on struggling more than helps a bit. Farmers are the land with $500 of others so we have asked as important as miners emergency supplies. them to discreetly pay it around here and Complete The drought has slowly forward and pick up the Parts want them to know taken a heavy toll and tab for one or two farmers we are thinking of them.

the numbers to compete in the Team Challenge, MINES TEAM CHALLENGE! but we have an entry in FOR THE FIRST TIME THE KURRI COAL FACE PEDAL the solo 60km. Make sure MOUNTAIN BIKE EVENT IS RUNNING A MINES TEAM you say hello when you CHALLENGE AND ALREADY THE COMPETITION IS overtake them! HEATING UP. For those that aren’t up for the 60km, there’s still Held on April 8 at Pelaw crossing the line first. the shorter course options along with the family ride Main, this year’s mountain Already signed up for the and schools challenge. bike event will be holding chance to take home the the inaugural Mines Team trophy are Comm Steel, Online entries close Challenge. Teams of three Quarry Mining, Morgan on April 4, but late will be tackling the 60km Engineering, AMP Control, registrations will be taken course with the winner Orica and Austar Coal on the day. being the team with all Mine. Unfortunately, @ www.rescuehelicopter. three team members The Coalface doesn’t have com.au

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@ THE COALFACE | MARCH - APRIL 2018 23 COMMUNITY @ THE COALFACE

DERBY DAY GRESFORD’S BILLY CART DERBY AND EASTER FAIR IS ON SATURDAY MARCH 31 AND GLENCORE’S RAVENSWORTH OPENCUT WILL AGAIN BE COMPETING TO TAKE HOME THE TROPHY.

Ravensworth Opencut are not “There was some contention last only the major sponsors of this year about the winner, and this great family event, but they have year the rivalry has definitely also entered a team into the Derby stepped it up a notch. But I’m and they are not alone. backing our Bob the Billy Cart This year the battle of the all the way.” Laura went on to mines is back on with Mt Owen say that rivalry aside, the race Complex, Liddell Coal Operations, was all about working together, Ravensworth CHPP and having fun and supporting a Ravensworth Opencut all vying great community event. “We’d for the prestigious trophy. love to see even more people there Whether it’s modifying last year’s this year, especially those in the Billy cart, or building a new mining industry.” cart from scratch, each mine is Be sure to head out to Gresford hard at work to make theirs the on Easter Saturday and check fastest, so they can take home the out all the action. There will be trophy, and more importantly the local stalls, jumping castles, bragging rights. cowpat lotto, gumboot throwing SPECIALISING competition, performances and Laura Barben, Ravensworth Opencut’s Environment and live music, not to mention all IN ROTARY BLASTHOLE Community Coordinator says the the fabulous food, guaranteeing pressure is on for them, especially an amazing day out for the DRILLING RIGS as they are the event sponsors. whole family.

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24 MARCH - APRIL 2018 | @ THE COALFACE Singleton, Muswellbrook & Newcastle

April 6-15, 2018

Friday, April 6 Monday, April 9 Thursday, April 12 Mining Leaders Lunch NSW Mining Update: Singleton Tom Farrell Institute Mine - Club Singleton Business Chamber Lunch Rehabilitation Conference - Diggers Singleton - Wests, New Lambton Saturday, April 7 Friday, April 13 Hunter Coal Festival Parade Tuesday, April 10 - John Street Singleton Synoptic Plan and Rehabilitation NSW Mining Update: Muswellbrook Regulations Community Update Chamber of Commerce and Industry - Muswellbrook Workers Club Singleton Community Day, family fun Breakfast day, mine tours and more - Muswellbrook Race Club Saturday, April 14 - Singleton Showground Singleton Firelight Festival - Singleton Civic Centre Lawns Sunday, April 8 Wednesday, April 11 Kurri Coalface Pedal Mountain STEM Student Tours Sunday, April 15 Bike Charity Ride - University of Newcastle and Port Cancer Council Charity Golf Day - Pelaw Main/Kurri Kurri Waratah Coal Services - Singleton Golf Club

For information visit www.huntercoalfestival.org.au ,000 ,000

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TARGETED TRAINING NSW MINES RESCUE WILL BE THE FIRST TO DELIVER NEW ‘FIT FOR PURPOSE’ TRAINING FOR THE MINING INDUSTRY’S FRONTLINE TRAINERS AND ASSESSORS.

