Whitehaven transitions 100-year-old Werris Creek to full time rehabilitation

Whitehaven Coal is winding down mining activities at Werris Creek mine in NSW to transition to full time rehabilitation which is expected to conclude in 2027.

Last coal was extracted in April and the final train is set to depart the site by the end of June.

The site has delivered over 26mt of high-quality thermal coal since Whitehaven commenced operations in 2005 while maintaining its position as Whitehaven’s lowest-cost producer.

Werris Creek operations manager Murray O’Keefe praises the high standards set by Whitehaven’s personnel over a near-two decade run.

“The 150-strong workforce at Werris Creek has been integral to our continued success at the site and has reaffirmed why our people remain one of our greatest assets,” he said.

“Having the success of the mine recognised by external bodies – from the recent praise from the NSW Resources Regulator for operational excellence to its nomination for 2022 Mining Operation of the Year by the NSW Minerals Council – is testament to the hard work put in by our team members every single day.”

Whitehaven’s involvement at the site continues with its progression into rehabilitation operations. Having commenced land management measures almost ten years ago, roughly half – or about 235 hectares – of land disturbed by mining has already been rehabilitated.

Whitehaven plans to establish an open box gum woodland scape that is safe, sustainable and beneficial to the surrounding environment.

Whitehaven managing director and chief executive officer Paul Flynn says he is grateful for the team overseeing the rehabilitation, as well as the permanent employees who have operated the mine since Whitehaven assumed full control.

“We’re fortunate that many of our Werris Creek staff have opted to relocate with Whitehaven as opposed to seeking work elsewhere,” he said.

“This high retention rate is a testament to the site’s management team and the high-performing culture they’ve developed.

“What we have achieved at Werris Creek – two decades of strong, safe and sustainable operations – would not have been possible without the efforts of a small but dedicated team of people.

“I’m proud to celebrate this extraordinary site and all those who helped make it tick – I know it will always hold a special place in many hearts.”