Surat Basin News

Surat Basin

NEWS

INSIDE: Axe falls at New Acland as redundant workers named. PAGE 3

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suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

SNAP OF THE MONTH

◗ WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: The Dalby Devils U14 premiership winning side.

PHOTO: KAREN WENHAM

From the editor

IT’S been a trying few weeks for the employees of New Acland Coal Mine, with redundancy talks completed and 150 workers given their six weeks’ notice.

New Acland Coal Mine general manager Dave O'Dwyer said the mood was “pretty sombre” on site and while nothing we, the greater community feel compares to those directly impacted, it has begged lots of questions.

Questions surrounding the state of play of coal in Western Queensland.

While there is no denying the importance of renewables in today’s energy landscape, it is the co-existence of all energy resources such as coal seam gas, wind, solar and coal which stands the Surat Basin in a class of its own.

The continued prosperity of the region relies heavily on these co-existing relationships and most importantly, the people in power supporting them.

With the court of appeal review currently underway, here’s hoping some final answers are offered soon.

In other news, there has been a key focus on wind in this edition, with the $128 million Mannuem wind farm cleared for construction and expected to be operational in 2020.

Further to this, guest speakers from the company behind the $450 million Dulacca wind farm have spruiked the project in the first tell-all since the government gave them the green light.

Just like the versatility of the Surat Basin, this edition covers all bases, highlighting all that is great about the co-existing energy and industry landscape of our region.

- Carmen Miller

IN THE NEWS

Contents

New Acland workers made redundant.......................................3 Easternwell new state-of-art rig..................................................4 Expo event a must-attend............................................................5 Miles Workers Camp given green light......................................6 Kingaroy Wind Farm to go ahead...............................................8 RES answers burning question...................................................9

Labor and Greens align on Acland............................................10 QGC focuses on indigenous pathways.....................................12 Senex and Jemena complete deal............................................14 Renewables attract big crowd in Miles....................................16 RSHQ to tackle safety head on..................................................18 OPINION ..............................................................................20-21 PLACES AND FACES .......................................................22-24

The newspaper

The team

The Surat Basin News publishes every month and is delivered via the four dominant newspapers of the region: the Chinchilla News, Western Star, Dalby Herald and The Chronicle. It will reach the homes and offices of almost 50,000 people living, working and playing in the Surat Basin, connecting the business and mining communities throughout the booming region. Surat Basin News is a necessity. It was born out of a passion for Australia’s fastest growing communities – a passion for a region of unbridled potential and a future of vast economic growth and opportunities. The newspaper, professionally designed and regionally topical, is a must read for anyone associated with the exciting Surat Basin.

ONLINE: Surat Basin News has gone online to ensure our readers in every corner of the country have the latest news sent directly to them. Go to: www.suratbasin.com.au.

PURCHASE FROM: Newsagents in Chinchilla, Roma, Dalby, Gladstone, Moura, Toowoomba, Calliope.

VISION: Surat Basin News will allow local businesses to network and communicate with everyone in the 1200 sq km basin, providing unprecedented access to new clients and markets. It will give a revealing insight into major industry while lifting the veil on current and proposed developments. It will be there for each and every announcement shaping the region’s future while profiling the colourful characters.

GENERAL MANAGER Erika Brayshaw, Chinchilla Phone 4672 9921, email Erika.Brayshaw@chinchillanews.com.au ADVERTISING TEAM Jodie Williams, Chinchilla Phone 4672 9900, email Jodie.Williams@chinchillanews.com.au Greg Latta, Roma Phone 4672 9927, email Greg.Latta@romawesternstarnews.com Nicole McDougall, Dalby Phone 4672 5500, email Nicole.McDougall@dalbyherald.com.au

EDITORIAL Jordan Philp, Toowoomba

Phone 0417 915 123, email jordan.philp@suratbasin.com.au SURAT BASIN NEWS 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla Q 4413 PO Box 138, Chinchilla Q 4413 The Surat Basin News is published by Chinchilla Newspapers Pty Ltd, 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla Q 4413 The Surat Basin News is printed by News Corp Australia.

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New Acland inaction begs difficult questions

Thursday, September 26, 2019 suratbasin.com.au

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IN THE NEWS

â—— TOUGH DISCUSSION: TSBE CEO Ali Davenport talks with New Acland Coal Mine general manager Dave O'Dwyer about the future of the mine.

PHOTO: MATTHEW NEWTON

Redundant workers names

Axe falls at New Acland

THE AXE has fallen at New Acland Coal Mine.

Management teams across the various departments at the mine met with 150 workers one-on-one to tell them they no longer have a job.

The job losses have been foreshadowed for months, with New Acland management telling the State Government it would be forced to cut 150 workers and ramp down production if it did not receive its outstanding Stage 3 expansion approvals by September, 1.

Despite a Court of Appeal decision in favour of New Acland, mine management and its parent company New Hope Group have not heard anything official from the State Government.

New Acland Coal Mine general manager Dave O'Dwyer said people had been given their six weeks' notice, and would be leaving the business in late October.

"We were very hopeful that we'd get word from the

government in time to make sure this didn't happen, and continue forward with our full workforce," Mr O'Dwyer said.

"But unfortunately we didn't see that leadership come from our government and now we're going through these very, very difficult conversations."

Mr O'Dwyer said the mood at the mine site was "really tough".

"The mood as I left site this morning (September 17th) to come into (Toowoomba) was pretty sombre," he said.

"I suspect it will be that way for quite some time."

There was no chance to roll-back the redundancy process now that it and the mine's ramp-down process had begun, Mr O'Dwyer said.

