6 March 2026 The SANIRE Coalfields Branch invites Rock Engineering professionals to attend its upcoming Branch Meeting on 6 March 2026 at Evander Club.
This meeting will provide a focused platform for technical engagement within the coalfields Branch. Attendees will have the opportunity to share practical experience, discuss current operational challenges, and exchange insights relevant to regional Rock Engineering practice. The Branch Meeting aims to strengthen professional collaboration, uphold technical standards, and support continuous learning within the industry.
Following the tragic collapse of the Coalbrook Colliery in 1960, Salamon and Munro published their well-known equation for pillar strength in 1967. This equation became the statutory basis for coal pillar design and was later adapted for use in hard-rock mines. In the years that followed, further collapses occurred, fortunately without loss of life and the statistical database of collapsed pillars used by Salamon and Munro continued to grow. There are now 85 documented collapse cases, compared to the 27 available in the 1960s. It also became apparent that not all coal has the same strength. The Vaal Basin, for instance, is notorious for its weak coal. Additional methods of statistical analysis were subsequently developed.
07 July 2026 - 08 July 2026 The South African National Institute of Rock Engineering Symposium is a forum for Rock Engineering Practitioners to showcase their technical abilities and skills to the industry over a period of two days. Participants and Presenters network, share ideas, knowledge and practices, whilst learning more about the most recent innovations, trends, experiences and concerns in Rock Engineering. In an effort to respond to ideas coming from SANIRE members the 2026 Symposium will feature an opportunity for expanded participation in the programme through presentations.
The SANIRE Gauteng Branch and Free-Vaal Branch cordially invite members to their joint Year-End Function on 4 December 2025 at Stonehaven on Vaal, Baddrift Bridge, Vaal River, Vanderbijl. This annual event provides an opportunity to reflect on the branches’ accomplishments, acknowledge the contributions of their members, and foster professional connections within the SANIRE community.
We look forward to welcoming all members to this special occasion.
The SANIRE Eastern Bushveld Branch invites all members to join us for our Year-End Function on 5 December 2025 at Sunrise Serenity. This annual gathering provides an opportunity to reflect on the year’s activities, acknowledge the contributions of our members, and strengthen relationships within the branch.
The SANIRE Coal Branch would like to invite you to join us on 27 November 2025 at the Kriel Golf Club for our Year-End Function. This special event provides an excellent opportunity to connect with industry professionals, catch up with colleagues, and celebrate the successes and milestones of the year.
If you would like to take part in the golf activity, please indicate this when you RSVP. Kindly note that golfers are expected to bring their own golf club sets.
The SANIRE Western Bushveld Branch is pleased to invite you to its Quarterly Meeting for 2025, which will be held on 13 November 2025 at 15:00 at the Impala Bowling Club – opposite Impala Rugby Club (Corner of Tuin Street and Fatima Street), Rustenburg.
This meeting will provide members and professionals in the Rock Engineering community with an opportunity to connect, share knowledge, and discuss key updates within the industry.
We look forward to your participation and valuable contributions to the discussions.
Join the SANIRE Free-Vaal Branch for an insightful technical visit to the Videx Factory in Germiston! This visit offers a valuable opportunity to explore innovative manufacturing processes, engage with industry peers, and gain practical insights into Rock Engineering applications.
Don’t miss out — space is limited to 35 attendees, so be sure to register early to secure your spot!
Are you looking to advance your career in Rock Engineering? The SANIRE Rock Engineering Practical Exam is the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills, gain professional recognition, and strengthen your expertise in the field.
