Established fleet and mine plan efficiencies at Moolarben complex led to a 35% upsurge in production on the year prior due to the realisation of the benefits of the Stage 2 open cut expansion and improved yields.

The production profile at the Austar underground mine also seems to be on the mend, with production up 394% on the year prior, having sustained steady production and development rates throughout the reporting period.

Preparations have started for a scheduled longwall move in the first quarter of 2017.

Ashton underground production was down 42% on the year prior, due to ongoing interruptions to the longwall caused by rock intrusions within the seam, reducing cutting rates and increasing change out times throughout the reporting period.

Production at Yancooal’s Stratford Duralie mine was down 51% for the quarter, following the redesign of the Duralie pit and reduction in operations, the company said.

In Queensland, the Yarrabee open cut production was up 13% on the year prior, offsetting minor wet weather interruptions experienced during December.

Production at the Middlemount joint venture was up 53% year-on-year, attributable to improved production rates throughout the reporting period, overcoming minor wet weather interruptions during December.