He did say that if the mine received its approvals, it was possible it would ramp back up at a later date.

"The government still has the opportunity to get some good news out of Acland and we just ask them that they give us that

nod on our approvals and let us get about our business out here."

The State Government last week said it was reviewing the Court of Appeal's draft orders.

The court dismissed both grounds of the Oakey Coal Action Alliance's appeal, and found a 2017 Land Court decision recommending against the expansion of the mine was infected with an apprehension of bias.

The court ordered that applications for a mining lease and an amended environmental authority for New Acland Coal Mine's Stage 3 expansion be referred back to the Land Court.

New Acland said its submissions to the court would be seeking to avoid having to go back to Land Court.

Submissions from New Acland Coal and the Oakey Coal Action Alliance are expected to close this week.

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

◗ FIRST CLASS: The Advantage Light Rig Extra (ALRx) is currently being commissioned at Easternwell’s workshop in Toowoomba before heading to the field in October. PHOTO: Supplied.

Delivering for the CSG industry

New rig set to start work in the Surat Basin

Easternwell are redefining the CSG landscape thanks to new state-of-the-art rigs, with the first set to head to the field in October.

EASTERNWELL is nearing the final stages of delivering the first of three new rigs as part of a five-year contract to provide 11 well servicing rigs and associated services to Shell’s QGC business Surat Basin operations.

The Advantage Light Rig Extra (ALRx) is currently being commissioned at Easternwell’s workshop in Toowoomba before heading to the field in October.

Easternwell’s ALRx rigs are the latest in well servicing technology with integrated push-pull capability and a 50-tonne top-drive for increased rotary torque. Through smart modular design the ALRx will expedite natural gas well service work scopes.

Easternwell General Manager, Kyle Koziol said: "With the combined effort of our teams and the support of local contractors and suppliers, these rigs are going to be the best workover rigs in Australia and perfectly suited to deliver for our clients in the CSG industry."

"One of the newest modifications to this rig is the pipe handler which reduces the need for our crew to interact with

tubing and rods making operations safer and more efficient. It has also been designed to transfer equipment during rig moves improving the transport efficiency of the rig."

The company continues to build the second and third new rigs expected to be finished in December and February 2020 respectively.

Easternwell, a subsidiary of global service provider Broadspectrum, plans to increase its local workforce by 20 per cent and local procurement by nine per cent. These goals reflect the shared commitment of Shell’s QGC business and Easternwell to provide more opportunities for the local community and are set out in the contract for this work.

AMMA report highlights the need for 21,000 new onsite mining employees

◗ IN DEMAND: New report highlights demand for workers in the mining industry and the need to acting now to secure skilled personell. IMAGE: Supplied.

According to a report issued by the Australian Resources and Energy Group, AMMA, Australia’s mining industry will require around 21,000 new onsite operational employees by 2024.

The 2019-2024 Mining Workforce report noted that of those 21,000 – it is forecast that Queensland will require 5714 new mining employees, driven by a number of large coal projects coming online over the next four years.

With the fear of a skills shortage, AMMA chief executive Steve Knott said understanding future workforce demand was critical.

"Australia’s mining industry is facing new workforce demand at levels not seen since the previous investment and construction ‘boom’," Knott said.

"While demand across the next four years will be far steadier

than the unprecedented growth we saw in 2005-2012, it is clear that securing the pipeline of skills to support mining project growth to 2024 will be a significant challenge."

And while this employment outlook is extremely promising, Mr Knott noted that it was "highly conservative" given the report does not factor in the 153 prospective mining projects considered by the Department of Industry as ‘possible’ to proceed over this time frame.

"We have put forward the minimum likely number of new on-site workers our industry will demand over the next four years, based on projects already committed or very advanced in feasibility studies."

Thursday, September 26, 2019 suratbasin.com.au

IN THE NEWS

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Broaden your horizons

Expo a must-attend event THE 2019 South Queensland Energy and Resources Expo, to be held on the 16th and 17th of October at the Toowoomba Showgrounds, will showcase many important innovations and developments.

South Queensland and the South West region is undergoing a major infrastructure build, recognised as the largest injection of capital and technology delivered into any regional centre in Australia’s history.

From record investment into wind and solar energy, commercial developments, infrastructure and mining, through to major gas projects and pipeline constructions, the region continues to boom.

These are exciting times and organisers invite all to attend this innovative event.

The 2019 South Queensland Energy & Resources Expo will benefit those who have a desire to be more competitive, operate more efficiently, have access to world best work and operational procedures and for those who hold a desire to network and learn from others in their field.

The event is relevant to those involved in the mining and energy sectors, infrastructure, engineering and construction, transport and warehousing as well as service and maintenance for all areas of business and industry.

It is a key event for businesses and industry as we move into the next exciting phase of development across South Queensland.

There will be opportunities to meet industry operators and

â—— GAME CHANGING: The 2019 South Queensland Energy & Resources Expo will benefit those who have a desire to be more competitive, operate more efficiently, have access to world best work and operational procedures and for those who hold a desire to network and learn from others in their field. PHOTO: Supplied.

seek out career paths in many of those companies represented at the expo.

The growth and development of the University of Southern Queensland and other key private and public schools along with the $500M redevelopment of the Grand Central Shopping Complex in the heart of the city has brought significant investment into the city and surrounding townships and now is the perfect time to capitalise on this.

Not to forget the $40M North Point Shopping Centre Development, $16M Quest Hotel development and the $10M redevelopment of the Burke and Wills Hotel and a number of

other new accommodation properties plus a broad range of new eateries, all of which, prove that confidence in the region is at an all-time high.

The Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise organisation is a strong supporter of the expo and have put their collective weight behind the event by offering resources including a "Speaker Enterprise Evening� on Wednesday night, along with invitations to their members to attend and benefit from the networking opportunities.

Join us at this interesting and informative event by logging onto energyandresources.com.au and registering to attend.

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

Boost for region

Miles Workers camp given green light FURTHER stages of a $120 million workers’ camp, which will cater for up to 1292 people, is expected to be completed in Miles before the year ends.

After development was started in 2013, Room2move spent $10 million on the project, until approval ran out on April 15, 2019.

Only land acquisition, town planning, architectural, initial site works, central facilities, utility upgrades and detailed engineering design were completed.

On April 13, 2018, Room2move applied to the Western Downs Regional Council for a development approval for 12 months.

On May 23, 2018, the council denied the approval.

Room2move appealed the decision and took the council to the Planning and Environmental Court on July 26, 2019.

The council’s reasoning for denying the approval was that, at the time of the original development with the coal seam gas boom, accommodation had peaked.

The boom had since ended and the outlook for demand for non-resident accommodation in Miles was expected to deteriorate and there was no longer a need.

Judge Williamson QC considered the two points, however noted that a lot of information was based on projections and was limited, speculative and removed from primary sources so was entitled to little weight.

With the approximately 200 beds in workers’ accommodation in Miles at capacity, the judge accepted a surplus of accommodation was needed to provide for unexpected rapid spikes in demand and a failure to provide for those spikes could have a detrimental social impact on a small town.

Judge Williamson concluded there was a need for the prosed development and granted Room2Move approval for the project until July 26, 2020.

A council spokesman said the council was disappointed with the outcome.

“We will now take time to review the full judgement and consider its implications for the Western Downs,” he said.

Room2move managing director Paul Czislowski said he believed since Miles was recognised by the state and federal government bodies as one for Australia’s major “energy hubs”, there was enough demand.

“We understand the region is on the cusp of further development with almost 25,000 sq km being released in Queensland for gas exploration since early 2017, almost a third of it for the domestic market only,” he said.

“And in particular, approval has been granted for 14 petroleum leases between Dalby and Wandoan that will bring an extra

◗ GOT THE GOT AHEAD: Room2Move go to court and get approval for new workers camp. PHOTO: Supplied.

5000 petajoules of gas to market over 27 years – including 240 petajoules per annum during peak production from 2026 with projects like the Surat Gas project currently scheduled to be operational in 2020 which will be the biggest resources project since 2011.

“Overall we believe major project work is expected to average around $500 million per annum though to 2022/2023, we feel that there is a need for a facility such as ours to be in the region.”

Not targeted at specific projects or clients, it will provide the option for all teams to be under one larger, all-inclusive facility.

The new camp, named Archers Accommodation Village, will be in the preferred flood-free location behind the Miles golf course on Laycoack Rd and will support local employment, with the projected construction workforce of up to 100 people and the capacity for 70 local jobs upon project completion.

“Local support and employment has been paramount in getting this project to its current status,” Mr Czislowski said.

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IN THE NEWS

The Kingaroy Wind Farm will be about 32km west of Kingaroy, 13.2km south-east of Kumbia, and 28.5km north-east of Taabinga.

Jobs on the horizon

$128m wind farm to create 100 new jobs A NEW $128 million wind farm has been approved in the South Burnett Regional Council area, and will bring 100 new jobs to the region.

The Kingaroy Wind Farm will be about 32km west of Kingaroy, 13.2km south-east of Kumbia, and 28.5km north-east of Taabinga.

The development lot is near Jumma Rd, Ironpot,and will cover 502.316 hectares of land, with the closest residence being further than 2km away from where the nearest wind turbine will be.

Minister for state development, manufacturing, infrastructure and planning Cameron Dick said the environmental benefits were just as important as the economical.

“This project will deliver 16 new turbines and, coupled with the 123 turbines in nearby Coopers Gap, that’s nearly 140 turbines,” Mr Dick said.

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said the project added to the state’s numerous renewable projects, placing further downward pressure on electricity prices and taking us closer to our renewable target of 50 per cent by 2030.

“This project is one part of over $1.6 billion worth of renewable energy investment under way or recently operating in

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

◗ ANOTHER WIND FARM APPROVAL: Cooper's Gap Wind Farm is another wind farm close to Kingaroy.

the Darling Downs and South West regions, creating more than 1000 jobs in construction and 860 megawatts of renewable generation capacity.”

A spokesperson for Australian Energy Wind Farm said construction would start in March 2020.

“Once constructed the wind farm is expected to generate enough energy to power the equivalent of around 35,000 homes and will reduce carbon dioxide output by an estimated 150,000

PHOTO: EMILY BRADFIELD

tonnes each year,” she said.

“Wind farm technology has significantly advanced during recent years and the 16 turbines on site will each produce between 4-5.5 megawatts of energy.

“Before operations commence, we will be upgrading local roads leading to the site and delivering the associated infrastructure such as a substation.”

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IN THE NEWS

â—— ADDRESSING THE PEOPLE: TSBE General Manager of Energy & Infrastructure Lance MacManus with Steph Froggatt, RES Development Project Manager, and Daniel Leahy RES Wind Development Team Manager at the TSBE Enterprise Evening. PHOTO: Supplied.

Dulacca wind farm in spotlight

RES answers burning question GUEST speakers from the company behind the $450 million Dulacca wind farm project have spruiked the project in the first tell-all since the government gave them the green light.

