$90m Isaac Downs coal project in QLD to create hundreds of local jobs

Stanmore Coal’s $90 million Isaac Downs mining project has been declared a prescribed project, taking the proposed development a step closer to creating hundreds of jobs as well as providing a regional economic boost to Central Queensland.

In addition to new job opportunities, this project is also expected to deliver ongoing long-term employment for workers at the existing Isaac Plains Mining Complex – with up to 220 workers expected to be transferred to the new mine.

“As we implement Queensland’s plan to strengthen our economy in the wake of the global coronavirus pandemic, project like this have the potential to play an important role for regional Queensland.

“Pending all necessary approvals and Stanmore Coal’s business plans, project construction could begin as soon as early 2021 with the mine possibly becoming operational in mid-to-late 2021,” Minister for Regional Development Glenn Butcher said.

Construction on the Isaac Downs project is expected to create up to 250 jobs and a further 80 new jobs once the mine is operational. Opportunities for local employment will include jobs in construction, transport and the supply of goods and services.

“Project proponent Stanmore Coal estimates the economic contribution generated by Isaac Downs for the region will be $2.5 billion over its anticipated 16-year life.

“A further $457.9 million is expected to be generated in economic contributions for the rest of Queensland,” Mr Butcher added.

The resources industry is one of the State’s traditional economic strengths and is a key element in Queensland’s economic plan for recovery.

“The resources sector has worked closely with government, unions and health authorities to continue its operations, maintain jobs, while protecting the health and safety of its workforce and the communities they live and work in.

“Ongoing investment in Queensland’s resources sector shows confidence in our resources, our workers and our economy,” Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said.

Declaring Isaac Downs as a prescribed project will allow the Coordinator-General to work with Stanmore Coal to ensure that all necessary approvals needed for the project are secured in a timely manner.

Project location (source: Stanmore Coal)

The Isaac Downs metallurgical coal project is located about 10 kilometres south east of Moranbah in the Bowen Basin.

“The project will enhance ongoing employment and community opportunities in the local district in a business environment affected by COVID-19.

“The prescribed project declaration will assist in securing timely approvals for the project, whilst providing high standards of environmental protection,” Stanmore Coal CEO Craig McCabe said.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker has also welcomed the announcement regarding the Isaac Downs project.

Mayor Baker said: “While construction and operational phases are likely to see workers drawn from a wide area of Queensland, we look forward to seeing economic benefits flow for the Isaac Region as well.”

“All mining projects must go through a robust and comprehensive assessment process but it is good news that this project is a step closer to coming to fruition.”

In January of this year, Stanmore Coal submitted an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to the Department of Environment and Science. This is part of a process that includes reviewing and responding to public submissions.

Source: Queensland Government; Stanmore Coal