Thiess Joins Hail Creek Team

Issue Date:  06 June 2002
Issued By:  Thiess Pty Ltd

Major Australasian engineering company Thiess Pty Ltd has received Notice of Award to construct an $82 million coal handling and preparation plant (CHPP) at Hail Creek Mine, near Nebo in Queensland’s Bowen Basin.

Thiess and Joint Venture partner Sedgman Pty Ltd will design, construct, commission and test a new, state-of-the-art CHPP for Pacific Coal Pty Ltd subsidiary Hail Creek Developments.

Executive General Manager Qld/NT/PNG Mr Murray Fox said Thiess’ recently formed Joint Venture with CHPP design and construction company Sedgman was a key factor in the Hail Creek success.

“Thiess and Sedgman joined forces in November last year to provide the coal industry with a ‘one stop’ solution for coal processing design and construction,” he said.

“Sedgman already had a long-term role in the Hail Creek development, which put us in a good position to offer a complete service for design and construction of the new CHPP.”

Qld/NT/PNG Process Engineering Manager Mr Peter Halpin said Thiess and Hail Creek had negotiated a contract that was heavily focused on safety, environmental management and community relations.

“I believe our success was due to having the best available CHPP technology and the same commitment as our client to a safe workplace, minimal environmental impact and to supporting the communities surrounding the project,” he said.

“Thiess develops and implements detailed safety, environmental and community involvement plans on all of its projects.

“For example, our Hail Creek workforce (which will peak at some 200) will be regionally based wherever possible and we will ensure that local businesses are given the opportunity to tender for appropriate work packages.”

While design of the new plant has commenced, construction will not start until July this year, with completion expected by August 2003.

Thiess has a strong process engineering track record in Queensland, with recent projects including Burton, South Walker Creek and Collinsville CHPPs, Phosphate Hill Ammonia and Beneficiation plants, as well construction of calciners for Queensland Alumina Limited.

Ends.    

Released by Thiess Pty Ltd - ABN 87 010 221 486

For further information contact:
Mr Murray Fox
Thiess Executive General Manager
T: 0418 880 924

Mr Peter Halpin
Thiess Process Engineering Manager
T: 07 3368 0553

Mr Mitchell Innes
Pacific Coal External Affairs Manager
T: 0409 050 111

Ms Fiona Murcott
Thiess Public Affairs Manager
T: 0419 758 196