The mine, which received government approval in November 2001, is located at Mt Kembla in New South Wales and will produce 5.2 million tonnes when it reaches full production within the next few years.
Illawarra Coal president Col Bloomfield said Dendrobium was the first new mine investment in the NSW southern coalfields in more than 20 years, and its importance to the region would have long-lasting effects.
“It has generated work throughout the project for close to 1000 people. Going forward, there will be 170 people directly employed at the site, plus contractors. I am confident that our skilled and motivated workforce will ensure a significant and enduring contribution.”
Bloomfield acknowledged the involvement of more than 300 local businesses to the project and thanked major contractors Walter Mining and Hatch Engineering.