In the past there has been debate by Training Services Australia, over the suitability of Training offers a consolidated program that and Assessment qualifications focuses on the learning needs of and their ‘fit for purpose’ in workplace trainers and assessors. the mining industry. In our Matthew Fellowes, General industry, frontline trainers Manager Mines Rescue and and assessors are tasked with ARE YOU A Regulation & Compliance delivering company or site- said that the course will specific subjects or competencies specifically support frontline WORKPLACE ASSESSOR? in addition to their regular trainers and assessors to train roles. They are not required to workplace skills to meet internal meet the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) industry organisational requirements. criteria for delivering nationally “We consulted with the mining recognised qualifications. industry about what they needed Mines Rescue have commenced for their trainers and assessors, the delivery of a new nationally and what would work best. We accredited course called ‘Course found that our customers were in Field-Based Training and mainly interested in just a small Assessment – 10235NAT’ targeted component of the Certificate IV at those who deliver in-house Training and Assessment course. non-accredited workplace The decision to move away from training and assessment. The the full course was driven by the new course is comprised of one need for a more targeted solution, core unit focused on assessment, which we are now able to provide, and one elective unit focused on thanks to Training Services training. This course, developed Australia,” Matt explained.

WPTASS001 CARRY OUT WPTASS001 CARRY OUT WORKPLACE ASSESSMENTS WORKPLACE ASSESSMENTS For frontline assessors conducting For frontline assessors conducting workplace assessments workplace assessments Two day course includes: • Planning assessments • Organising assessments • Conducting assessments following established assessment processes and using pre-developed assessment NEW TOOLS tools THE NSW RESOURCES REGULATOR IS ROLLING OUT NEW TOOLS ACROSS THE STATE TO ENSURE THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF MINE WORKERS. For bookings or information contact: Minister for Resources Don Harwin New tools and resources has announced that they will being made available for the conduct workshops across NSW to industry include: Hunter Valley Newcastle help operators manage health risks • educational videos on identifying in the workplace. and controlling health risks Mines Rescue Mines Rescue “Protecting our workers is a • a health control plan guide responsibility this Government • tools that provide guidance takes extremely seriously,” (02) 6573 9000 (02) 4922 4400 on identifying, assessing and Mr Harwin said. “NSW has a controlling health hazards comprehensive regulatory scheme www.coalservices.com.au in place to protect workers in the • resources that provide www.coalservices.com.au mining industry and we expect it information about specific to be followed at all times. health hazards “A key requirement for mine • fact sheets This unit forms part of the nationally accredited course in Field-Based operators is to develop health In addition to these new tools, Training and Assessment (10235NAT) and is NSW Coal Industry Order control plans and undertake the regulator will host a series 34 compliant. Mines Rescue is licensed to deliver this course by the health monitoring of their of workshops tailored to workers, and the NSW Resources various mines, both large and course owner, Training Services Australia (RTO 1984). Regular has developed a suite of small, to ensure their health control plans meet current Mines Rescue Pty Limited (RTO ID 90508) ABN: 15 099 078 261 Mines Rescue Pty Limited (RTO ID 90508) ABN: 15 099 078 261 new tools to help operators meet these requirements.” legislative requirements.

26 MARCH - APRIL 2018 | @ THE COALFACE HEALTH @ THE COALFACE

BEING SPENT IN FRONT OF • Turn all notifications off A COMPUTER, PHONE OR TV, your apps. Choose a specific WHICH EQUATES TO ABOUT time each day to check 143 DAYS EVERY YEAR. on your apps and restrict But what does it all this time yourself to a timeframe. immersed in our devices • Out of sight out of mind. mean for our physical and Most people automatically mentally wellbeing? reach for their phone when they see it and began Results from some of the flicking through apps or studies that have been done are worrying. Social checking messages. media appears to promote • Turn your data off. If you narcissism, smartphones are always checking your could be causing insomnia, social media feed while and screens seem to be waiting for your lunch making our kids less order or walking down the empathetic. Not to mention street, turn off your data so other tolls such as poor you can’t. DIGITAL • Leave your phone in your concentration and posture, sore eyes, depression, anxiety pocket or your bag when and feeling isolated. you are at meetings or at Maybe it’s time to take a work. Put it on airplane break. There are digital mode unless you really DETOX detox retreats for those need to be available. Aussie blokes where the who wish to completely • Take email off your phone. WHAT’S THE FIRST THING YOU DO WHEN YOU WAKE worst culprits with 74 per unplug, but family and work Only use email from your UP? CHECK YOUR EMAILS? LOOK THROUGH SOCIAL cent admitting to having commitments make these computer and only at MEDIA? PLAY A GAME? IF YOU’RE REACHING FOR their phone at hand an unrealistic option for specific time of the day. YOUR PHONE BEFORE YOU’VE EVEN RUBBED THE throughout the entire day, most of us. Instead we’ve • Don’t take your phone with SLEEP OUT OF YOUR EYES IT MIGHT BE TIME TO compared to only 60 per cent put together some of the top you into the bathroom, the CONSIDER A DIGITAL DETOX. of females. And it seems advice out there to help you bedroom or the kitchen. there is no part of our lives stop being a glow face. Choose one spot in the where phones have not What is a digital detox? In Australia, 84% of us have • Only use your phone when house where you use your intruded, 1 in 10 Australians It’s defined as a period of smartphones, and on average you’re alone. When you are phone, so it stops intruding time during which a person we check them 150 times a also admitting to using their with people focus on them on all aspects of your refrains from using electronic day. One study found that the phones while having sex! and not on your phone. home life. devices such as smartphones average Australian spends WHEN IT COMES TO If your out for dinner • Buy an alarm clock. Don’t or computers and is 2.5 hours every day on their ELECTRONIC DEVICES IN with friends, try putting use the excuse of needing regarded as an opportunity phones, which might not GENERAL, THE RESULTS everyone’s phones together the alarm to take your to reduce stress or focus sound like much until you ARE EVEN MORE SHOCKING. on the table. First one who phone to bed. Choose a time on social interaction in the consider that it totals to 38 MORE THAN ONE-THIRD OF picks their phone up pays at night such as 6pm and physical world. days a year! EACH DAY – 9.4 HOURS – IS for dinner! put your phone away.

