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Proposed Kingaroy

Coal Mine

A Discussion Paper

Prepared by local Kingaroy residents

(Not for publication or for use other than as a discussion document)

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Proposal Summary:

Moreton Resources proposes to develop an open cut coal mine near Kingaroy to

supply coal to Stanwell’s Tarong Power Station which is 25 kms away.

Stanwell’s Meandu Mine currently supplies coal to the power station, and is adjacent

to it.

Stanwell has said repeatedly that its current business plan has no need for an

alternative coal supply.

As Moreton is proposing to replace the Meandu mine, it is proposing an alternative

mine and not a new mine.

A recent community forum (936 people) conducted by KCCG presented and collected

many issues of concern about the proposal.

The meeting resolved to ensure that the Minister knows of these concerns now, even

though the application to develop the mine has not yet reached the stage that requires

the judgement of the Minister.

Moreton has frequently said that it proposes to ‘fast track’ the project to begin

development in 2017.

Land holders in MDL 385 have now received letters from MRV inviting them to

begin discussions about acquisition of their properties for this mine.

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Post Forum Media Releases:

Moreton’s Coal ‘Too Expensive’

http://southburnett.com.au/news2/2016/02/moretons-coal-too-expensive/

Stanwell CEO Richard Van Breda

February 26, 2016

Stanwell has rejected suggestions that coal from Moreton Resources’ proposed mine near

Coolabunia would be cheaper; in fact, the change could cost the corporation millions of

dollars, says CEO Richard Van Breda.

Mr Van Breda said it would not be in Stanwell’s commercial interest to source more

expensive coal from Moreton Resources’ proposed project.

Stanwell has repeatedly said that it has more than enough competitive cost coal at Meandu to

supply Tarong’s power stations until the end of their economic lives.

Mr Van Breda referred to Moreton Resources Pre-Feasibility Study to the ASX on December

21, 2015.

He said this had included significantly overstated fuel costs for Tarong Power Station, which

in combination with Moreton’s own projected fuel costs, created a misleading impression that

their project could save Stanwell millions of dollars.

“The reality is that Moreton Resources’ projected coal costs are higher than Stanwell’s

current fuel costs so their project would end up being a liability for Stanwell if we

entered into a coal supply agreement with Moreton,” Mr Van Breda said.

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He said the Pre-Feasibility Statement included the following: “This project will only progress

if a long-term government contract is secured to supply our high energy thermal coal product

to a State-owned power generator for the first 20 years of mine life …”

“As that comment is presumably a reference to Stanwell, I should make it clear to the

community that over the past two years Stanwell has reviewed Moreton’s developmental

challenges and projected costs and I have met with Moreton Resources twice and written to

them a further three times,” Mr Van Breda said.

“I have advised them that Stanwell has no need for, or interest in, coal sourced from

Moreton’s proposed project.

“Moreton Resources’ recent Pre-Feasibility Study confirms the correctness of that

assessment.

“Developing a mine requires a significant investment in the approvals process, land

acquisition, mine infrastructure and fleet and would require a corridor to transport the coal

25km to the power station.

“Not only do Moreton’s estimates seem underdone in this regard, but why invest in

infrastructure when it is not needed as we already have a very well run and cost-

competitive mine?

“We own Meandu Mine, we own the infrastructure and the equipment and we have a mine

plan that provides us with the flexibility to compete in the dynamic and highly challenging

wholesale electricity market when conditions change.”

Mr Van Breda described Moreton’s claims that they could receive the relevant regulatory

approvals within 18 months as “unrealistic”, and suggestions the project would create

between 300-500 jobs as “misleading”.

“As an example of the complex and thorough process covering mining tenements, Stanwell

has been working on the approvals for a relatively simple extension to the area of mining

operations within our existing Meandu mining lease for the past two years,” Mr Van Breda

said.

“Sourcing coal from Moreton Resources’ proposed mine would require Meandu Mine,

which currently employs 400 people, to close, so the claim that the Moreton project

would create additional jobs for the community is unfounded.

“From a Stanwell point of view, maintaining our Meandu mining operations remains in the

best commercial interests of Stanwell and Stanwell’s Board, management and people will not

be distracted from focussing on this objective.”

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Moreton Plans To Start Seeking Permits http://southburnett.com.au/news2/2016/03/moreton-plans-to-start-seeking-permits/

March 7, 2016

Moreton Resources is beginning the long process of getting permits and approvals for its proposed Coolabunia

coal mine.

The company – which opened an office in King Street, Kingaroy, recently – also expects to be able to announce

the outcome of negotiations that began last year to bring on board project partners.