Renewable Energy Systems wind development team manager Daniel Leahy has detailed the $450 million development and put answers to the question on everyone's lips: Will this mean lower electricity bills for the Western Downs?

Mr Leahy said, subject to securing finance and pre-construction approvals, RES hoped to start construction in the first half of 2020.

The project will include up to 56 wind turbines, battery storage and associated infrastructure, 7km east of Dulacca.

It will connect into the existing transmission network with the goal of making a significant contribution to the Queens- land Government target of reaching 50 per cent of electricity generated from renewable energy by 2030.

"The Queensland Government wants the Queensland industry to be cost competitive in the global marketplace," Mr Leahy said.

"Cheaper electricity will result in lower-cost agricultural and industrial goods and this should in turn increase exports.

"The faster we transition away from fossil fuels and towards

renewable energy, the faster we will increase our cost competitiveness.

"Renewable energy now receives more investment globally than gas, coal and nuclear combined, and the reason for this is that renew- able energy generation produces industrial scale cheap, clean, green electricity at a lower price than any fossil fuel equivalents."

Mr Leahy was unable to confirm how significantly the Dulacca wind farm project would contribute to reducing Queensland electricity prices, due to the nature of the wholesale power market.

But he confirmed that renewable energy would cost about half the price of the newest, most-efficient coal generation and was more reliable and needed no water for power generation, leaving no long-term land contamination legacies for future generations.

"I can say that in states such as South Australia, there is downward pressure on wholesale power pricing as more renewables enter the system, replacing gas generation," he said.

Several people at the regular Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise meeting in Miles raised concerns about the site after

the duration of the project.

"The wind farm's design life will be 30 years however it may be possible to extend the operation past this date, depending on the operational strategy applied to the wind farm.

"Subject to landowner approval and compliance with any other environmental and planning permits, it is possible that older wind turbines could be replaced by newer and even more productive turbines, but again this comes down the project investment strategy applied.

Mr Leahy said the concrete bases for the wind turbines would remain in place on the property and would be unable to be removed without the use of explosives, but was adamant fossil fuel could not compete on price of electricity and believed renewable energy in Australia was on an unstoppable journey to replace fossil fuels.

"Most of the farmers I have met would much prefer to host a wind farm on their land than host an open-pit coal mine or coal seam gas well heads and risk their long-term soil and underground water quality.

"With farmers desperate for irrigation water in the current drought, it makes no sense to use water to generate electricity by conventional fossil fuel steam turbines."

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

Feds hit back

Labor sides with Greens over Acland

◗ NOT HAPPY: Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan is not happy Federal Labor has sided with the Greens in an attempt to vote down a motion supprting workers at the New Acland coal mine.

PHOTO: MATT TAYLOR

"These hard working people have lived with constant uncertainty about the security of their jobs, and the ongoing viability of the New Acland mine," Dr McVeigh said.

"The Queensland Labor Government should be doing more to resolve this long-running dispute and put the security of local jobs first.

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"Oakey is a resilient community but after more than a decade of indecision around the mine's future and the added stress of many years of drought, the town and our region deserves the respect of the Queensland Government. They simply must get on with the job of clearing the way forward for local jobs and families."

Shell’s QGC business is about to launch a new portal to improve the visibility of packages of work for local and Indigenous businesses.

The Shell Local Suppliers Portal will be used

by Shell’s QGC business and its major contractors to publish expressions of interest for upcoming work packages.

To coincide with the portal’s launch, Shell will be holding sessions to provide information on how to use the portal, answer questions on local supply opportunities and identify how to create an effective profile for your business using the new system.

Session details are as follows: ●Tuesday October, 1 Miles: 9-10.30am at Royal Motel, and Wandoan: 4-5.30pm at Wandoan Surf Club. ●Wednesday, October 2 in Chinchilla at QGC information centre, Bell Street from 10-12 noon.

For more information contact qgccommunity@shell.com

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MINISTER for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan has condemned Labor for siding with the Greens in an attempt to vote down a motion supporting workers at the New Acland coal mine.

"It is to Labor's eternal shame that it has worked with the Greens to vote against a motion in the Senate which recognised the importance of Queensland's resources sector and the New Acland coal mine, and called on the Queensland Government to not allow its approval processes to be delayed by judicial activism," Mr Canavan said.

"The Labor-Greens alliance has given New Acland mine workers a collective kick in the guts.

"It is even more disappointing to see Labor abandon Queensland workers for the sake of keeping the Greens happy.

That is not a path any mainstream political party should start down.

"Governments have a critical role to play in approving mining projects in a timely way and should not be held hostage by those who seek to weaponise the law."

Federal Member for Groom John McVeigh echoed the criticism, saying local workers and the entire community of Oakey had been in limbo for 12 years.

Thursday, September 26, 2019 suratbasin.com.au

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

◗ FUTURE THINKING: Shayne Tull (left) and Michael Wiegell (right) are confident their jobs with Biodiversity Australia in the Western Downs will lead to further career opportunities. PHOTO: Supplied

Making a difference

Creating sustainable Indigenous pathways in the Western Downs BIODIVERSITY Australia’s Steven Noy is confident the Indigenous career pathways model they’ve just started in the Western Downs will have a lasting impact on the region.

Steven is Biodiversity’s managing director and founder. He started the business in 2002, looking to combine his two passions: better managing human impact on the environment; and providing meaningful employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians.

Over the last 17 years the 100 per cent Indigenous-owned company has grown and now operates across locations in the Northern Territory, New South Wales and Queensland.

