Coal mine expansion proves Queensland is open for business
- First underground cutting at Coronado Global Resources’ Mammoth underground coal mine
- Expected to create 259 full time jobs over the life of the mine and generate significant economic benefits for Queensland
- Highlights the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to keeping the resources sector open for business.
In a vote of confidence in the Crisafulli Government, a new underground coal mine expansion officially opened today with the cutting of its first coal marking a significant milestone in Central Queensland’s mining history.
The new underground operations at Coronado’s Curragh Complex, located 14 kilometres north of Blackwater, will generate an additional 259 full time jobs.
The Mammoth Underground Project is the result of more than $165 million in capital investment, with coal produced destined for export to key markets in Asia, Europe and South America.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last – who visited the mine today – said this new operation highlights the ongoing success of Queensland’s coal industry.
“This is a significant investment by Coronado demonstrating the confidence in Queensland’s coal industry,” Mr Last said.
“The Curragh mine complex has been operating in the Blackwater region for more than 40 years, supplying metallurgical coal for export and thermal coal directly to Stanwell Energy’s power station to provide electricity for our state.
“The opening of the underground operations ensures future employment security and will deliver additional royalties and taxes to the Queensland Government to fund essential services like schools, hospitals and roads.
“Under the Crisafulli Government Queensland’s resources sector is open for business and we have an ambitious long-term agenda which will see new and expanded mining opportunities across the state.
“We will never take for granted the abundance of our resources and the value the sector delivers to the Queensland economy, nor will we take for granted the more than 60,000 people who are directly employed in the industry.”
Douglas Thompson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director said, the Mammoth Underground opening represents the company’s entry into underground mining operations in Australia.
“It marks our first foray into underground mining in Australia and underpins our strategy of delivering organic growth to increase production and lower costs,” he said.
“We have combined our well-established expertise and heritage in underground mining from our U.S. operations with industry leading local partnerships to deliver this mine.
“Mammoth is expected to continue our strong track record of realising value from our existing assets.
“We would like to thank the Queensland Government for its support throughout this project.
“The approvals we received were not just formalities—they were the result of rigorous review, collaboration, and a shared commitment to ensuring that this mine operates with the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and efficiency.
“The Government’s careful consideration and dedication to responsible resource management have played a crucial role in making this day possible.”