In a statement to the ASX on Monday, Managing Director Jason Elks said Moreton’s fully-owned subsidiary,

MRV Tarong Basin Coal Pty Ltd, was “continuing to advance” its South Burnett prospects.

“(This) means commencing permitting and approvals for a Mining Licence for a defined area of MDL385

and EPC882 within the South Burnett,” Mr Elks said.

“This will involve over the coming 12-24 months a number of legislative approvals processes and, as such, the

company will keep shareholders advised upon its advancements as this process continues.” .

He said MRV Tarong Basin Coal would decide over the next few weeks whether to apply for a ‘Co-ordinated

Project’ status through the Department of State Development, based upon the following criteria:

The project requires complex State and Commonwealth approvals

The project is proposed to be of strategic significance to the region, and the State

The project is proposed to have significant positive impacts upon the economy, and social environments of the

South Burnet and the State.

“Equally the company also has the option of applying for a Voluntary Environmental Impact Statement

approval, under Sections 69 to 72 of the relevant Act which if approved, would allow the Company to

voluntarily prepare an EIS for the project, without having to submit an EA application at this stage,” Mr Elks

said.“The company is currently assessing which option it will pursue in the coming weeks.

“The company is seeking to advance this important project while maintaining our fundamental

commitment to engage, consult and liaise with the community within the South Burnett and as such will

endeavour to continue to progress community consultation and awareness.”

Mr Elks said Moreton was confident about its options, either as a total export operation or local opportunity.

“There are very few operations in this market that could offer such low stripping ratio, costs and volume that we

think will certainly interest export off-take partners,” he said.

He admitted there was “reluctance” within the government-owned corporation (GOC) operating within

the Tarong Basin to engage (ie. Stanwell) however Moreton still saw a strong position for an alternate fuel

supply given the long history of “challenging and abandoned projects run by the GOC since late 1997″.

He also pointed to comments by Stanwell in 2013, which indicated it had cut 64 jobs and shut two power

generators due to cost-cutting exercises, followed by the statement that “the company is currently losing money

because coal deposits are too deep and operating costs are too high”.

“Whilst the running of Meandu Mine sits with the GOC, our experience tell us when your strip ratio gets worse

and your mining operation gets deeper, you will continue to struggle with costs and, interestingly, the GOC in

the last couple of years since those statements, has significantly reduced its coal supply into the power stations,

and government records clearly show the strip ratio is exceptionally poor for FY2015,” Mr Elks said.

“However, we continue to focus on our project, as long term any offshore option will certainly make far greater

returns for our stakeholders, both shareholders and the community which is where a large part of our focus is.”

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Community Concerns (Summary)

Economic:

Loss of royalties to Government due to land title variations. Estimate of loss of $7.5m

per year (equivalent of a $70m new Kingaroy Hospital every 10 years).

Assuming all Moreton’s claims of cheaper coal were true, maximum benefit to

electricity consumers of only $1-66 per quarter (based on Ergon figures).

Loss of long term prime agricultural land. Under MDL 385 alone, 2200 acres under

mine proposal would lose $1.4m/yr in agricultural production.

There exists a consensus that land values in and around Kingaroy will fall if the mine

goes ahead due adverse environmental and social factors associated with this mine.

Moreton Resources has stated that it has no intentions of voluntarily acquiring

properties that will be adversely affected by the mine. There is no provision in its

mine development budget to acquire such properties.

The mine is likely to affect the operation of the Kingaroy Airport and the industries

and enterprises associated with it.

There would be some short term creation of employment during the initial mine

development phase.

Environmental:

2013 University of Sydney study of the Hunter Valley regions suggests that the mine

would produce significant and serious public health problems.

Prevailing winds are from the mine and into Kingaroy.

The Kingaroy mine would be closer to Kingaroy than all other similar Hunter Valley

mines.

Dust has been identified as a significant problem. Most Kingaroy homes rely on

rainwater.

The noise and light from the mine will be significant

The community is already fearful of the entrapment scenario associated with mine:

you can’t sell and leave because of the dust and reduced land value, material impact

of the mine is below new dust trigger values, but you can’t stay due to the dust, noise

and stress.

The mine will sever underground water arteries. This is likely to affect bores that

irrigate from recharge areas near the mine.

Visual pollution will be significant. The 100m + pile of white overburden will be

clearly visible from most areas of Kingaroy and be in the field of view towards the

Bunya Mts.

The mine area is a known Koala habitat.

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MDL 385 and EPC 882

Residential areas

Prevailing wind

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Mine Site

How Close to Kingaroy?