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@ THE COALFACE | MARCH - APRIL 2018 27 GOOD STUFF @ THE COALFACE

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Malabar Coal has developed a radically different proposal How is Malabar’s proposal for EL5460, previously known as Drayton South. This different from past proposals? new underground proposal has been designed to address community and stakeholder concerns about 1. Malabar will only mine underground. past proposals and minimise any possible impacts on our No need for blasting, with no dust and neighbours. noise related impacts or impact on equine health or nearby properties. Mining We understand that, if a coal mine is to be successful, operations will be invisible to the horse it must coexist with local industries and gain its social studs addressing any impact to the licence from the community. reputation or operations of the horse studs. Malabar’s plan will use the existing processing, handling 2. The portion of EL 5460 beneath and rail infrastructure at the Drayton Mine for the any and south of the has future project, so that there are no new impacts for our been relinquished. neighbours. This includes the land beneath the Godolphin and Coolmore horse studs and Benefits of the underground only project include about Golden Highway. 350 new direct, long term jobs for the region and many more indirect jobs. 3. Better rehabilitation outcomes Malabar will deliver a far more visually Malabar’s proposal will also generate significant economic appealing final outcome at the existing and social benefits for the local area, for NSW more Drayton Mine-site by using reject stone broadly and for the national economy. The project will and rock from the underground mine provide ongoing support for local businesses and, over at Spur Hill or an underground mine at the 30 years of this project, provide $1.7 billion of royalties EL 5460 to fill the legacy voids at the to the State. Drayton Mine.

BRINGING JOBS AND INVESTMENT TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY SPORT @ THE COALFACE EVEN WHEN IT’S GREY, NEWY SHINES AT I ALWAYS HAVE A GOOD TIME IN NEWCASTLE.” Hawaiian crowd favourite and 2011 Surfest Champion, (HAW) took out the Grandstand Sports Clinic Women’s Pro in a hard- fought final over Mikey’s Coco Ho said, with infectious smile sister and reigning two-time World post-win. “I am super stoked to think Champion Tyler Wright (AUS). I can come back seven years later and still win. It means a lot to me “It was definitely anybody’s day, but and proves that I am still capable of I was super energised and stoked and NEWCASTLE’S MEREWEATHER BEACH SHOWS OFF ITS victories.” CREDENTIALS TO THE WORLD, AGAIN! I think that always helps you win,”

It was fireworks at Surfest on the Mikey Wright now leads the Men’s WIN! final day of the Burton Automotive QS rankings and couldn’t have Pro and the Grandstand Sports Clinic started the year more perfectly as he Women’s Pro. Despite the overcast looks towards qualifying for the 2019 THE SHOUT’S ON US! WIN A CASE OF XXXX GOLD conditions the surfers still managed Championship Tour and join siblings TO CELEBRATE THE GOOD TIMES to shine with an incredible display Owen and Tyler on the elite ‘Dream THANKS TO THE CLUBHOUSE. of quality surfing action. Brother Tour’. and sister, Mikey and Tyler Wright For your chance to win, simply SMS: “I’M FEELING REALLY GOOD made history as the first siblings to CHEERS SOL and your email ABOUT THIS YEAR AND I REALLY surf in dual finals of a World Surf address to 0438 474 290. WANT TO QUALIFY, AND THIS League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) Limit of one entry per person. EVENT COULDN’T HAVE GONE event. Mikey eventually added his LTPM/16/01100 ANY BETTER FOR ME,” SAID MIKEY name to the winner’s list alongside WRIGHT. “NEWCASTLE HAS BEEN older sister Kirby, who saw success GOOD TO ME; MY CLUB WON in Newcastle in 2010. Tyler came just SPORT @ THE COALFACE IS BROUGHT TO THE BOARDRIDERS BATTLE LAST short to Hawaii’s Coco Ho who took YOU BY THE CLUBBY AND LOCAL LIQUOR WEEKEND AND THEN I WON HERE. her second Surfest title.