Most recently, they’ve opened a workshop in Chinchilla, providing vegetation management services across the region for Shell’s QGC business.

There are now six Biodiversity staff working across the Western Downs. Steven plans to use this opportunity to grow their presence and employ more locals, with a particular focus on Indigenous employees.

"The fact that Shell’s QGC business invested in us over the long term gave us the confidence to come out and set up a base in Chinchilla," Steven said.

"What we now want to do is use this to create a local Indigenous pathways model, based on a long-term sustainable approach.

"We’re able to do that through the vegetation management work we’re doing for Shell’s QGC business, which provides an opportunity to upskill our people and assist them to obtain certificates right through to diplomas in conservation and land

management.

"That creates a pathway. And it’s not just a pathway with us.

If they’ve got entrepreneurial skills and want to become a contractor on their own, we can nurture them through that.

Also, the skills they’re learning with us are wanted by the various state ranger programs."

Shayne Tull is one of Biodiversity’s newest employees. He’s moved to Dalby to take up the role, which he believes will help him achieve his goal of becoming a ranger on Iman Country.

"I want to go into conservation and land management, possibly a ranger job down the track. This job will be a great springboard for that," Shayne said.

"Biodiversity can help me attain the certificates and tickets to allow that to happen."

Working with local communities for a better future COMMUNITY UPDATE

ª Shell Local Suppliers Portal information sessions

• Miles: Royal Hotel, 9-10.30am, 1 October • Wandoan: Wandoan Surf Club, 4-5.30pm, 1 October • Chinchilla: QGC offices Bell Street, 10-12 noon, 2 October

ª Future Makers STEM awards - submissions close 11 October

ª Future Makers stargazing event, Chinchilla - 22 October from 5-8pm

Email qgccommunity@shell.com or call 1800 030 443 formore information.

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suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

A done deal

Senex and Jemena complete $50m deal THE $50 million-dollar deal between Senex Energy and Jemena has reached completion following successful performance testing.

The agreement sees Jemena take ownership of the Roma North gas processing facility and pipeline and continue to transport Senex’s gas to market under a gas tolling arrangement.

The deal will be for 21 years ending December 31, 2040, and the companies will have an option to extend for a further 10 years.

Senex Managing Director and CEO Ian Davies said the company was pleased with the outcome and what it offers both parties.

"Senex’s broad natural gas development capabilities have been confirmed again at Roma North by construction and commissioning of the gas processing facility and pipeline to schedule and on budget," Mr Davies said.

"This transaction allows Senex to focus on its core competency of developing natural gas acreage while also benefiting from long-term tolling arrangements with flexible expansion options."

Earlier in the year Mr Davies spoke to the strong partnership the companies shared, noting both employed the key focus of considering producers and consumers in their operations.

◗ DONE DEAL: The $50 million-dollar deal between Senex Energy and Jemena has reached completion following successful performance testing.

PHOTO: SENEX

"Together, Senex and Jemena continue to deliver innovative and flexible solutions to bring more gas to the east coast market at prices that make sense for both producers and customers," he said.

"We are pleased to be developing Senex’s significant upstream natural gas acreage position alongside Jemena, a

world-class operator of downstream infrastructure.

"With low-cost expansion options designed into the facility and very competitive long-term tariff arrangements, this transaction will accelerate efficient recovery of Senex’s material gas reserves from Roma North and the broader Western Surat acreage."

Senex Energy reports progress at Project Atlas and Surat Basin

◗ The first five wells of about a 60-well drilling campaign at Project Atlas were reported as being drilled and completed.

Further to the completion of its $50 million Roma North deal with Jemena, Senex Energy had further progress to report in early September, announcing its Surat Basin natural gas development projects were on schedule and on budget.

The first five wells of about a 60-well drilling campaign at Project Atlas were reported as being drilled and completed.

The company also stated that net coal intersections of up to 43 metres had been recorded, with first gas sales expected in late 2019.

Managing Director and CEO Ian Davies said the results from our initial drilling program demonstrate excellent progress in the Surat Basin.

“Project Atlas is a top-tier asset in a proven and prolific gas-producing area,” he said.

PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED

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Thursday, September 26, 2019 suratbasin.com.au

Chinchilla

POSSIBLE LAYDOWN SITE • Situated on the edge of Chinchilla only 700 metres from Warrego Highway • Area – 10.5 ha (25.9 acres) • Both town water and 3 phase power available but not connected • Rural Land Positioned next door to industrial zoning and would make an excellent lay down area (subject to council approval) • The property has previously had DA approval over an area of 3.5 ha for operational works which has now lapsed • All fully fenced with 6ft security fence at main entrance • Mostly all cleared plus includes 1 dam

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

Talking point

Renewables attract big crowd in Miles OVER 140 business leaders packed into the Cultural Centre in Miles last week to hear about upcoming opportunities in the renewable sector.

At the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) Enterprise Evening attendees heard from RES Development Project Manager, Steph Froggatt who provided an introduction and update on the upcoming Dulacca Wind Farm project.

Ms Froggatt talked about the anticipated development timelines and shared information on how the project will provide local economic and community benefits.

There has been a Community Benefit Fund set up by RES with a commitment of over $1 million to be contributed which will be a direct benefit to Dulacca and Drillham communities.

The Development Approval for the project supports construction of up to 56 wind turbines and ancillary infrastructure, which will generate direct and supply chain jobs during the approximately 18 month construction process.

