Dirt, design and downpours: the Maules Creek Coal Mine landform case study

Authors: Bulkeley, E Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2615_46

Cite As:
Bulkeley, E 2026, 'Dirt, design and downpours: the Maules Creek Coal Mine landform case study', in AB Fourie, G Boggs, J Heyes & M Tibbett (eds), Mine Closure 2026: Proceedings of the 19th International Conference on Mine Closure, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-10, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2615_46



Abstract:
Geomorphic landform design is increasingly adopted to create safe, stable, self-sustaining post-mining landscapes that integrate with surrounding topography and drainage systems. While conceptually robust, translating design principles into operational reality often exposes gaps between modelling assumptions, construction tolerances, material availability and site-specific constraints. This paper presents a case study of Whitehaven’s Maules Creek Coal Mine in New South Wales, Australia, exploring where implementation diverged from design intent. Challenges included drainage performance, erosion control, material variability, constructability limitations and sequencing constraints within an active mining environment. It analyses how survey control, quality assurance processes and operational interface influenced outcomes, and how early design decisions impacted long-term landform performance and liability risk. A critical factor influencing landform performance was the exposure of partially completed slopes to severe weather events. High-intensity rainfall and extreme run-off conditions resulted in erosion in the form of rilling and localised slope instability where rehabilitation works had not yet fully stabilised. These events highlighted the sensitivity of geomorphic landforms during transitional construction phases and the need to manage exposure risk between bulk earthworks and final surface treatment. Seasonal timing also proves significant in the planning phases. Delays that push topsoiling and revegetation into less favourable climatic windows reduce establishment success and increase vulnerability to erosion. The case study demonstrates that effective geomorphic implementation requires not only sound design, but also careful scheduling to ensure landforms are stabilised prior to peak rainfall periods. The paper highlights opportunities that arose from these challenges. Adaptive management, closer integration between design and operations, improved construction verification and refined modelling led to measurable gains in landform stability and performance. It underscores the importance of early cross-disciplinary collaboration and realistic constructability. Key learnings centre on governance through internal inspections and quality assurance processes, reiterative modelling, climatic risk management, and embedding geomorphic principles into mine planning from concept to stabilisation.

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