Operation on a multimillion dollar copper mine in north-west Queensland has kicked off – boosting jobs prospects across the region.
State minister for natural resources and mines Andrew Cripps said the now operational $122 million Mount Margaret coal mine would create hundreds of jobs through its lifespan – including traineeships in Queensland.
Eight trainee truck drivers have already been recruited to begin work with Xstrata Copper on the mining project near Cloncurry, with an additional 16 trainees in different areas to be appointed by the end of the year.
“North Queensland and Cloncurry residents will see the benefits of this project through greater investment in regional communities and plenty of new jobs,” Mr Cripps explained.
Development and operation of the project is expected to create more than 600 jobs, including construction employment.
Mr Cripps said almost $500 million will be committed through the Royalties for Regions scheme to fund vital infrastructure projects in support of the region’s lucrative resource sector.
“Local communities benefit from training and development opportunities on offer near Cloncurry, and under the Newman government they will also benefit from better coordinated use of funds to provide improved infrastructure,” he commented.
Copper extracted from the Mount Margaret mine will be transported and processed at the Ernest Henry Mining operation – increasing annual copper production by 30,000 tonnes.
