In a presentation to the Queensland Energy Conference, Caledon said it would achieve growth in 2009 via the ramp-up of Cook, where it operates the only Magatar continuous haulage system in the country.

Caledon plans to lift run-of-mine output from 600,000 tonnes this year to 1.1 million tonnes next year. That total will be made up of 765,000t of coking coal and 135,000t thermal to produce saleable tonnage of 900,000t.

In 2009 Caledon will drive roadways from its new pit bottom drift in preparation for the first Magatar panel in the new area – away from the old workings.

The company also plans to secure four new cars for the Prairie haulage system and commission a new thermal coal reclaim system.

Caledon sees its long-term future in the Minyango development or further expansion of the Cook mine.

At Minyango, Caledon has 292Mt of resources, made up of 53Mt measured, 94Mt indicated and 145Mt inferred. The prefeasibility study has commenced for this project.

Caledon shares closed down 9% yesterday at 40c.