30 MARCH - APRIL 2018 | @ THE COALFACE SPORT @ THE COALFACE SPORT @ THE COALFACE

WIN! STRAIGHT SHOOTIN’ Repairs in Singleton. Basically, we specialise in DAN REPACHOLI, AKA MINER DAN, IS A STRAIGHT SHOOTIN’ SON OF A GUN WHO HAS WON TWO boiler making, fitting, line boring, labour hire GOLD AND TWO BRONZE MEDALS AT THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES IN DEHLI AND GLASGOW. and machine rebuilds. The mining industry is a COME APRIL, REPACHOLI WILL BE HOPING TO SHOOT STRAIGHT ON HOME TURF AT THE GOLD great industry to be a part of. COAST COMMONWEALTH GAMES. @ THE COALFACE SAT DOWN FOR A SPORTS CHAT WITH THE It is. We love writing about people like you HUNTER’S OWN, MINER DAN… who do great things inside and outside the mining community. Speaking of, how do G’day, Dan. Thanks for taking some time out in my case, it’s not really about shooting. I’ll you balance work with training and other between training and working to have a chat. find myself thinking of just about anything, commitments, like family? So, how did you get into shooting? from what I had for breakfast that morning to Yeah, thanks. I mean, sometimes it’s a struggle what are the blokes at work doing. Haha. Mostly No worries. Yeah, I started shooting back in 1994 getting the balance right, but, like everyone I though, I just need to steady my thoughts and when I was 12. Both my parents and my older just try to do the best I can. I’m very lucky to concentrate on hitting the target. brother were already involved in the sport and, have such an incredibly supportive wife and I suppose at the time, it just seemed like a fun a Point straight ahead and shoot, eh!? Sounds family. They are all very encouraging towards thing to do. like a metaphor for life! Do you have any me and they all want to see me reach and advice for young sports men and women who For sure. What is it about shooting that achieve my sporting goals. motivates you to compete? might dream of competing at such a high level, like the upcoming Commonwealth Games? Family support is definitely important. For Well, I shoot because I want to be the best sure. What are you most looking forward to I think you should never be afraid to dream, in my sport. I’ve competed for Australia for about competing at this year’s Commonwealth because I know from experience that dreams over 20 years. Some days you shoot straight Games on the Gold Coast? and everything goes to plan and other days it can eventually turn into reality. You have to be doesn’t, but, no matter what, it’s always a great prepared to work hard and listen to what your I just want to train and prepare the best I can honour to represent your country and maybe coaches are telling you. They can help you make so that I can perform to the best of my ability. even have a win, sometimes. those dreams real. Shoot straight and walk away happy with my result, no matter what. When you’re competing at the Olympics or You’ve worked in the mining industry for a Commonwealth Games, what do you tend to while now. Where do you work and what do Well, good luck, mate. The whole Hunter think about as you’re about to make a shot? you do? Valley mining community is right behind you, Ha… You would be amazed at what goes through Well, I used to work for Rio Tinto at Mount cheering you on! any shooters head, let alone mine, while Thorley Warkworth, but I finished working there Watch Dan Repacholi represent Australia at the standing there for an hour and a half shooting about 6 months ago. Now I manage a great team Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in April. Good alongside the best of the best. Strangely enough, of dedicated professionals at RR Equipment luck, Dan!

