Australian miner
BHP Billiton has announced that it has officially opened its US$3.4 billion Caval Ridge metallurgical coal mine in a joint venture with Japan-based Mitsubishi, creating around 500 jobs in Queensland.
Caval Ridge mine will initially produce up to 5.5 million mt per year of premium quality metallurgical coal. The mine was delivered below budget and produced its first coal three months ahead of schedule.
BHP Billiton Coal president Dalla Valle said that the opening of the new mine in Queensland will contribute to
Australia's coal export industry.