After years of meticulous planning, construction and determination, Malabar Resources is about to reach a huge milestone – the first longwall coal from the Maxwell Underground Mine’s Woodlands Hill Seam.
The journey started in July 2023 with the construction of the drifts using the drill-and-blast technique with a jumbo in each drift. The team tunneled an impressive total of approximately 2,670 metres.
The drift to coal was completed in late November 2024, and on January 2, 2025, Malabar Resources achieved a major milestone as Maxwell Underground cut its first coal to commence development of the Woodlands Longwall.
General Manager Rob Hayes said that marked the beginning of intensive underground development work to prepare for full longwall operations which included an on-surface longwall mini-build.
“The successful completion of the on-surface longwall mini-build in October 2025 was a critical step, allowing teams to assemble, test and refine critical components in a controlled surface environment before installation underground.
“Now, longwall components are being transported underground to be set up for operation. Key infrastructure including the overland conveyor, underground belts and the reclaim tunnels are progressing well, and all timed to be ready for first longwall coal,” Rob said.
Rob explained the Bord & Pillar operations in the Whynot Seam (the seam closest to the surface) has been continuing to perform strongly recording a record number of metres being cut per day during January 2026.
“The Bord & Pillar workforce has recently transitioned from contractor operated to permanent Maxwell employees, securing workforce stability, reducing costs and aligning with Malabar’s long-term objectives. Extraction is scheduled to commence in mid-CY2026, providing a step-up in productivity of the Bord & Pillar operation.”
The project is a huge win for Muswellbrook and the surrounding communities.
Rob explained that the commencement of longwall operations at Maxwell Underground is a vote of confidence in the region’s mining future at a time when certainty is needed.
“The economic benefits are substantial and enduring. Once construction is complete the Maxwell Mine will generate 430 full-time, long-term new jobs, delivering $86 million in wages into the local economy each year. The mine will generate more than $1 billion to $1.2 billion in mining royalties for the people of NSW over the initial 26 years of Maxwell Underground.
“Malabar’s commitment to local procurement means hundreds of Hunter Valley businesses, from engineering firms to suppliers, contractors to service providers, are sharing in the project’s success. With 99 per cent of Malabar’s team based in the Upper Hunter, the company is proud to further invest in the region and strengthen its commitment to the community.”
Alfabs is one of those local companies who came on board early on with Malabar Resources and Alfabs General Manager Mining Timothy Hilleard has put into words what many across the Hunter have been feeling.
“The Maxwell project is a pillar of certainty for both miners and mining businesses and it’s great to see another underground mine opening and operating in the Hunter Valley.
“Huge kudos to the Malabar team for getting the mine open and operating.
“With the recent construction of the Maxwell Mine, it should position the mine as a future large scale local provider of coal and provide employment and revenue for other local businesses for decades to come, which is exciting for all involved,” Timothy said.
Malabar’s focus on underground mining methods and metallurgical coal, essential to steel manufacturing, positions it strategically in global markets.
The Whynot and Woodlands Hill seams are just beginning. Once the first longwall coal is out, Malabar said they will ramp up to full production capacity, establishing Maxwell Underground as the Hunter Valley’s largest capacity underground mine.
“Malabar’s commitment to renewable energy projects and rehabilitating previously mined areas for sustainable activities including renewables and agriculture offers a pathway to create hundreds of additional jobs.” Rob explained.
“By employing underground mining methods, Malabar is demonstrating that mining can coexist with other land uses and community values.”
Malabar Resources Executive Chairman Wayne Seabrook said what they’ve been able to achieve wouldn’t have been possible without the workforce, their contractor partners, local businesses and suppliers as well as the local community.
“To the Malabar workforce, your dedication, skill and commitment to safety have been extraordinary. You are building something exceptional, and your professionalism and expertise are the foundation of this operation’s success.
“To our contractor partners, your specialised expertise and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in reaching this milestone.
“To local businesses and suppliers throughout the Hunter, your support has been invaluable. Malabar is committed to supporting the local economy, and we’re proud to work with so many outstanding Hunter Valley businesses.
“And to the Muswellbrook and Upper Hunter communities, thank you for your ongoing support. We are honoured to be part of this region, and we remain committed to being a responsible neighbour, a good employer and a positive contributor to the community’s future,” Wayne said.
“First longwall coal is just the beginning. Together, we’re building a world-class mining operation that will deliver for the region for decades to come.”
