VIDEO: Helicopter decommissioning removes towers at remote diamond mine

Liberty Industrial partnered with McDermott Aviation and HeliSpirit for the project (Image credit: Liberty International)

The demolition contractors used a unique helicopter-based approach to overcome the complex challenges of the site’s remote and elevated terrain, which meant the team was able to carry out the works in three weeks with no impact to other operations.

Approximately 15 specialised helicopter lifts were conducted, carrying around 10 tonnes of remote infrastructure to designated stockpiles for sorting and recycling.

Helicopter transport is not commonly used in decommissioning due to its higher cost and the complex planning required to ensure safety and efficiency. However, the East Ridge and Mt Evelyn site presented significant logistical challenges, with limited ground access and rugged topography.

This is the second time Liberty International has worked on the mine closure. For this new phase, it was initially engaged to undertake a feasibility study to identify the most suitable and environmentally responsible method, taking into account weather conditions, access limitations and environmental concerns.

To safely and efficiently complete the works, Liberty Industrial partnered with McDermott Aviation and HeliSpirit.

“We were proud to return to site after a successful and a multiple award-winning delivery of SP1. The heli works at East Ridge and Mt Evelyn are just one of the unique approaches we have undertaken as part of a broader above ground infrastructure closure program,” said divisional manager Brett Kirby, who oversees Liberty Industrial’s Western Australian operations.

“This approach was preferred for its ability to minimise environmental impact by removing the need for new ground-level infrastructure or track construction, while preserving the surrounding, undisturbed land. We’re extremely proud of how closely our teams worked with the client to deliver these complex works so seamlessly,” he added.

The East Ridge and Mt Evelyn Infrastructure formed a key component of Argyle diamond mine’s broader closure programme.

Following the successful completion of earlier decommissioning stages, Liberty Industrial returned to carry out demolition and remediation of both above- and below-ground infrastructure, including satellite dishes, support structures, concrete slabs and foundations.

Works included the safe de-energisation of electrical systems, isolation of switchboards, cutting of air gaps and the decommissioning of solar and backup power systems.

Hazardous materials, including chemicals and electronic waste, were also safely managed and removed in accordance with strict environmental and safety standards.

Located in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, the Argyle was one of the world’s largest diamond mines before operations ceased in November 2020. Following the closure, Liberty International was given the demolition contract by Rio Tinto.

The previous closure programme won the company a World Demolition Award for Industrial Demolition in 2024, as well as the Global Rio Tinto CEO Award 2023 for Safety and Excellence.