All production has been suspended as a result of the inflow event.

A company spokesperson told Australia’s Mining Monthly: “A water inflow event occurred in a section of the Cook Colliery on Tuesday March 7 2017. 

“There has been no injury or harm to people as a result of this event.”

The inflow was into one production section of the mine and large inflows of water have continued. The volume of water inflow exceeds normal pumping capacity.

“Additional pumping capacity has been installed to contain the water level,” the company said.

“At this time, the source of the water is unknown.”

Cook Colliery has an inrush management plan to manage the risk of uncontrolled water inflow.

“Protocols under this plan have been followed,” the company said.

Efforts are focused on dewatering the impacted area, after which a full assessment will be undertaken.

Caledon employs about 400 full-time employees and contractors.

“It is too early to determine the impact of the inflow event on the future of the mine or its impact on jobs,” the company said.

 

“Cook Colliery is engaging with all relevant authorities on the matter.”