Exciting potential for more mining in the north west

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson has announced that five potential mining areas would be opened up for exploration in the Mount Isa region.

Minister Wilson said prospective miners would now be given the green light to produce bids to mine in those areas.

“This brings to twelve, the number of areas in the north west to be opened up for exploration and potential development,” Mr Wilson said.

“Later this year we expect to announce the successful tenderers,” he said.

Member for Mt Isa, Betty Kiernan told State Parliament recently that she was most concerned to hear the federal Treasurer make reference to the mining boom as being over.

“I asked Minister Wilson to clarify the real state of play in Queensland and what steps the State Government was taking to ensure that development in the mining industry is sustained,” Mrs Kiernan said.

“I’m reassured that the State Government is encouraging new discoveries so that new projects can come on line. Today’s announcement of five new areas being opened up for exploration is welcome news for the Isa,” Mrs Kiernan said.

Minister Wilson said the mining and petroleum sectors contributed around $16 billion a year to Queensland’s economy.

“The industry represents 25% of total capital investment in Queensland,” he said.

“But individual mines have finite life spans and we need to encourage new discoveries.

“There are still a number of highly prospective, under-explored areas.

“That’s why the State Government is spending $20 million over four years on the Smart Exploration Program.

“We’re targeting high priority regions such as North West Mineral Province, Charters Towers – Clermont Gold Province and Surat Energy Resources Province in southern Queensland.

“These regions are known to have greatest potential for discovery of new geological data and show that our state is an ideal destination to discover new mineral and energy resources,” he said.

“On top of the $20 million for the Smart Exploration program, the State Government is spending an extra $29 million on the Smart Mining – Future Prosperity program which is about attracting investment capital to Queensland.

“All these initiatives play an important part in ensuring the mining sector has a bright future,” Mr Wilson said.

Media Inquiries:       Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819