The expansion of a steel-making coal mine in Queensland’s Bowen Basin is set to support up to 500 good jobs as it clears its final hurdle.
The State Government has granted a mining lease to Anglo American for the expansion of its Lake Lindsay steel-making coal mine operations which, in turn, extends its mine life.
“The granting of this mining lease shows Queensland’s resources industry continues to go from strength to strength.
“It shows there is confidence from major mining companies that are investing in the future of Queensland’s resources industry into the future.
“Steel-making coal is one of our state’s biggest export earners, worth nearly $60 million in the 12 months to May this year.
“We need steel for construction, domestic appliances, automotive and mechanical equipment, and also for turbines to generate renewable energy on wind farms.
“I want to congratulate Anglo American for their continued investment in their operations in the Bowen Basin because it means hundreds of good jobs and a boost to the local economy for years to come,” Resources Minister Scott Stewart said.
Once fully operational, the expanded Lake Lindsay mine will be able to produce up to 5.6 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of steel-making coal.
The Lake Lindsay mine is part of Anglo American’s Capcoal complex in Central Queensland, about 25 kilometres south west of Middlemount.
The Capcoal operations is a joint venture between Anglo American (70%) and Mitsui Coal Holdings (30%) and it is comprised of both underground and open cut mines – including Lake Lindsay.
“Central Queensland has a long and proud history of mining and the industry supports thousands of good jobs.
“This is another welcome investment in the region and shows there’s confidence in the industry,” Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said.
Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Australian Mining; Anglo American (1, 2)