The Queensland Government has signed off on an extension of Stanwell’s Meandu mine, ensuring continued coal supply to the Tarong power stations and reinforcing the operation’s role in the state’s energy network.
The approval has secured the long-term future of 500 coal workers, supplying Meandu’s thermal coal to the Tarong and Tarong North coal-fired power stations, which provide roughly 20 per cent of Queensland’s energy needs.
Queensland Minister for Natural Resources Dale Last said the extension sent a clear message 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,” Last said.
“Coal continues to supply over 60 per cent 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.”
The state government said the extension will guarantee reliable baseload power from some of the nation’s youngest coal-fired power plants to deliver long-term energy supply for Queensland homes and industry.
“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,” Last said.
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,” 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.
South Burnett mayor Kathy Duff said the extension was great news for the 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,” Duff said.
“Council welcomes continued investment in the region and the economic opportunities this extension will help secure for years to come.”
