Australia's High-Grade Gold Mine Faces Closure, Following Seismic Damage

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The gold mining operations at Western Austalia’s Raleigh gold mine was suspended after underground blasting caused substantial seismic damage. This is the second major seismic event reported at the mine over the past few years.

According to reports, at least two underground levels sustained substantial damage caused by underground blasting. The company noted that it is not in a position to continue with mining operations, as the situation demands significant rehabilitation works in order to re-establish access to the mine. The seismic activity has reportedly caused damage to area nearly 400 metres below the surface.

The statement issued by minority share owners Tribune Resources and Rand Mining noted that the firing of stoping panels led to significant seismic response. No employees were at the underground mine at the time of firing. However, the event has forced the company to exclude all underground activity at the southern mining area. Northern Star, which operates the mine, stated that the mine would probably be placed on care and maintenance from April this year.

The Raleigh underground gold mine is one of Australia’s highest-grade gold mines. The mine has so far produced over 1 million ounces of gold.

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