The Feasibility Study is based on Coal Reserve and Coal Resource estimates released in April 2009 by Riversdale. The estimates revealed that the coal reserves total 273.3 million tonnes, comprising proved reserves of 181.3 million tonnes and probable reserves of 92.0 million tonnes. The total coal resources were 4.0 billion tonnes, comprising measured resources of 313.9 million tonnes, indicated resources of 720 million tonnes and inferred resources of 2,990 million tonnes.
The feasibility study was conducted in three phases. The study has confirmed that the project exceeds Riversdale’s required rate of return with a capital costs of $260m for Stage 1 and an additional $150m for Stage 2. The Benga Project utilizes 100 and 150 tonne off road trucks and hydraulic excavators. Mining at the project would be conducted by a mining contractor.
