Land release to spark mini exploration rush

More land in one of the world’s richest resource regions, the North West Minerals Province, has been opened up for exploration, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said today.

Minister Wilson said more than 3,600 sqkm of land near Croydon, north-east of Mount Isa, would be opened up to explorers.

The release of the land – Restricted Area 321 – allows companies to apply for exploration permits for minerals in the area.

“Today’s exploration leads to tomorrow’s mines and jobs. Not only that, the royalties we receive from mining help build our schools and hospitals, put police on the beat and teachers in our classrooms,” Mr Wilson said.

“We’re looking beyond the horizon and planning for the future by encouraging more exploration and more explorers to Queensland.”

Mr Wilson said the latest scientific data which came about through the State Government’s $20 million Smart Exploration program would help explorers discover the untapped mineral potential of the region.

“They’ll be able to use this data to better target prospective sites,” he said.

Nine separate areas are open to explorers. They will be released in three stages - 15 February 2009, 29 March 2009 and 14 June 2009.

“In the past when other areas have been opened up, they’ve attracted interest from local, national and overseas companies. I expect a similar level of interest this time,” he said.

For more information, or to obtain a DVD information package, visit www.dme.qld.gov.au

Note to editor: A PDF map showing the location of Restricted Area 321 and its subdivision is available.

Media inquiries: Minister’s Office 3225 1819