Longwall performance reached desired levels during September although quarterly production was below expectations. The longwall advanced 532m in panel 22 yielding 573 ROM tonnes.

As previously reported, extended commissioning delayed full ramp-up.

Elevated gas levels associated with a dyke zone have been left behind, with mining through the area successfully completed on October 6. Heavy convergence conditions were experienced on the tailgate side of the panel where the dyke exited the face.

Austral said the longwall is now well positioned to improve production performance in the remaining 1,275m of the panel largely unencumbered by gas, dyke and major commissioning problems that characterised the first 600m.

Improved mining conditions and bonuses for metres achieved aided Tahmoor development teams to reach 5,219m of development during the quarter.

At the end of the quarter two Tahmoor development units were advancing the 803 panel gateroads forming the next panel 23, with the third unit driving gateroads for panel 24 which will commence mining late next year.

Two Roche contract development units are now clear of disturbed areas where grunching was required. Roche had completed more than 65% of its development contract by September 30.

Expenditure on exploration and mine development during the quarter was A$11.96 million.