Arabic version: الموافقة على إعادة افتتاح منجم النحاس ماونت لايل

According to ABC News, Sibanye-Stillwater has received board approval to restart Tasmania’s historic Mt Lyell copper mine near Queenstown, a move expected to create more than 300 jobs on the state’s west coast.

The mine was an economic driver for the region for more than a century before entering care and maintenance in 2014. The shutdown followed the deaths of three workers within six weeks and damage to underground infrastructure caused by a rockfall. Sibanye-Stillwater acquired the operation in 2023.

Company general manager Clint Mayes said the project would require capital investment of about $490 million. The funding is planned for a new processing plant, refurbishment of the existing shaft, and improvements to ventilation, power, water and pumping. Work is scheduled to begin early next year, with production targeted for early 2029.

Sibanye-Stillwater plans annual production of 26,000 metric tonnes of copper, 16,000 troy ounces of gold and 116,000 troy ounces of silver. It believes the mine could operate for another 23 years. Tasmania’s government has provided $9.5 million for early works and plans a $25 million package once the mine reopens.

Safety will be a focus of the revitalised operation, with the company planning increased automation and tele-remote technology to remove workers from draw points during mining. Sibanye-Stillwater said the mine would use hydropower, remain within its existing and previously disturbed footprint, and carry environmental, rehabilitation and closure obligations under applicable regulations.