Goonyella Riverside Mine
| Company type | Coal mine |
|---|---|
| Industry | Mining |
| Founded | 1971 |
| Headquarters | Moranbah , Australia |
Area served | Bowen Basin, Central Queensland |
| Products | Coking coal |
| Owner | BHP Mitsubishi Alliance |
Goonyella Riverside Mine is a significant open cut coking coal mine situated within the Bowen Basin, approximately 30 km north of Moranbah in Central Queensland, Australia. Between July 2012 and June 2013, the mine yielded 12.4 million tonnes of metallurgical coal, with output rising to 17.1 million tonnes by 2019.
The mine, under the ownership of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, extracts coal from the Goonyella Upper, Middle, and Lower Seams. This coal is distinguished by its superior coking qualities, and certain premium grades require the addition of ash at wash plants to comply with export standards.
History
Initially developed by Central Queensland Coal Associates (with Utah International Corporation holding 85% and Mitsubishi Development Co 15%), the Goonyella Mine was later acquired by BHP. Mining activities commenced at Goonyella in 1971, followed by operations at Riverside starting in 1982. The Riverside deposit was fully mined out by 2005.
On 12 November 2019, BMA Operations revealed intentions to automate a fleet of 86 Komatsu haul trucks by 2020. This initiative attracted criticism from the CFMEU Mining & Energy Division and Queensland Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington, who urged a reassessment of mine operation permits.
The mine is colloquially referred to as "Goonyella Green," and its haul trucks bear names inspired by racehorses.
Coal extracted from the site is transported via the Goonyella railway line through Hay Point for international export.
Safety
Since 1990, there have been four fatal incidents recorded at the mine. In 2018, miner Tyrone Buckton succumbed to silicosis caused by prolonged exposure to elevated silica dust levels, underscoring persistent occupational health challenges within coal mining environments.