In addition it will employ approximately 5-10 full time staff during the operation and maintenance phase (expected to be 30 years) in addition to supporting further long term employment opportunities.

RES is the world’s largest independent renewable energy

â—— Ali Davenport, CEO of TSBE addresses the room at the Miles Enterprise Evening. PHOTO: Supplied.

company active in onshore and offshore wind, solar, energy storage and transmission and distribution, and is responsible for delivering the Dulacca Wind Farm in the Western Downs.

Western Downs Regional Council Cr Ian Rasmussen opened the event and highlighted the fact that our region is the energy capital of Queensland.

Ali Davenport, TSBE CEO was delighted with the turn out for the event.

"It was great to see so many people interested in this renewable project and looking to maximise the opportunities it provides for their business."

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IN THE NEWS

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

The RSHQ comes as 49,400 (96 per cent) mine and quarry employees in the state took part in “safety reset” meetings between July and the end of August.

Statuatory body established

RSHQ to tackle safety head-on MINES Minister Anthony Lynham introduced legislation to Parliament on Wednesday, September 4 to establish an independent safety and health regulator statutory body.

The Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ), the new body funded by a levy on resources companies, will include already-independent mining inspectors as well as excising safety and health functions currently within the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy.

It comes as 49,400 (96 per cent) mine and quarry employees in the state took part in “safety reset” meetings between July and the end of August.

RSHQ's proposed establishment stems from 68 recommendations made by the Parliamentary Select Committee into coal workers' pneumoconiosis and follows the deaths of six mine and quarry workers in the past 12 months.

According to Mr Lynham, the industry was screaming out for a regulator which was at an “arm’s length” to everyday operations.

“This separates the job of protecting the workers from the job of growing and facilitating mining and exploration projects and the resources sector as a whole,” Mr Lynham said.

“Queenslanders want to see a strong regulator, fully

◗ STATUATORY BODY: The Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) will include already-independent mining inspectors as well as excising safety and health functions currently within the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy.

independent and at arm’s-length from the industry it is regulating.

“That’s what the new RSHQ will deliver, with a sole focus on the safety and health of our resources industries’ workers.”

Under the new legislation, RSHQ will include Queensland’s mines, explosives, and petroleum and gas inspectors, as well as the Safety in Mines Testing and Research Station at Redbank,

near Ipswich.

It will also encompass the coal mine workers’ health scheme that covers mine dust lung diseases, including black lung.

RSHQ will report directly to the minister rather than through a department, and will be subject to monitoring and review by a separate, independent commissioner for mining and quarrying, petroleum and gas, and explosives.

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Thursday, September 26, 2019 suratbasin.com.au

20

OPINION

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

Western Downs Regional Council sets the standard ALI DAVENPORT TSBE, CEO

LAST week TSBE held an Enterprise Evening in Miles and over 140 attendees heard about the exciting new opportunities that will come from the Dulacca Wind Farm project.

Steph Froggatt, the RES Development Project Manager, provided an introduction and update on the upcoming development.

The Dulacca renewable energy project is an approved wind farm and energy storage facility located between the communities of Dulacca and Drillham in the Western Downs.

The development of this project has been led by RES who are a leading international developer of wind, solar and energy storage projects within the Australian and international energy markets. The construction term of the Dulacca Wind Farm will be approximately 15 months and the resourcing for this project will require around 120 workers at the peak of construction works. There will be opportunities for local businesses in various aspects of construction and if your business is interested in being involved in the project please supply your capability statement to dulaccawindfarm@tsbe.com.au.

After the project is complete there will be approximately 5-10 full time staff during the operation and maintenance phase, which is expected to be 30 years in duration.

There will also be educational support opportunities for the region and a $1.25 million Community Benefit Fund which is designed to directly support the community.

It’s wonderful to see the Western Downs fast becoming a renewable energy hotspot for Queensland.

According to the Clean Energy Australia Report (2018), Queensland renewables make up 9.5% of renewable energy penetration across Australian states and the Western Downs has more than $4 billion in renewable energy projects in the pipeline.

TSBE would love to see more renewable projects in the region get off the ground as they offer short and long term work as well as generating power for our homes and businesses.

Well done to the Western Downs Regional Council for their efficient development approval process which was openly praised by RES at the Enterprise Evening.

They are a great example of a Council that is looking to the future and are providing jobs and opportunities for their region.

They are open for business!

Lay the foundations IAN MACFARLANE QRC Chief Executive

IT’S hard to imagine Queensland without the resources sector. Mining and resources add value to every region across our state. Our industry also contributes billions of dollars to the budget bottom line.

To ensure our sector continues to deliver those benefits for decades into the future, exploration potential within the state must be developed.

Recent figures have underlined the importance of the resources sector to our economy, including the first current account surplus since 1975 largely due to demand for our world-class resources exports, and GDP figures showing mining is a bright spot for economic growth.

Queensland is already doing plenty of the heavy lifting to contribute to national returns with our exports of coal and gas. But Queensland can’t afford to take our standing as a resources world leader for granted.

Now is the time for further investment to lay the foundation for the decades ahead.

Investment in minerals exploration in Queensland shows there is huge potential for our great resources state.

The most recent exploration data shows a 12 per cent increase in mineral expenditure compared to the same time last year.

Queensland is in the sweet spot to deliver more economic returns from resources, given our substantial mineral prospectivity and a skilled workforce based in key regional centres alongside a network of supporting service industries.

The QRC is keen to work with the Queensland and Federal Governments on new incentives for exploration and project development to make the most of our opportunities.

Ongoing investment in exploration is the first step in reaping returns through more jobs, more investment in regional communities and more royalties in the years ahead.

