April 2008

News in brief

Coal & Allied employees dig deep for rescue helicopter

Coal & Allied employees have donated $15,000 to the community-funded Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS) in the past 12 months through a payroll deduction scheme. This is in addition to the company sponsorship of $75,000.

"While we are working towards our goal of zero injuries, it's reassuring to know that if something goes wrong, the WRHS is there for our employees and the broader community," Coal & Allied Managing Director Hubie van Dalsen said.

"When one of our employees was injured last year, the WRHS did an amazing job of getting him to hospital as soon as possible. I am proud of the generosity shown by our New South Wales employees to support such an indispensable service."

Pictured:  The rescue helicopter in action, proudly sponsored by Coal & Allied.

RTCA welcomes new graduates

Twenty new graduates have started working at RTCA in this year's Rio Tinto graduate programme. The eight Queensland and 12 New South Wales graduates include mining, electrical, mechanical and civil engineers as well as graduates from environment and external relations.

RTCA Managing Director Hubie van Dalsen said: "On behalf of everyone at RTCA I would like to extend a warm welcome to all our new graduates. I hope they settle well into their new roles and make the most of the development opportunities available through our excellent graduate programme."

Pictured:  Hunter Valley Operations first year graduates Tori Berry, Shane Sinclair and Matt Pilgrim.

World's Greatest Shave

Bengalla, Blair Athol Mine and Hail Creek Mine raised more than $13,000 during the annual World's Greatest Shave Mine Challenge last month. Nineteen employees shaved or coloured their hair for the event, collecting money to help the Leukaemia Foundation. For more photos click here

Pictured:  Blair Athol Mine employee John Smith parted with a pony tail he has had for more than 30 years, raising in excess of $1,500.

MTW silo restoration complete

In December MM looked at a project at MTW using F1 technology to repair clean coal silos. The project has now been completed on time, on budget and without incident or injury.

The project was to reinforce and secure the clean coal silos for the MTW preparation plant so they last until the mine closes, at least another 25 years.

MTW Contract Supervisor Les Smith said the project had been a success and saved Coal & Allied at least $9 million by not having to rebuild the structures.