Princess Freeway Morwell
In 2014, an unforgettable fire event occurred at the Hazelwood Coal Mine due to a nearby grassfire. The fire burned for nearly 45 days, leaving a lasting impact on local communities. To mitigate the risks of ground fires, a pit lake is proposed. This solution is considered the most effective way to maintain the mine void and ensure soil stability, minimizing ground movement within safe thresholds. The Hazelwood Mine void is extensive, approximately 6 kilometers long, 3.5 kilometers wide, and up to 135 meters deep. Its proximity to Princess Freeway and Morwell township underscores the importance of long-term safety and stability for the Rehabilitation EES Project, as unmanaged risks could lead to fires from unearthed coal and unexpected ground movement.
Geotesta has installed several extensometers and a GNSS system to monitor ground displacement and movement around Princess Freeway, with a weather station tracking rainfall intensity.
Recently, Geotesta upgraded to a new GNSS system with advanced technology. This integrated approach allows the client to monitor gradual, often invisible ground surface movements and potential risks, ensuring that assets in the affected area remain safe.