Smart planning now will deliver significant benefits for all Queenslanders.

These investments will ensure Queensland remains a resources superpower for decades to come.

◗ Ms Davenport addresses the crowd at the TSBE Enterprise Evening. PHOTO: Supplied.

Shared landscapes CAROLYN COLLINS CEO GasFields Commission

THE GasFields Commission has just released one of the most detailed reports into the Queensland gas industry and its interaction with agriculture ever produced.

We decided to call it ‘Shared Landscapes’ to reflect the fact that two primary industries, gas and agriculture, operate side by side on the one landscape and both are important industries to Queensland.

The report took more than a year of planning, data collection, analysis and design work to complete.

We actually ended up capturing more information than we expected so the report stretches out to 117 pages of detailed data broken up into seven categories.

Where possible Shared Landscapes provides context in areas where the two industries overlap such as land use, economic contributions and water use.

First and foremost, Shared Landscapes is a very detailed report on the Queensland gas industry, we think the most detailed ever produced.

We’ve then included agricultural data to highlight common themes around water use, employment, land use and exports in particular.

The two industries are operating side by side and sharing resources in regional Queensland so it’s helpful to have a clear picture of what’s happening where the two industries intersect.

The challenge producing this report was collecting all the relevant data and then turning it into a document that is both informative and easy to read.

Statistics are collected in different ways by different people and different organisations so trying to find comparable figures that are relevant to both agriculture and gas was a particularly big challenge.

Shared Landscapes is available on the GasFields Commission website as an electronic flipbook, a full report or it can be downloaded as individual chapters.

Be aware, the full report is more than 20 MB in size and so the flip book could save you some internet pennies.

The time is now ANN LEAHY Member for Warrego

THE Palaszczuk Labor Government has run out of excuses with the long awaited project approvals for the New Acland coal mine at Oakey.

With the Queensland Court of Appeal dismissing the appeal on the Stage 3 development, it is time the Labor Government granted the final Mining Lease and the associated Water Licence.

The impacts of the Palaszczuk Labor Government’s inaction will be felt throughout the South West.

Every cattle and grain producer in South West Queensland should be concerned by these delays.

The New Acland coal mine has regularly railed approximately 50 train services per week from Acland to customers via the Western Queensland railway line.

If Acland stage 3 does not proceed, this rail use will diminish to zero, as stage 2 of the mine comes to an end.

This will result of a loss in revenue to Queensland Rail of more than $35 million per annum and will impact the ongoing viability of the Brisbane to Quilpie rail line.

For the railway line to remain viable and to continue to operate into the future, these costs will have to be borne by other commodities that use the railway line such as livestock and grain. The Acland mine heavily subsidises the Brisbane to Quilpie rail corridor.

The New Acland mine at Oakey is not the only closure that the Palaszczuk Labor Government is presiding over.

Without Acland Stage 3 approvals the Brisbane to Quilpie railway line faces the real possibility closure by the Labor Government, something Labor have been trying to do for years.

Not only is the local Oakey community on the brink of economic disaster from the Palaszczuk Labor Government, the inaction is threatening the Western Queensland railway line all the way to Quilpie.

Thursday, September 26, 2019 suratbasin.com.au

Preparing for home ownership JULIE MORRIS Residential Sales Ruralco Property GDL Realestate

WELCOME back to this month’s column, Spring is now upon us and I thought it was a great opportunity to outline things to consider when buying your first home, so you are properly prepared and ready for when your dream home comes up For Sale.

Being prepared will make it so much easier and less stressful for when the time is right for you.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Your First Home

Buying your first home is both exciting and nerve-racking.

There are a lot of thigs you need to know that you probably don’t but waiting for you at the end is your first real home.

Budgeting for your first home:

While you may want to set your budget according to how much homes are going for in your favourite suburb/town, this really doesn’t make sense. You need to plan according to how much you can borrow. Speak with a lending agent to find out how much of a loan you can take on.

They will look at your: ● Average income ● Assets and credit history ● How much money you have put aside ● Estimated ownership costs

Compare all of this with your after-tax income to see how much you can really afford.

Would you be able to handle a two per cent interest rate increase?

Or a tree crashing through your roof?

These things can happen, so it’s best to plan for them first so that you begin the home buying process pursuing homes you can afford.

How to get a loan?

Once you figure out how much you can spend, it’s time to get a loan. I n general, there are two options: A mortgage broker allows you to more easily compare lending options from different banks. They will compare rates and terms and help you find a loan that makes sense for you.

Applying to the bank directly would mean you would need to do all the leg work. This might be a good idea if you belong to a small community bank or credit union and you know you can get a good rate from them.

There are two stages to the loan process: Pre-approval – usually comes first and this represents an estimate of what the bank is willing to lend you. They won’t confirm your approval until they’ve seen which property you plan to buy.

Unconditional approval – usually comes after exchange, meaning the deal has been agreed to by both you and the Vendor.

At this point, you fill out a formal application and when granted unconditional approval, you’re all set to continue with the sale.

Ruralco Property GDL have an "open door policy", you don’t have to be in the market today to receive our monthly updates via email just give Julie a call on 0407 536 473 or send an email to jmorris@gdlrural.com.au to subscribe to our updates to be kept informed with market trends, new listings, price adjustments and recent sales.

21

OPINION

Act now to secure our future CAMERON O’NEIL Portfolio Chair for Economic Development & Advocacy, Facilities, Airports & Events

THE future of the communities in regional Queensland rests on the shoulders of no one individual, chamber of commerce, community group or local government, it rests with the collective Us. Population decline and the challenges that rural and regional communities combat because of the reduction in the number of people that make up our community is something we must work collectively to change.

