The scope of work included the sinking, lining and equipping of the 7.5 metre-diameter lined shaft to a depth of 501 metres, as well as the design and installation of the headgear. In May 2010, South Gold Exploration also contracted Moolmans to develop and equip a decline, associated lateral and ramp development, together with underground infrastructure and services. The total development comprised 11 800 metres. Shaft-winding operations were licensed in October 2010 and trial hoisting began the following month. The project differed from regular sinking methods in the use of the kibble rubbing-rope guide technique down to 160 metres, and in the use of two independent sinking single-drum kibble winders to the full depth of 501 metres. Also impressive was the fast-tracked installation of the headgear over a period of four days.
