Mine geologist on 'steep learning curve'
Posted
Updated
The mine installed a seismic monitoring system in 2004.
A geologist at the Beaconsfield gold Mine has told of his inexperience in geotechnical issues before a fatal rockfall two years ago.
Adrian Penney is the first of the mine's managers to give evidence at the inquest into the death of Larry Knight.
Mr Penney was the mine's geotechnical geologist when the 2006 Anzac Day rockfall killed Mr Knight.
He has told the inquest that when he started work there in 2003, his role was mainly focussed on gold production but he gradually turned to geotechnical issues which he was not qualified to deal with.
Mr Penney said in 2004 he thought "it was going to be a steep learning curve".
But he was able to consult geotechnical expert Michael Turner from Perth, who acted as his mentor.
Mr Penney has described how he helped install a seismic monitoring system at the mine when he and other managers realised in 2004 there was a problem with seismic activity underground.
