The alliance agreement with Energy Australia will extend RTL’s existing operations at the mine to 2026. The contract will generate revenue of approximately A$450 million (US$337) for RTL, of which Thiess’ share is A$195 million.

CIMIC chief executive officer Adolfo Valderas said: “This extension is a testament to the strength of the relationship between Energy Australia, Thiess and RTL, reflecting the goodwill that has been developed during the past 16 years.”

CIMIC Group executive mining and mineral processing, and Thiess manager director, Michael Wright said: “This contract extension provides certainty to the committed workforce who have contributed to the alliance’s success at the site, through the delivery of innovative solutions.

“RTL and Energy Australia have provided mining services at Yallourn since commencing operations in 2000, with RTL introducing a new and innovative coal mining technique using highly modified Cat D11R carry dozers pushing to feeder breakers.”

The new contract continues to deliver the mining of overburden and coal, and includes the maintenance of an extensive network of conveyors and other infrastructure.

Yallourn open-cut coal mine supplies the Yallourn Power Station in the Latrobe Valley, providing 20% of Victoria’s electricity requirements.