The most scrutinised and assessed resources project in Queensland history has been officially opened by Queensland Minister for Resources, Scott Stewart.
The historic opening of New Acland Mine Stage 3, north-west of Oakey followed a 16-year approvals process, and comes approximately a month after an Independent Review affirmed the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water’s decision to grant the project an Associated Water Licence.
New Hope Group CEO, Rob Bishop said the opening of Stage 3 is a defining moment for the region.
“Today is a moment of celebration for our workforce, their families, local farmers, landholders, business leaders and the local community,” Mr Bishop said.
“I would like to congratulate and thank the Oakey and Darling Downs communities for standing side-by side New Hope Group over the past 16 years.
“Today’s official opening is reward for their perseverance, patience and belief.
“I’m delighted the Queensland Government supported today’s official opening and I would like to thank Queensland Minister for Resources, Scott Stewart for his attendance and for performing the official opening.”
Queensland Minister for Resources, Scott Stewart said that it’s been a long history associated with Stage 3 and not only has New Hope has proven that the mine stacks up financially, environmentally and socially, but also assured them that it’s committed to employing locals.
“New Hope have a great track record here, where around 95% of the current staff are locals, which means they support the local community, and that local economy will continue.
“So, for our kids who are sitting in our schools today, there are real jobs for you either here, or in Oakey, because we know that when we have mines supporting our local communities it means those local communities thrive,” Minister Stewart said.
The first shipment of New Acland Mine Stage 3 coal is likely to leave site in August 2023 and local workers, contractors and local businesses will benefit to the tune of $1 billion over the life of New Acland Stage 3.
There are currently more than a hundred local employees on site at New Acland Mine and at the peak of construction, there will be approximately 600 local workers at New Acland Mine. Throughout the life of the project, the permanent workforce will be approximately 400 full-time roles, made up of Darling Downs locals.
