The contract, with revenue of A$180 million (US$138.8 million), continues Thiess’ mining development and operations at the site through to December 2019.

Marcelino Fernández Verdes, executive chairman and CEO at Thiess’ parent compant CIMIC, said: “Thiess’ global platform enables them to deliver safe, efficient and productive outcomes for clients across a variety of geographical locations.”

Michael Wright, managing director at Thiess, added: “The Melak contract extension is a testament to our performance at the mine since 2008. We are pleased to extend our partnership with the Bayan Group and continue our focus on delivering innovative and sustainable mining solutions for our client.”

The contract extension follows Thiess’ recent 14-month contract award for underground mining at BHP Billiton Nickel West’s Leinster 1A orebody.

The Leinster 1A underground development and sub-level open stoping contract is focused 900m underground and builds on the same contracting model provided for the adjacent Rocky’s Reward open-cut mine in Leinster Western Australia.

Wright said: “The Leinster 1A underground nickel mine contract cements our footprint in the goldfield region of Western Australia, further demonstrating our underground mining capability.”