Kevin’s Corner project moves forward

The $4.2 billion Kevin’s Corner coal mine in the Galilee Basin has been approved by the Coordinator-General, reaffirming the Newman Government’s commitment to boosting Queensland’s economic development.

The Kevin’s Corner project, by proponent Hancock Galilee Pty Ltd, proposes a 30 million tonne per annum (mtpa) underground and open-cut coal mine and other associated infrastructure 65 kilometres north-west of the Alpha township.

The project would rely on the railway infrastructure of the adjacent Alpha Coal project to transport coal to the Port of Abbot Point, Bowen.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the project would generate approximately 1,800 construction and 1,600 operational jobs.

“This government is committed to getting Queensland back on track and projects like Kevin’s Corner are crucial in boosting one of the state’s four economic pillars – resources,” Mr Seeney said.

“The flow on benefits for the state’s economy from this project will be massive. It means billions of dollars in capital investment and thousands of jobs for Queensland.”

Mr Seeney said the Coordinator-General’s report included an outcome-focused draft Environmental Authority which would require the best environmental management of activities on the mining lease.

“The proponent has committed to maximising local employment over the life of the project as well as implementing local training strategies that also support critical non-mining activity,” he said.

“They will also provide local businesses with fair and reasonable opportunities to tender for project-related business, ensuring the project benefits flow back into the local community.

“I am pleased this report has been finalised by the Coordinator-General and look forward to it receiving the Federal Minister’s approval within the statutory 30 business days under the EPBC Act.”

To address cumulative impacts on regional water resources in the Galilee Basin, the Report includes key recommendations by the Coordinator-General to manage water impacts through the relevant State agencies for the development and maintenance of a regional water balance model, local water quality objectives and a regional groundwater and surface water monitoring and assessment program.

The project would comprise of:

• two open-cut mine areas
• three underground mine areas
• coal handling and preparation facilities
• mine waste and water facilities
• a mine infrastructure area
• a light industrial area
• an accommodation village suitable for approximately 2000 employees
• an airport with a 2.5 kilometre runway, a 17.8 kilometre rail spur and an 8 kilometre mine access road

For more information of the project visit http://www.dsdip.qld.gov.au/assessments-and-approvals/kevin-s-corner-project.html

[ENDS] 31 May 2013

Media Contact: Kate Haddan 0418 373 516