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@ THE COALFACE | MARCH - APRIL 2018 31 DRIVING @ THE COALFACE

and make us really appreciate escaping the heat floating Narrabri had us home in the the warm cuppa’ in Scone. around the river. We enjoy late afternoon. We scooted up the New the tucker at the pub again Thanks to the Gully pub and England to Quirindi then that evening and sensibly it’s hospitable locals for a darted across to the Newell retired for an early night great weekend. Hwy and continued through before the 700km run Also, a special thanks Gunnedah and up to Moree. home tomorrow. Shooting over the border at to the empathetic and Mungindi, we followed the The boys and I were up at compassionate NSW Carnarvon Hwy for the rest of sparrows and broke camp Highway Patrol officers, the journey to the pub. early to beat some of the west of the range. We love your work. AFTER ARRIVING Outback heat. A couple of MIDAFTERNOON, WE fuel stops and a gut full Cheers PICKED OUT A RED-HOT of the Colonel’s finest in Dan - TA SPOT TO SET CAMP JUST BEHIND THE PUB ON THE MOONIE RIVER. THE CAMPING IS FREE, AND THE PUB HAS HOT WATER SHOWERS TO FRESHEN YOU UP AFTER A LONG DAY IN THE SADDLE. GREAT MEALS ARE AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK, AND THE AMBER LIFESTYLE ENHANCERS ARE PITTHE TROOPY ADVENTURER’S STOP DITCHED THE 4X4’S POSSIBLY THE COLDEST AND DUSTED OFF THEIR BIKES, FOR A QUICK IN QLD! WEEKEND ADVENTURE. Friday night was a late one. First night fever struck hard, Stepping out of Branxton The Nindi pub is the oldest with a couple of dozen trips bottleshop on Thursday hotel still operating in to the front bar and more evening with the Queensland and was karaoke style participation obligatory post day shift originally a shearers with the local muso then I’d largie, the weekend had quarters, before it was issued care to admit. The wee hours officially commenced. a liquor license in 1864. It seen us in a hazy, stumble My offsider Cal, our mate is now a popular stop with back to camp. Giggling like Discount Steve and I were truckies and travellers school girls with the boys going to motor the bikes passing through. in attempts to try and gain North-West over the border Early Friday morning, we access to our swags. for a couple of days at the were met with single digit Saturday came and went, Nidigully pub. temperatures to wake us up with most of the day spent

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YOUNG GUN AMELIA (4) WITH A MOSES PERCH

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IF IT GETS PUBLISHED! BIG WINNERS finally managed to catch his first marlin. And it is a beauty, weighing Thank you to everyone who entered a whopping 70kgs! Oliver’s dad the Zacatak Lures Competition. You made our job of selecting a winner Anthony and his mate Mick impossible. So impossible that we supported him throughout the ended up choosing two. We also catch but Oliver did the work. want to say well done to all the Congratulations to Kahlee who THE FISHING DOESN’T GET dads out there who are passionate landed a monster 22.5kg Spanish about fishing and are sharing that mackerel after an intense 15 passion with their kids. minute battle out at South ANY BETTER Congratulations to Oliver, who West Rocks. OFFSHORE the Mackerel have arrived in great Whiting and Jewfish. “It doesn’t matter whether you are We are currently in the middle of numbers with some solid Cobia AND DON’T FORGET THE an experienced angler or picking mixed in as well. up a rod for the first time. The one of the best Marlin seasons we’ve PIRTEK NATIONAL FISHING PIRTEK Fishing Challenge is all ever seen, so if it’s on the bucket ESTUARY CHALLENGE CELEBRATES 10 about getting together with your list now’s the time to head out and In the Lake we are seeing good YEARS, WITH ANGLERS FROM friends and family, having fun and have a crack whether its hunting numbers of Arrow Squid taken ACROSS AUSTRALIA FLOCKING supporting our charity partners.” the inshore reefs or out wide on the around the drop over and Murrays TO THE WORLD’S BIGGEST car park. The Bluefin Tuna of the Beach areas. School Jewfish are FISHING COMPETITION. For more information northern variety have been sighted also being caught in good numbers The Challenge is a major fundraising and to register - www. up off the bay and with everything on live squid and soft plastic lures initiative that helps to raise funds pirtekfishingchallenge.com.au else that’s happening we should worked around the bait schools. It’s for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Bait up! – Thrifty’s see an epic run of these speedsters definitely still worth baiting up a Australia (PCFA) and awareness of as well. trap for a crab as they are still in the disease. The challenge is also Dolphin fish are also plaguing great numbers covering all local a major fundraising partner for the local fads and fish trap floats inshore waters. the Peter Duncan Neurosciences Research Unit. scattered east of the bay in 90 BEACHES meters of water. While we are on With the Sun easing off the burn This year’s challenge will take place the subject if you have a couple of autumn is a great time of year to on Sunday 18 March 2018 and is days up your sleeve its well worth hit the beaches with just about offering a record $210,000 in cash heading north a couple of hours to everything on offer in good and prizes. Harrington or Port Macquarie as numbers especially Tailor, Bream, Event Director Michael Guest said,

