Leigh Creek Coalfield

The Leigh Creek Coalfield, situated approximately 550 km north of Adelaide in the northern Flinders Ranges, was a significant source of low-grade, sub-bituminous coal, commonly known as brown coal. Mining operations commenced in 1941 to bolster South Australia's energy independence. The open-cut mine extracted coal from several nested, bowl-shaped seams, each several meters thick. This coal was transported 250 km by rail to power stations near Port Augusta. In 2015, Alinta Energy announced the closure of the mine, with operations ceasing on 17 November 2015. The South Australian Government assumed full control and management responsibility for the former Leigh Creek Coalfield on 1 January 2024. The site is not open to the public due to safety concerns, including spontaneous combustion outbreaks and unstable ground conditions. Access is restricted without authorization from the Department for Energy and Mining.