Moreton partners up for Tarong Basin Coal project
THE proposed Kingaroy coal mine is one step closer to reality, with Moreton Resources entering into formal partnerships for the project.
Moreton CEO Jason Elks announced on Friday it would work with West Australian mining company Macmahon Contractors and engineering consulting firm Wave International.
"Macmahon will bring their reputation for outstanding teamwork, integrity and commitment to the environment," Mr Elks said. "In reputation Macmahon would be in the top three Australian mining contractors."
The selection process was rigorous according to Elks, and the announcement comes after nine months of negotiations.
As a small company, with less than 20 employees, Moreton needs to work with better resourced partners to get the project off the ground.
The partnership has not changed anything for Moreton's proposed customer, with Tarong owner Stanwell Corporation still adamant it will not buy coal from the proposed mine.
Community resistance to the project is still strong and a recent Change.org petition against the mine has already gained 200 signatures in five days.
The petition, which was started by Yarraman resident Ben Rankin, urges Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk to reject the proposed mine.