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WIN! Checking out the latest BRING ON BUNNINGS tools, picking up those FOR MANY OF US HEADING TO bits and pieces for your BUNNINGS ON THE WEEKEND IS latest DIY project, or grabbing THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK. a coffee after dumping the kids in the play area, it’s a handyman’s heaven. For your chance to win a $100 voucher, simply SMS: BUNNINGS and your email address to 0438 474 290. Limit of one entry per person. LTPM/17/02507

necessity, in the absence of a fifth of such machines produced, tangible solution. this Dozer is set to hit the dirt next Designed to pull a 10m, 40t blade month and if it’s anything like its plough, this Dozer’s chassis has siblings, will pull and pull hard all been extended 21.5 inches and is day, all without missing a beat! fitted with a 3512B engine (better As you might imagine, designing known for driving 150t Cat 785 and manufacturing such a dump trucks), upgraded torque machine wasn’t all smooth HAVE YOU EVER… convertor with lockup control, sailing and in the early days, it the addition of a second cooling had its fair share of naysayers. HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHAT IT IS THAT MAKES ‘US’ AUSSIES Yet, here it is, another Aussie SO INNOVATIVE? BE IT OUR ISOLATION FROM THE REST OF THE system (installed on top of the innovation and (I believe it safe to WORLD, OR SIMPLE WILLINGNESS TO ROLL-UP OUR SLEEVES AND ROPS) to cool the transmission say) machine unique in Australia GET ON WITH THE JOB, WE’VE A REPUTATION FOR INNOVATION. and hydraulics, modified pre- cleaners and exhaust pipes as well and the rest of the world. A true as removal of all the electronics, market leader and solution for the Such is the solution pictured inventions, this machine is not thereby simplifying maintenance agricultural sector. above, a purpose built ‘stretched’ unlike other Aussie innovations and addressing the many items If you know of a machine that Cat D11R Dozer created specifically such as the Black Box flight that can render equipment warrants attention, drop me a line, for the Australian agricultural recorder or cochlear implant, unserviceable in the harsh and I’d love to know more at industry. Alongside other in that, it was born out of remote Australian outback. The [email protected]

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If there’s one thing the Hunter how experienced you are and access points including Valley has in abundance (apart what you are looking for in Millfield, Quorrobolong and from mines and wines) it’s a walk. Freemans Waterhole and some bloody great walking For those of you who require walks graded from easy trails. One of the most well- beer stops along the way try through to hard. What you known trails in NSW is The the very beginning of the walk can expect from most of these Great North Walk. This 250 which starts at Queen’s Wharf trails is abundant foliage and km path starts in Newcastle in Newcastle. This easy stroll wildlife, beautiful rock caves, and heads in to the Watagans offers great ocean views and refreshingly clear and cool before finishing at Sydney. plenty of coffee shops and waterfalls and absolutely Currently the record for hiking bars to refuel at along the way. breathtaking lookouts. the Great North Walk stands Stop at all the heritage sites Unfortunately, you can also expect leeches, bloody steep at 54 hours and 52 minutes, along the way including , Newcastle Obelisk hills and no mobile service but the best thing about this and my favourite Murdering in areas. So, play it safe and walk is it’s easily broken down Gully. It’s claimed a Glenrock always make sure you have WIN! into manageable sections coal miner was leaning over a good maps, a compass and you depending on how fit you are, waterfall trying to catch water tell someone where you are CHOC OVERLOAD for his tea when he fell. When going and how long you are IT’S EASTER TIME WHICH MEANS EASTER his body was found the head likely to be. EGG HUNTS, PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AND BEST was missing and to this day Whether you take a leisurely OF ALL - GORGING YOURSELF his ghost wanders around still stroll along the beach, a ON CHOCOLATE. looking for its missing head. strenuous hike through tough We have a delicious Easter Hamper FOR THOSE WHO TAKE THEIR terrain or simply meander to give away to kickstart your HIKING MORE SERIOUSLY down to the local, there is Easter celebrations. AND WANT TO HEAD INTO nothing as refreshing for the THE WILDERNESS, YOU mind and the body as walking For your chance to win a delicious ARE GOING TO WANT out the front door and seeing hamper simply SMS: EASTER and your email TO TRY SOME OF THE where your feet take you. So, address to 0438 474 290. WATAGANS ATRAILS. ditch the work boots for hiking Limit of one entry per person. LTPM/17/02507 There’s lots of different boots and take a hike!

CongratulationsCancer Council NSW, Singleton Office The Bloomfield Group congratulates Cancer Council NSW for operating in Singleton for five years. The many local families who’ve been affected by cancer know the tremendous work of the Cancer Council NSW. So does the entire Bloomfield Group workforce at our Rix’s Creek Mine. We are locally owned and operated and are part of the Singleton community. That’s why we back vitally important community causes. That’s why we are a major supporter of Cancer Council NSW and particularly their Singleton services. To everyone at Cancer Council NSW who has helped so many people in Singleton, thank you, well done…. and keep up the good work.

