The Queensland Government has approved an extension to Stanwell’s Meandu thermal coal mine, 25km south-east of Kingaroy.
The approval for the mine extends operations by a 21-year term, unlocking a potential further 200 million tonnes of thermal coal to power Queensland homes and industry and securing the future of 500 coal workers.
Coal from the Meandu Mine is exclusively supplied to the Tarong and Tarong North coal-fired power stations which provide approximately 20 per cent of Queensland’s energy needs.
South Burnett Mayor, Kathy Duff said the extension was great news for the South Burnett region.
“The extension of this mining lease is a significant vote of confidence in the South Burnett and the hard-working people who call our region home,” Mayor Duff said.
“This project supports up to 500 jobs and delivers certainty for local families, businesses and communities that rely on a strong resources sector.
“Council welcomes continued investment in the region and the economic opportunities this extension will help secure for years to come.”
Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Dale Last said the extension sent a clear message to Queenslanders that coal-fired generation will continue to power the State for decades to come.
“The role of coal-fired power has a long future in Queensland, and I want every coal worker in this State to know that the Crisafulli Government supports your industry,” Minister Last said.
“Coal continues to supply over 60% of Queensland’s energy consumption requirements and the Crisafulli Government will back our coal miners so they can get on with the job of supplying homes, businesses, schools and manufacturers with the power they need.
“Coal is essential for energy security – when the sun doesn’t shine, the wind doesn’t blow and the batteries run dead – coal continues to power Queensland.”
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington said the extension delivered long-term security to the 500 workers at the Meandu Mine and those at the neighbouring coal-fired power stations.
“This extension provides certainty for hundreds of workers in the South Burnett,” Ms Frecklington said.
“It supports local jobs, providing certainty to families who call this region home, and to local business owners who can continue to operate knowing they are supported by a strong local economy.
“This is another example of the Crisafulli Government delivering for regional Queensland and hard-working coal communities by unlocking regional opportunities and building long-term economic capacity.”
