It is allowed to continue loading concentrate on site. Scheduled maintenance for the closed crushing plant is also allowed to continue. 

Mining trucks are able to be prepared for work while operations are suspended. 

The mine’s company CuDeco was issued a directive from the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, according to an announcement to shareholders. 

The existing report did not account for new processes happening at the site.

It did not meet requirements under the Mining and Quarrying Safety and Health Act 1999. 

The department inspectors determined the mine’s risk assessment was outdated. It was last reviewed in 2015. 

It’s sped the resignation of managing director Dianmin Chen.

The company announced in January he would finish in his role on April 30. But he on Tuesday instead, the day after the suspension was announced. 

The chief executive position has been filled by Mark Gregory, who has experience in the leadership of Waltz Group, and in mining, media and property. 

Mr Gregory said was an exciting project but a critical time for the company.

“Rocklands is on the verge of realising the dreams of its founders, and it will be incumbent on me to guide it through the last critical stages,” he said.  

 It’s understood the on-site general manager has resigned, with acting general manager Joseph Skrypnuik taking his place. 

Director-chairman Noel White also resigned last Thursday. The acting chair is Peter Hutchison. 

Mr Hutchison said the health and safety of the company’s workforce was the highest priority in regards to updating the report. 

“We will endeavour to address this issue as quickly as possible for the benefit of all our employees and contractors, and ultimately, shareholders,” he said. 

The company expects to mine immediately as soon as the issue is resolved.