New coal mine takes key step forward

Queensland’s latest coal mine proposal - the $1 billion Olive Downs mine near Moranbah - is a step closer after been given coordinated project status.

Minister for State Development Dr Anthony Lynham said the independent Coordinator-General could now efficiently coordinate the environmental assessment process for the Pembroke Resources coking coal mine across State and Federal agencies.

“This marks the beginning of a process, including comprehensive environmental impact assessment, towards a development that could create more than 500 construction jobs a year over twoyears,” Dr Lynham said.

“When the open cut mine is up and running, it could maintain up to 960 operational jobs. It would operate for more than 30 years and produce up to 14 million tonnes per year.

“Most importantly, Pembroke Resources will encourage workers to live in local towns like Moranbah, Nebo and Middlemount.”

Fully developed, the complex 40 kilometres south east of Moranbah will be one of the largest coking mines in the world.

The project includes:

• coal handling and crushing facilities at the mine’s Olive Downs South and Willunga precincts
• a rail link to transport coal to the Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal
• a water  pipeline and power transmission line.

Dr Lynham said the Coordinator-General was expected to release draft terms of reference for the environmental impact statement in March.

“The Queensland Government is intent on creating more jobs in the regions, but also at the forefront of our mind is protecting the environment,” he said.

“I’d encourage people to get involved and make a contribution to the draft terms of reference when they are released next month.”

For more information visit statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/olivedowns

ENDS

Media contact:           Jan Martin 0439 341 314

EDS: Download high and low res map at the DSD media centre.