Thiess Indonesia, a subsidiary of Thiess Pty Ltd, has been awarded a US$16 million contract for the site earthwork preparations and camp erection works package for the Martabe Gold Mine Project, in North Sumatra.

Thiess Indonesia was conducting similar works on the site in November 2008 when operations were suspended due to the effects of the global financial crisis and the sale of the mine by previous owners Oz Minerals.

This contract is the first works package to be awarded by the mine's new owner PT Agincourt Resources and heralds a recommencement of the mine's development., owner since recommencing the mine's development.

President Director of Thiess Indonesia, Roy Olsen, said Thiess Indonesia is keen to be back working on the project and see the project's restart as a positive sign for Indonesia's resource industry.

"Thiess' strong experience in delivering construction services to the resource industry in these remote areas means we are ready to mobilise people and equipment. We started with some early activities in October and are now increasing to full scale activities," said Mr Olsen.

"We have been delivering for more than 20 years in Indonesia so our operations are well integrated with local suppliers, contractors and labour. This also offers better outcomes for our client who is eager to see the project start operation. On top of our commitment to sustainability, the safety and efficiency of our operations are an essential component to delivering the project within PT Agincourt's timeframe," Mr Olsen said.

Thiess Indonesia will complete the initial infrastructure works which include bulk earth works, site preparation and embankments and a camp for 100 workers.