Announced at a gala event last Monday, Ashton Coal received the award for excellence and innovation in recognition of its efforts to protect the ephemeral flow of Bowmans Creek over its mining lease.

Ashton Coal is located approximately 14 kilometres, northwest of Singleton.

“This important industry award recognises Ashton Coal’s continued commitment to implementing the highest environmental standards across the operation,” said Ashton Coal Operations Manager Bill Farnworth.

“Unlike traditional creek diversions, which typically focus on engineering solutions, Ashton Coal sought input from other disciplines to help achieve both the environmental and resource-access outcomes required by the mine and regulatory authorities.”

The award-winning project involved the construction of two diversions mimicking the hydraulic, geomorphic and habitat features of the existing creek, to direct river flow away from areas affected by subsidence.

Construction was guided by the outcomes of a series of environmental and hydrologic studies, ensuring the diversions also provided long-term habitat for a range of native plants and animal species.

“Ashton takes its responsibility for the local environment very seriously,” said Mr Farnworth.

“We are pleased to accept the award on behalf of the many people responsible for achieving such a leading-edge environmental project in the Hunter region.”

Commenting on the annual awards NSW Minerals Council CEO Stephen Galilee said “the entrants were all of a very high calibre, demonstrating mining’s commitment to innovative approaches to solving problems and the pursuit of excellence.”

“These awards are an important part of our industry’s continuous improvement and will deliver improved outcomes for our workforce and their local communities. Congratulations to all of our awards winners for 2016.”