Returning Country: MDM Mining & Civil Completes Smoke Creek Rehabilitation Project Ahead of Schedule

Mine rehabilitation is about far more than moving earth. It is about restoring landscapes, protecting environmentally significant areas and ensuring former mining and exploration sites can safely transition back into the natural environment.

MDM Mining & Civil is proud to have successfully completed the Smoke Creek Deconstruction and Rehabilitation Project in Western Australia's East Kimberley, delivering the works safely, efficiently and ahead of schedule.

Awarded by the Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration (DMPE) under the Abandoned Mines Program (AMP), the project focused on rehabilitating a former diamond exploration site located approximately 185 kilometres south of Kununurra. Situated adjacent to Lake Argyle a Ramsar listed wetland of international significance and on Miriuwung Gajerrong Country, the project required a thoughtful and environmentally responsible approach from mobilisation through to completion.

A Complete Site Rehabilitation

As head contractor, MDM Mining & Civil was entrusted with returning the site to a safe, stable and natural condition while coordinating multiple work fronts across a remote project location.

The scope included:

  • Demolition and removal of redundant infrastructure, including the former processing plant, gantries and camp facilities under a Class 2 Demolition Licence.

  • Removal of general waste and scrap materials, with suitable materials diverted for recycling.

  • Rehabilitation earthworks across the tailings storage facility (TSF), former camp area and existing stockpiles, carefully reshaping disturbed land to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

Working alongside Indigenous demolition contractor Thuroona Services Pty Ltd, the project demonstrated the value of collaboration, local capability and shared commitment to delivering meaningful environmental outcomes.

Delivered Safely. Delivered Ahead of Schedule.

Awarded on 6 March 2026, MDM mobilised to site on 11 May, with works completed ahead of schedule before demobilising on 9 June.

Delivering projects in remote regions demands more than equipment it requires meticulous planning, experienced project management, strong stakeholder communication and a workforce capable of adapting to challenging environments. Completing the project ahead of schedule reflects the commitment, professionalism and expertise of the entire MDM team.

Building a Stronger Future Through Mine Rehabilitation

Across Australia, mine closure and rehabilitation are becoming increasingly important as governments and resource companies invest in restoring legacy mining sites and protecting environmentally sensitive landscapes.

At MDM Mining & Civil, rehabilitation is not simply the final stage of a project it is an opportunity to create lasting environmental outcomes while working respectfully alongside Traditional Owners, government agencies and industry partners.

As a 100% Indigenous owned contractor, MDM is proud to contribute to projects that leave a positive legacy for future generations while demonstrating the capability to deliver complex rehabilitation works throughout remote Western Australia.

MDM Mining & Civil extends its sincere thanks to the WA Abandoned Mines Program for the opportunity to deliver the Smoke Creek Project.

Together, we are helping restore Country, one project at a time.


Looking for an Experienced Mine Rehabilitation Contractor?

MDM Mining & Civil delivers mine rehabilitation, mine closure, bulk earthworks, demolition coordination, crushing and screening, road construction and civil infrastructure projects across regional and remote Western Australia.

Whether restoring legacy mine sites or delivering large scale civil works, our team combines local knowledge, modern equipment and proven project delivery to achieve safe, efficient and sustainable outcomes.

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Creating Indigenous Employment Pathways in the Kimberley Mining Industry