Operations at Wongawilli were halted at the end of May 2017 due to Delta SBD entering into voluntary administration, the company said.

“The mining contract with SBD was terminated and the company resumed the role of mine operator for Wongawilli colliery on or around July 6 2017,” Wollongong Coal said in its half yearly report.

“Significant remedial works were undertaken in July and August 2017 to address the general state of the mine that had been poorly maintained by SBD.

“Eventually mining operations were restored and production commenced albeit at reduced rate in September 2017.”

Wollongong Coal, which reported a half yearly loss of $23.7 million,  is also investigating the potential sale of the non-core land owned by the company.

Its total landholding comprises 455.24 hectares. Of this total landholding, Wollongong Coal considers approximately 279.98ha as necessary for its coal mining operations.

“Wollongong Coal considers the balance of the land is suitable for sub-division redevelopment over the short, medium and long term non-operational land,” it said.

 

“To this end, Wollongong Coal has undertaken a preliminary analysis, including engaging advisors and canvassing interest from developers, in relation to the potential sale of part of the non-operational land.”