Abergeldie to deliver twin blind bored ventilation shafts at the Havieron mine

Abergeldie is pleased to announce it has been awarded a contract by Greatland to design and construct two 450 m deep and 6.2 m diameter blind bored ventilation shafts for the Havieron gold-copper project in the East Pilbara region of Western Australia. The award follows Abergeldie's successful delivery of a Major Services Contract (MSC) and the subsequent Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) phase. As part of the MSC, Abergeldie developed the permanent and temporary works designs, established the project methodology and undertook the fabrication and supply of the specialised blind boring cutterheads. Through the ECI phase, the team worked closely with Greatland to optimise the project design and construction methodology while driving key procurement efficiencies, helping establish a strong foundation for successful delivery.

The VR2 and VR3 ventilation shafts will be developed concurrently, drawing on Abergeldie’s specialist expertise in blind boring and deep shaft construction. Each shaft will extend approximately 450 m below ground with a finished internal diameter of 4.5 m, providing critical ventilation infrastructure for mining operations. The scope includes pre-sink works, temporary reinforced concrete structures, fabrication and installation of permanent composite liners through the full shaft depths, annular grouting and fabrication of shaft covers.

Abergeldie CEO Mark Bruzzone said, “With a proven track record delivering some of the world’s largest diameter deep shafts, including the North Goonyella, Southern Coalfields, and Dendrobium Ventilation Shafts, Abergeldie is recognised as a leader in blind bore shaft drilling and the delivery of complex underground infrastructure. This project builds on our successful early involvement with Greatland and reflects the confidence placed in our team to deliver a safe, efficient and technically complex solution. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Greatland and delivering critical infrastructure that will support the long-term success of the Havieron mine.”

*The image used is illustrative of a blind bore project and is not from the Havieron mine.