The paper describes an R&D programme carried out on Filpak, a proposed means of gully support in stopes using backfill as local and regional support. Filpaks fundamentally comprise sheets of ductile welded steel mesh fixed in horizontal array at the ends of backfill bags. Following a series of lengthy trials in strike gullies at Moab Gold Mine, the units have also been tested in dip gullies at Tau Tona Gold Mine. Further tests are scheduled at other gold mines and a platinum mine. Among several claimed
beneficial features of the system can be cited the elimination of point loads at gully edges and possible savings in handling, transport and installation. The paper also comments on mistakes made and problems encountered in management of the programme.