Most in the coal business are trying to put 2010 behind them and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. As this edition was going to press, several stories unfolded that have big implications for coal mining. Flooding in Australia (See News, p. 4) had interrupted the lives of many communities in Queensland as well as mining activities. Torrential rainfall and flooding have become a reoccurring theme for the coking coal miners in the region, but this year was one of the worst in 100 years. As the flood waters recede, Australian miners will take stock of the damage, but judging by the damage to railways, production could be severely hindered for months.
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