Luke Murray Manager, Rix’s Creek Mine

Reg Crick, The Bloomfield Group, Michael Johnsen, Member for Upper Hunter, John Richards, The Bloomfield Group, Glen Parsons, Cancer Council, Sue Moore, Mayor of Singleton, Clint Ekert, Cancer Council, Alex Richards, Bruce Richards and Luke Murray (The Bloomfield Group) @ THE COALFACE | MARCH - APRIL 2018 35 THE PIEMINISTER @ THE COALFACE GRAB A BITE @ THE COALFACE

They don’t even taste like ANYWAY, AFTER ALL We have made a deal that chocolate! I learnt that the THAT HARD WORK THE I will buy them a chocky THE EASTER CHICKEN VS hard way as a 6 year old NEW RESIDENTS HAD egg for every real one when I collected a basketful ME THINKING ‘CHICKEN they collect between now from my two pet ones and PIES’. SO, I FIRED UP THE and Easter. THE EASTER BUNNY in the excitement of Easter KINGSWOOD, HEADED Come Easter morning I morning shoved the lot in UP TO DENMAN BAKERY THE EASTER BUNNY WON’T BE VISITING THE will then surprise them my gob at once. They may FOR A FLAKEY TOPPED GRANDKIDS THIS YEAR BECAUSE I HAVE DECIDED when they rush out to have been brown and egg PASTRY CHOOK BAG AND IT’S TIME THEY UNDERSTOOD THAT THE ONLY say hi to their beloved pet shaped but they tasted TO GRAB A BAG OF FEED BROWN EGGS A RABBIT CAN LAY ARE THE SMALL chooks. They’ll find the nothing like chocolate and FROM DENMAN DAPKOS CRAPPY MINI EGG-SHAPED ONES THAT COME OUT OF little cluckers have moved were crap to be honest. The RURAL SUPPLIES AS WELL THEIR BACKSIDE. Easter Bunny is history!! TO FATTEN UP THE TWO out and in their place will be the promised chocolate So I bought two chooks NEW CLUCKERS. THE eggs and a family sized recently, turned an old PIE WAS A CLUCKING chicken pie made the night washery basket upside RIPPA! FINGER LICKING before after introducing down for their new home, GOOD AS THE COLONEL made a few modifications, WOULD SAY. our feathered friends to and moved them in. It’s Anyway, the kids have their other purpose in life like a fortress for chooks fallen in love with their – Easter lunch! and the local cats were new pets, feeding them Happy Easter everyone... even impressed. and collecting the eggs. Pie Minister Sol

The investigators then hired an ornithological ‘AVE A behaviorist to determine PH if there was a cause for LAUGH WITH 02 6571 2983 the disproportionate percentages of motorbike The Police have found appears to have been kills versus car kills. They many dead crows on the from vehicular impacts. quickly concluded that Golden Highway and there However, during analysis when crows eat road is concern they may have of the paints founds on kill they always have a died from Avian Flu. A the bird’s beaks and claws lookout crow to warn of pathologist examined the it has been determined danger. They discovered remains of all the crows that 98% of the crows have that while the lookout and has confirmed the been killed by impacts crows could shout “Cah” problem is not Avian Flu. with motorcycles and only not a single one could The cause of death 2% were killed by cars. shout “bike”.

36 MARCH - APRIL 2018 | @ THE COALFACE THE PIEMINISTER @ THE COALFACE GRAB A BITE @ THE COALFACE TOP OF THE TOWN

AS I SAT DOWN TO WRITE ABOUT MUSWELLBROOK’S REMINGTON RESTAURANT, I HAD A LOOK ONLINE TO SEE WHAT OTHERS THOUGHT. THE VERY FIRST REVIEW ON TRIP ADVISOR SAID, “THE STAFF AND SERVICE ARE PERFECT. THE RESTAURANT BELONGS IN MELBOURNE. THE FOOD IS SECOND TO NONE.” I AGREE.

The reason I decided to check out Trip the fame. I try not to copy Advisor was because we often let the and do my own thing. I’m a places we visit know we are coming. family man and working here suits It means we nearly always get great me very well,” Darren told us. work closely with Jason food but I sometimes wonder if they Our feast on the day started with from Hunter Belle try a little harder because they are a trio of dips that were a cut above expecting us. So, in due diligence I Cheese, free range egg and full of flavor only achieved by thought I should do some research supplier Hunter Country Farm, someone who knows what they are online as well as talking to a few Pukara and local wineries including doing. Delicious prawns with chilli people I know from up that way. First Creek, Tamburlaine, Hollydeane and coconut milk followed and and Two Rivers Small Forest.” THE VERDICT: THE REMINGTON IS threatened to derail our appetite. REGARDED AS MUSWELLBROOK’S From there a surprising delicately The Remington left us completely FINEST DINING DESTINATION fried crocodile main and buttery satisfied and without a doubt we will AND I AM CONFIDENT EVERYONE aged sirloin on the bone finished us be back soon. Great stuff guys. WHO WALKS THROUGH THE DOOR off. Dessert was almost beyond us GETS TREATED THE SAME – REALLY but trust us. Don’t skip it. BLOODY WELL! Manager Tamara Peterson sat Head chef Darren Stokes has been down for a chat and told us, “We at the helm since the place opened try to bring a little bit of class to and really tries to do things a little Muswellbrook and be somewhere bit different. A background in fine dining starting with Robert Molines locals are proud to come. We recently and stints at some of the Hunters won the Hunter Region Business best restaurants along the way, he Award for hospitality and tourism has cooked for everyone from Rod and Business of the Year which is Stewart to Kerry Packer. “For me it’s great for the town as well.” the food that’s important not chasing “If we can source locally we do. We

