On Saturday 7 October, BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) celebrated 50 years of operations at Blackwater Mine.

Established by the Utah Development Company, the mine’s first load of coal railed in 1967 and since then, it has produced approximately 450 million tonnes of coal, which is enough to make the steel for 14,151 Sydney Harbour Bridges.

And, at almost 80 kilometres in strike length, it remains one of the longest coal mines in the Southern hemisphere.

BMA Asset President Rag Udd said ‘Blackwater Mine has played an integral role in the growth and strength of BMA and BHP for generations, and to reach the 50 year milestone is a remarkable achievement’.

To celebrate this milestone occasion, we hosted a free community event including live music, historical displays and children’s entertainment in the town of Blackwater to celebrate the occasion.

Blackwater Mine General Manager Ben Hiatt said the 50 Year Anniversary Celebration was a great opportunity to recognise the contribution of everyone who has been involved in Blackwater Mine over the last 50 years.

‘BMA and Blackwater Mine has had a long history in the local area’, he said.

‘We wanted to hold the celebration as a way of acknowledging and thanking our colleagues, as well as the community, for their ongoing support and dedication.’

‘Blackwater Mine’s longevity as an employer, community supporter and even local tourist attraction has seen Blackwater Mine become a true part of the community — establishing long-standing relationships.’

To hear more about the humble beginnings of Blackwater Mine and the journey the mine and community have taken hand-in-hand, watch Blackwater Mine: Celebrating 50 Years.