In May 2010 Boart Longyear's 12-man drill crew completed the deepest exploration hole in Tasmania's rich mining history. The hole, located on the surface of Mt Black, above the mine, reached a depth of 2,584 metres on 5 May 2010. Drilling to this depth posed major engineering challenges that drilling contractor Boart Longyear was able to meet with its international experience and expertise.

No matter what location, what environment or what type of service you need, Boart Longyear's Drilling Services group is committed to providing the same consistent, superior service around the globe. This means you will get the same world-class safety approach, program and performance. The same highly trained capable and productive drillers. And the same well maintained, modern fleet of equipment.

  • Utilisation rates in 2010 rose to 75 percent.
  • The second half of 2010 showed price and margin recovery as old contracts came up for renewal.
  • With a continued focus on margins, contracting was very disciplined by not renewing some existing contracts.
  • Investment continued in optimising the fleet for more productivity, capacity, and safety. Organic growth continues to provide the highest return on profit.
  • The second half of 2010 required investment in materials and training to keep up with the growth that was experienced.
  • Expanded the global sonic drilling program in both the mining and Environmental & Infrastructure markets.

Drilling Services' revenue grew 47 percent to US$1.080 billion. Growth was seen globally in all regions. Utilisation rates were higher than in 2009.

EBITDA increased by 35 percent to US$191 million. Steady price and margin recovery was experienced in the second half.