Glencore’s Oaky Creek and Newlands coal operations have achieved the significant milestone of 40 years of mining this year. Over the past four decades, both operations have worked to achieve excellence and deliver outstanding results, with both having a history of open cut and underground operations. In recognition of this, each mine planned a series of events and activities to celebrate their anniversaries.

At Oaky Creek Coal, more than 300 enthusiastic attendees gathered in Tieri to commemorate four decades of shared history and growth.

The festivities began on a sunny Friday morning, August 25th, at the Tieri Shopping Centre, where the community came together to celebrate the mine’s rich heritage.

The event began with a heartfelt Welcome to Country address by Jonno Malone, paying tribute to the Western Kangoulu people, whose lands Oaky Creek proudly sits upon.

A traditional dance performance by the Western Kangoulu people provided a captivating cultural experience that set the perfect tone for the festivities.

The celebrations also featured inspiring speeches from prominent figures in the community, including Damien Wynn, General Manager at Oaky Creek Coal, Joel May, Environment & Community Manager at OCC, and author Ray Christison.

Ray Christison, whose book Top Little Town beautifully chronicles the 40-year history of Oaky Creek Coal and Tieri, shared insights into the book’s creation and the significance of preserving the mine’s legacy.

Copies of Top Little Town are now available for purchase at the Tieri Town Services Office for $10, with all proceeds supporting the Cancer Council. The book has also been generously provided to each of Tieri, Middlemount, Capella, Emerald, and Queensland State libraries.

At Newlands, an epic reunion was held at the Glenden Showground on Saturday, 14th October.

The event provided the perfect opportunity to reflect on the history of mining at Newlands, renew old friendships, recognise operational achievements, and acknowledge the dedication of the mining workforce.

With over 400 attendees it was an absolute success.

The day kicked off with site tours that allowed people to view the current rehabilitation at Newlands Open Cut.

Attendees then gathered at the showground to join in on the celebrations, which included carnival rides, a coal man and woman challenge, live music and delicious food vendors.

Jane Burnett, who attended the event, said it was a wonderful celebration.

“Thank you to the Newlands team and those involved in organising the Newlands 40 years Reunion,” Jane said.

“It was an amazing effort, and we had a wonderful time catching up with old friends and reminiscing about the 21 years we lived in Glenden.”

Glencore would like to thank all the people who have worked at either Oaky Creek or Newlands operations for their commitment.