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Queensland govt feedback mission in mining strongholds

THE ongoing issue of farming versus mining has arisen as Queensland Deputy Premier Paul Lucas leads a state government delegation in a series of regional mining forums held in Dysart and Dalby, and culminating in the final summit in Mt Isa on Friday.

Blair Price
Queensland govt feedback mission in mining strongholds

The fact-finding mission by the state government follows August’s Sustainable Resource Communities Agreement which will provide $A100 million of funding over three years for economic and social infrastructure in key mining areas.

At the Dysart Mining Summit held on Thursday last week, Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said everyone had a stake in the long-term sustainable development of the Bowen Basin.

“This is about looking beyond the horizon and planning for the future of communities like Dysart, Moranbah and other mining towns,” he said.

“While we all enjoy the benefits of the resources boom, we won't turn our back on communities at the coalface."

At the Dalby Mining Summit held the next day, Lucas said land use in the context of the competing priorities of farming and mining was heavily discussed.

Local Government Association of Queensland president Paul Bell said he had heard strong views on the impact of resource industry activity on generations of farmers and families.

“It is also clear that councils need improved mechanisms to negotiate on key infrastructure needs,” he said.

At the summit in Dalby for the Surat Basin communities, Lucas said the information gathered would be instrumental in assisting the state government to understand and address the challenges faced.

The deputy premier also announced the extension of the public consultation period for the South West, Central West and Maranoa and Districts regional plans to November 30.

“This will ensure the feedback received at these summits is incorporated into the finalised plans,” he said.

The summit in Mt Isa, for the North West Minerals Province, will focus on similar concerns, such as social community, regional and local planning, infrastructure, land use and environmental issues along with employment, business and economic matters.

The Sustainable Resource Communities Agreement is a partnership between the Queensland government, the Queensland Resources Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland.

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