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X G Y E N O I T A L I T N E V Hi-vis and workboots Digging in this big hole! Hard hats and gloves K O V B C F L N A T F M D P A It’s dirty and dusty We show up for the money we all pray for rain H T Z P T I G E O L O G I S T Sure as hell not for love! We whinge and we bitch Pre-starts and musters But are always back again! I C E O M U T S V U U R L N O Toolbox talks and HIIT’s Because the friendships we make W V H K B A O T U E S A H I R 103’s and inspections and the memories we create So mundane, its the shits! will far outlive B S U A C I L U A R D Y H C A Day in and day out all the moments we hate! X L L M X U R Y Z R F P O I L We stare at this dirt The dirt is in our veins Following rules and procedures The diesel is in our blood R X A K N R B C V H B A J J L so as not to get hurt! And if we are truly honest V U U S L O N G W A L L C J I Move windrows and bunds We do it for the love! Dump waste and save coal Letitia Russell O B H E T A N O T E D M N E P There’s money to be made Mt Owen

38 MARCH - APRIL 2018 | @ THE COALFACE ENTERTAINMENT @ THE COALFACE TRAVEL @ THE COALFACE GOING SOUTH a range of water sports, cycling THERE IS NOTHING LIKE A ROAD TRIP TO BLOW OUT THE and bushwalking. COBWEBS, AND A DRIVE FROM THE HUNTER TO MELBOURNE VIA THE NSW SOUTH COAST IS ONE OF THE BEST. Along the way pull in to the smaller towns for your pub, club, restaurant and take away feeds Road trips from our neck of the Definitely pack enough basic or at the flash end, are places woods usually mean heading camping gear to increase your like Rick Stein’s at Bannisters north. For lone rangers, couples choices along the way even if you in Mollymook. Batemans Bay is and families alike, spending decide not to use it. Make sure you bigger but has plenty to offer and a ‘take it as is comes’ week camp at least once like I did in the travelling through places like cruising south down one of swag at the amazing little ocean Narooma, Bermagui (great pub the most beautiful, relaxing front Tuross Beach Holiday Park. and feed here I can tell ya’) and on and picturesque stretches THE GENERAL RULE I APPLIED to Tathra (where I crashed with of the Australian coastline WAS NO MORE THAN A FEW friends for free), a beer in the pub won’t disappoint. HOURS DRIVING A DAY. on the headland is a must. A trip like this is more about From beautiful beaches and From here it was on into Victoria forgetting than remembering, spectacular wilderness, to fun through national park and pretty because within the first 24 hours adventure and cracking food towns towards Lakes Entrance your troubles, stresses and plans and wine, the South Coast is an where a three-star motel delivered will all be forgotten. This is not unforgettable experience. a great night’s kip. From there it a trip that should be planned was onto Portsea pub for a beer very much at all in my opinion. My first detour after leaving the on the Mornington Peninsula. Only vaguely deciding each day’s Hunter was just south of Sydney Melbourne then beckoned for destination and activities on the through the Royal National Park a night on the town and a very morning you wake up has the on the Grand Pacific Drive towards flash feed. effect of slowing down time and appropriately named Coalcliff at making the trip a more delightful the southern end. It’s a spectacular Next day I did the big drive home and surprising adventure. Taking spin through one of the world’s in one hit which was a mistake. it as it comes is the way to go. oldest national parks and over the Stop along the way to break it up amazing Seacliff bridge. Taking somewhere like Albury or Wagga. But where will we stay I hear you the detours is the point here, that’s ask? Anywhere you bloody well This was not an all that expensive where the special stuff is found. want my friends is the answer. trip really and it was mostly the From camping in out-of-the-way Going south you can try Jamberoo little free experiences along way beachside van parks to staying Action Park and the zip-lines like a dip in the ocean or chat with in B and B’s, basic motels and of the Illawarra Fly Treetop a friendly local that made it great. five-star luxury - mixing it up will Adventures. Relax on some of So, get on your bike and start make the trip memorable. I did a the whitest sands in the world at pedaling! Actually bad idea! I bit of everything and something Hyam’s Beach, go diving, savour clocked up a surprising 2500k’s so different each night. freshly shucked oysters and enjoy drive might be a better idea.

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