Anglo American's regular community update on Dawson mine, including the road access restoration project, alternative routes and community impact study.
Anglo American is committed to providing regular updates on the Dawson mine road access issues and other mine information that will be of interest to the community and stakeholders.
ROAD ACCESS RESTORATION PROJECT
Anglo American’s priority is restoring safe public access across the mine lease as soon as possible.
The Gibihi Road failure was unexpected and investigation into the cause of the incident indicates the circular geotechnical failure is significant and extends between the mine and Gibihi Road. The area is extremely unstable and continues to be monitored using a slope stability radar system.
Anglo American, in consultation with Banana Shire Council, is conducting an options study to determine the safest approach for future public vehicle access.
The technical requirements to develop options has been more complicated and taken more time than originally expected due to the failure mechanisms. We apologise for the uncertainty and frustration this has caused. Please be assured restoring access is our priority and we are working hard to ensure a solution is found as quickly as possible. We expect to be able to conclude the assessment of options within the next two weeks.
Anglo American has agreed access arrangements with Queensland Emergency Services in the case of medical emergencies.
CURRENT ALTERNATIVE ROUTE: KIANGA ROAD
An alternative route is available via Kianga Road, which has now been graded to improve access. Anglo American is conducting regular dust suppression and is installing temporary electric fencing to improve safety conditions of the road. Anglo American is also investigating additional options to upgrade the road in the near future.
If using Kianga Road, please drive slowly and carefully and observe road conditions.
COMMUNITY IMPACT STUDY
Anglo American understands the closure of Gibihi Road has caused frustration for all road users. We apologise to the community for the disruption.
To understand the full range of impacts of the road closure, Anglo American has appointed professional services firm, Ernst & Young, to conduct a community impact study.
Ernst & Young will consult and seek feedback from the community on behalf of Anglo American. Final details for community consultation are being confirmed and will be communicated soon. Interested parties may pre-register for consultation sessions by emailing: [email protected].
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