The roof fall stopped production at the mine – which produced 5.5 million tonnes of raw coal in 2010 – and is now the subject of an investigation involving the company, contractor Mastermyne, the Construction Forestry Mining Energy Union and the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation.

“Operations at Moranbah mine have been halted due to a slump of ground in a conveyor drift on Monday 7 November,” an Anglo American spokesperson told ILN.

“No one was injured and safe recovery operations have commenced in consultation with the Mines Inspectorate and the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the slump.”

French visited Moranbah on October 26 and announced a $1 million investment towards the upgrade of the children’s play pool at Moranbah’s Greg Cruickshank aquatic centre as part of its $20 million Moranbah 2020 program.

Mastermyne’s North Moranbah development contract, along with its Oaky Creek conveyors and Newstan conveyors drivage contracts, were major contributors to the company’s $164.83 million in revenue in FY2011, which was up 26% on its initial public offering prospectus forecast and 68% higher than its FY2010 result.

Mastermyne’s Moranbah North drivage roadway development contract was signed with Anglo in October 2010.

Anglo’s Moranbah North umbrella contract with Mastermyne was also renewed for another two years, with a two-year extension option.