Gimber, C. | CRC Care Mine Rehab Conference, 19-21 June, Newcastle, NSW, Australia, 34 slides, 2019

A coordinated approach to rehabilitation planning and implementation was developed for the Clermont Coal Mine in Queensland, Australia, customized to the unique characteristics of the site. Key elements of the approach included setting realistic rehabilitation targets, providing consistent work to ensure continuity of the rehabilitation workforce, and establishing open and meaningful communication at appropriate times. The site adopts a rolling 2-year rehabilitation cycle, with the initial tasks comprising bulk earthworks and landform shaping, followed by detailed trimming, drainage works and revegetation. The site presents several challenges, including a seasonal climate, dispersive soils and high landforms. Measures adopted at the site include the use of tri-linear slopes to stabilize long batters (the side slopes of cuttings and embankments) and control erosion, trials of a range of seed mixes and ground stabilization approaches, different topsoil combinations, use of basalt for armoring and various drainage design techniques. Many of the approaches applied at Clermont Coal Mine could be applied at other coal and mineral mines to improve rehabilitation outcomes across the industry. https://www.minedlandrehab.com.au/chris-gimber.html