Department of Tourism, Regional Development and Industry spokeswoman Zoe Russell told International Longwall News the government officials will be in Rockhampton today, Townsville tomorrow and Cairns on Friday.

Despite its location she said plenty of people in Cairns worked in the mines.

Regional Development and Industry Minister Desley Boyle said the announcement from Rio Tinto to cut 50 contractors at its Kestrel longwall mine confirmed the global financial crisis was hurting Queensland.

“That is why the government is committed to keeping the motor running in the economy by pressing ahead with our $17 billion capital works plan for 2009,” she said.

“The loss of 50 jobs in a community like Emerald could have a massive impact on families if we don't act quickly.

“The Bligh government will support those families in any way we can."

The flying squad – a mobile team of cross-agency representatives – was announced by Queensland Premier Anna Bligh last month as part of a program to travel to affected areas to offer support to displaced workers.