The Dendrobium Mine is located within the environmentally sensitive Sydney Water Catchment area. Ardent is fulfilling the specific environmental site requirements by employing comprehensive environmental control and monitoring systems.

Ardent Underground said it owns Australia’s newest, largest and most sophisticated shaft drilling equipment.

“The equipment to be used for the Dendrobium project has been specifically designed and built from the ground up using innovative technology that sets a new benchmark for mechanised shaft excavation. Ardent's capabilities are in excess of 7.0m in diameter and 700m deep,” the company said.

Ardent Underground is headed by John Zeni who has significant experience in the Australian shaft drilling industry. He has designed and built nearly every blind shaft drilling rig ever used in Australia. He is supported by a professional and experienced management team, complemented by a dedicated and multiskilled workforce.

The mechanised drilling and lining methods used by Ardent Underground avoid exposing workers to the dangers associated with conventional shaft excavation. The methods are believed to be among the safest and fastest way to access underground mines without interruption to mine production. Blind boring is especially effective in bad ground conditions by providing stability to the shaft during the construction phase.

“Ardent Underground’s commitment to safety and quality is reinforced by Quality Assurance, Safety and Environmental Management Systems operating to Australian and ISO 9000 standards. The company offers a full service to clients from planning and feasibility to rehabilitation,” Zeni said.

Ardent Underground has mobilised on site and will start shaft development by mid August with an anticipated completion date of October, 21 this year.