Geotechnical Investigation & Hydrology Program (Newcrest)

From September 2023 to September 2024, Tier 1 Drilling was contracted by Newcrest to execute a comprehensive Geotechnical Investigation and Hydrology Program as part of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The project, located in Central New South Wales, required a range of advanced drilling techniques and testing methods to gather critical data for the site.

The scope of the programme involved HQ and PQ core drilling across a variety of depths, with holes ranging from 20 metres to 450 metres. A key aspect of the project was the installation of Vibrating Wire Piezometers (VWPs) in all holes, enabling real-time monitoring of ground conditions and hydrological data. These installations provided Newcrest with essential information on subsurface water flow and pressure, crucial for both environmental and structural analysis.

To ensure thorough data collection, packer testing was conducted in several boreholes to evaluate the permeability and strength of rock formations. Additionally, mud/air rotary drilling techniques were utilised, which included Standard Penetration Tests (SPTs) and push tube sampling. These methods provided further insight into the composition and stability of the subsurface materials, ensuring comprehensive environmental and geotechnical assessments.

Tier 1 Drilling relied on its fleet of advanced equipment, deploying the Sandvik D712 and Hanjin 67 Multi rigs to carry out the core and rotary drilling operations. The project also utilised a 4WD 10,000L water truck to support the remote location, ensuring the efficient supply of water for drilling and sampling processes.

The combination of varied drilling depths, advanced instrumentation, and comprehensive testing made this project a highly technical and demanding endeavour. Tier 1 Drilling’s team worked closely with Newcrest’s engineers to ensure the programme remained on track, maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and environmental compliance throughout the operation.

This year-long programme will provide Newcrest with the vital data necessary to make informed decisions regarding both the environmental and geotechnical aspects of their project. Tier 1 Drilling’s ability to handle complex drilling operations, particularly in the field of hydrology, further cemented their reputation as a leading provider of specialised geotechnical services in Australia.