In a recent big ideas forum hosted by Maranoa Regional Council in partnership with State Development, Santos and the local chamber of commerce, Australian demographer Bernard Salt highlighted the good, bad and ugly of the trends our communities are facing.

The message was clear that it is up to Us to work together, back ourselves and partner with both the state and commonwealth governments to back the communities that contribute significantly to Australia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

It is the partnerships that our local communities can have with all three levels of government that contribute to the sustainability of our towns and region.

The scale of many of our regional communities west of the great divide bring positive and negatives; having a real sense of

◗ CR ONIEL: “Investment into key community assets, liveability projects to attract and retain our people along with incentives will go a long way to addressing the problem.”

community because of our size is one true positive, but the lower numbers in our towns and region means that we can’t go it alone and it is the financial contributions from the other levels of government that are needed if we want a strong future for our regional communities.

Investment into key community assets, liveability projects to attract and retain our people along with incentives will go a long way to addressing the problem.

I haven’t been to a local chamber of commerce meeting or a community meeting with a travelling local or state member of parliament where a business leader hasn’t brought up the need for zonal taxation; a clear example of what governments could do to enact a quick incentive for the regions.

Local governments must also play their part in looking at what we can do to attract and retain people in our towns and communities; we all have housing stock sitting vacant in our regional towns, how do we fill them?

Western Downs is open for business IAN RASMUSSEN Acting Mayor

BUILDING a strong economy is at the forefront of Western Downs Regional Council's strategy for the region.

This is based on an efficient and strong business plan where Council's own financial strength is a key feature.

After much hard work and dedication, Council is widely recognised as being financially sustainable, which allows us to focus on building the economy of our wider region.

In the Western Downs we have a strong focus on financial planning and this in turn guides informed and accountable decision-making right across the organisation.

It's this 'open for business' attitude that makes the Western Downs a suitable and highly desirable place to do business.

Despite the Australian Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg's plea for businesses to back themselves and invest, large companies, businesses and consumers have shown trepidation to do so as they digest global financial threats.

Our region is at the forefront of economic growth, with some of the world's largest renewable energy companies investing in our region and generating jobs for locals.

At the latest Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise Evening in Miles, attendees were updated on how Renewable Energy Systems Limited - the world's largest independent renewable

energy company - will progress its Development Approval for construction of 56 wind turbines and ancillary infrastructure at their Dulacca Wind Farm Project.

The Jimbour Meatworks development is another example of business confidence in the region. Jimbour Meat and Bacon is investing $10 million to build a new facility which will provide 35 full-time jobs.

Creating a supply chain for both the domestic and export markets, Jimbour Meat and Bacon is set to capitalise on the growing red meat and pork industries, adding great economic benefit to our region.

On top of demonstrated investment in our region, the Western Downs offers a myriad of events and opportunities which display the unique talents, cultures and abilities, as well as the region's emerging and established leaders.

One such event was held on World Entrepreneurs Day where young, successful entrepreneurs inspired others in the community to pursue every possibility and opportunity.

The event featured local agricultural businesses as well as exporting prime products internationally, leading accountants and business mentors showcasing international entrepreneurship, and a very successful local machinery export, import, and distribution service operating worldwide from their Dalby base, using technology and innovation.

Why are we so Proud?

These entrepreneurs are locally born and bred.

They are passionate about the region and are ambitious and bold enough to be successful.

22

PLACES AND FACES

◗ TALKING RENEWABLES: Jamie Kennedy and Greg McMahon at the September TSBE Enterprise Evening in Miles.

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PLACES AND FACES

View the last edition The latest news online online Read our last issue at www.suratbasin.com.au

Keep in touch with the latest news with just a mouse click. www.suratbasin.com.au

suratbasin.com.au Thursday, September 26, 2019

Surat Basin News Published by Chinchilla Newspapers Pty Ltd 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla, Q 4413 Printed by APN Print Warwick General manager: Erika Brayshaw

Securing the future

Completed rail line to deliver grain, cotton and coal direct to port MODERN containerised grain, cotton, coal and other commodity freight will, for the first time, run down the Great Dividing Range when a $77 million upgrade to the Toowoomba rail line is complete.

The Queensland Government spent the past year lowering and widening 11 heritage tunnels along the range,to allow larger, 9’6” containerised freight train to run from the Darling Downs to the Port of Brisbane.

A further $37 million was spent to stabilise sections of the rail line near Spring Bluff.

The project is expected to be complete in time for the 2020 cotton harvest.

The two projects generated an estimated 230 jobs.

While the rail line had been used to cart coal and agricultural products in the past, with tunnels dating back to the 1800s, the tunnels were too narrow for modern container carriages to pass through.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the widened tunnels would benefit communities from Toowoomba to western Queensland.

“The Darling Downs and south-west produces almost a third of our state’s agricultural output, and it is vital we continue to support the jobs and businesses creates,” he said.

“The Palaszczuk Government is backing our producers and world-class exports with a more competitive freight system.”

Existing tracks along the tunnels have been replaced with pre-cast concrete slabs, which require less maintenance.

The Toowoomba range is a geographically challenging section of the state rail network, with the upgrades designed to make the range more resilient to wet weather and unplanned disruptions.

◗ ALL ACTION: Workers dredging gravel and sand to lower and widen an old train tunnel along the range to make them large enough to handle modern contain freight. PHOTO: TMR

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