"timbin the mine plan used two declines into the Westralia reef in order to access the highest grade ore from Allanson and Beresford"
There are three declines not two which access Beresford (2 declines) and Allanson (1 decline) accordimg to DCN's block models (see below). I'm going to do a comparison to try and show how DCN's tonnage adjusted for grade compares to a similar series of deposits that are being mined from a single decline. Even before find and run the numbers it would seem to me that the number of declines is more than adequate. If there is a problem (fatal flaw) it is probbaly around the number of stope faces that have to be developed similtaneously to produce the feasibilty daily ore tonnage from Westralia.
That problem seems to be more in line with what we have been told, ie the mine needs more boggers and haul trucks, not more access points to the surface. The problem on face value (if you trust their story) stems for the contractors and the contracting industry in general. The industry is basically a basket case where mining comtractors can't maintian readiness because their own businesses are in constant gyrations because of the flicklness of sentiment and gold prices. Have a look at some of the mining contractors recently that have actually extend credit (loans) to the companies they are working for just to keep their own fleets working and some of these companies afloat. BLK, BDR and GCY are just a few examples that immediatley spring to mind. These companies can't afford to retain excess capacity and "readiness" in terms of workers or equipment when they are working for such a weak low value industry.
People might remember that NST dropped some of their UG mining contractors a while back, probably to take back control over their operations.
Look at seek.com, there are 1,155 jobs going under the search term UG Charge operator.
https://www.seek.com.au/underground-charge-up-jobs/full-time
NST describes this role as per below. Esh
"The Opportunity
We currently have an opportunity at our Kalgoorlie Operations on a 14/14 roster. This is a challenging and exciting role which allows you to utilise your previous skills and experience whilst building relationships within all levels of the business.
Role:
The Charge-Up Operator reports to the Underground Shift Supervisor. The primary role is to charge development and production headings within the Operations.
Skills Required:
• Dangerous Goods Security Card (DGSC).
• West Australian Shotfiring Licence.
• Minimum 3 years relevant experience in the mining industry.
• Must have previous experience in both Development and Production Charge
Up.
• Competent in the use of a range of underground loaders.
• Working at Heights ticket.
• Good communication skills.
• St Johns Senior First Aid certificate (desirable).
• Awareness of the Mine Safety and Inspection Act & Regulations.
• Current “C” Class Western Australian Drivers Licence."
