Drilling began Monday September 26 and according to Coffey principal engineer Arthur Love, there is a 10% chance of success.
University of Newcastle Coal River Working Party’s Gionni Di Gravio said the university had been searching for the convict mines for the past two years after recognising their historical significance as the first coal mines in the southern hemisphere, as well as the first profitable business venture of the early colony.
"The significance of the convict coal mines to Newcastle and the Hunter region is well-established. The mines were the birthplace of the city and the beginnings of an industry that still underpins much of our economic activities today," Di Gravio said.
