The paper demonstrates the advantage of the triangulated network (TIN) which represents the surfaces of faults and coal subseams and the enhancement of 3D block model which represents the complex geometrical interrelationships between faults and operation profiles, and provides the utility for presentation of the analytical results in appropriate context.

Moreover, it demonstrates the application of geostatistics to analyse the spatial variability of data values for each sub-seam and shows the results of the directional influences that may relate to the depositional characters of the coal seam.

The paper highlighted the importance of valid data input and its preparation phase gave tools to eliminate any unreliable data from analysis. The mining database accuracy is paramount in generating reliable predictions. A large segment of this paper was repeatedly spent in refining the data preparation for geostatistical analysis.

The semi-variogram models generated for the areas of interest can be used to identify the suitable borehole sample spacing by using the resultant range of influence and also using the search ellipse radius from the cross validation process. This can be an important tool for mine exploration planning.

The best linear unbiased estimator was applied and integrating it with a 3D block model it was used to predict the spatial variability with their uncertainties. The results and assumptions were cross validated. This analysis gives results that can be used to quantify the spatial variation of data involved with the positioning of the borehole exploration and can help budgeting for maximised profit.

A method of risk assessment based on uncertainty was described and can be used for mine planning about the assessment of deviation of qualitative and quantitative parameters of budgets.