The nearest edge of the MDL 385 would be

1.5km from Taabinga Village,

3.0km from the Golf Links Estate

4.0km from M10

4.5kms from Taabinga School

5.0km from Kingaroy Heights,

6.0kms to the Town Hall, and

7.0kms to Moore St

Subtract 2kms from the above distances if the mine is developed in EPC 882.

The town of Acland is 2 kms from the Acland Mine and was abandoned.

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Moreton claims to have cheaper coal

Moreton proposes that Stanwell’s Tarong Power Station should buy its coal from

Moreton’s Kingaroy mine, rather than from the current Meandu mine, because they

claim it would be cheaper.

Their PFS says $50 per tonne.

Stanwell can’t disclose its coal price because it has to bid to supply power to the grid

each day.

Stanwell’s coal price is COC and would reveal margins to its competitors

MRV is proposing to replace the Meandu mine with their Kingaroy mine.

There will still only be one mine.

Is Moreton’s Coal Cheaper?

Moretons PFS now quotes its coal as $50 tonne.

A company can’t claim its coal is cheaper unless its figures are substantiated by

extensive detail. This is not evident in the PFS at the moment.

To claim to be cheaper, a company must also know the cost of coal for its

competitor.

Moreton has not conclusively evidenced a cost of coal for Stanwell’s Tarong

Power Station.

Given that the coal from Kingaroy would need to be conveyed 25km to the power

station, this would be an additional expense for Moreton coal.

What Might Stanwell’s Coal Cost Be? Another approach

7% of Meandu coal market price is paid to Govt in royalties ($12.5M)

100% would be $178.5M

Meandu coal production fluctuates from year to year. Depends on units operating ,

maintenance cycles etc. (3.5 -5 m tonnes)

$178m / 4M tonnes would be $44.5 / tonne

Stanwell ran at a profit in 2015.

KCCG suggests forget it!

Other factors will rule this mine out irrespective of everyone's undisclosable CIC coal

prices.

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Limited Life of Power Station

Moreton’s PFS uses a 40 year life of mine scenario

But Tarong Power Station has an expected life of only another 15 / 20 years

There is currently an accelerating shift to renewable energy, even in Queensland

It is difficult to predict future trends and needs in the State Electricity industry due to

the emergence of new technology (Tesla batteries) and the changing nature of

international manufacturing needs.

Moreton’s claim to begin the mine in 2017 may seriously underestimate the time,

money and complexity involved.

The longer it takes to develop, the smaller the window of opportunity for Moreton

Resources to sell to Tarong because the end of life of the Power Station gets closer.

The clock is ticking and the window is closing.

Stanwell’s Response to MRV.

Stanwell says “no !”.

It has enough coal and a business plan for the life of the Power Station

If Stanwell did need extra coal, it has Kunioon as a backup.

If Stanwell says no, export would be impossible due to lack of rail to a port and it being

thermal coal not coking coal.

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Potential Benefit to Electricity Consumers.

Reliable figures from Ergon Energy suggest that even if Moreton’s coal was 10% cheaper

than coal from the Meandu mine, the potential benefit to electricity consumers would be in

the order of $1-66 per quarter.

Average Qld bill of $425 per quarter

$89 is for generation of power (21%)

$66-70 is for the coal in the power (75%)

Only 25% of power in the grid is from Tarong PS.

So only $16-70 in the bill is Tarong coal

Assume MRV was 10% cheaper

Saving of $1-67 Quarter (13 cents per week)

MRV stated a saving of $45 per quarter at a recent KCCG meeting.

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No Extra Jobs

The proposal is to replace Meandu Mine, and this is therefore a replacement mine, not

an extra mine.

Therefore, assuming the same operation at Kingaroy, it’s the same jobs.

HOWEVER, the claim is to have cheaper coal, possibly due to less overburden

removal, which must imply less workforce.

No other model has been evidenced.

There may well be FEWER JOBS (unless Moreton can articulate that its cheaper

coal model saves money in sectors other than labour).

There may be short term extra jobs during the initial development of the mine.

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Loss of Royalties to Qld Government.

All royalties from Meandu currently go to Govt. (7% of sale price of coal)(12.5m / yr)

Only 1/3 of MDL 385 would send royalties to Govt

Other 2/3 of MDL 385 have existing deeds that would direct royalties to the owner of

the land.

If currently land holders keep the land, they keep the royalties

If Moreton buys the land, Moreton keeps the royalties

If Moretons coal is cheaper, its 7% of a cheaper amount per tonne of a 1/3 the total.

That’s a loss of $7.4m per year before the project starts.

(loss of $12.5m x 2/3 x 0.9 = $7.4 yr)

Roma’s new hospital cost $70 m

The 10 year loss of royalties would be the cost of a completing a completely new and

much needed Kingaroy Hospital.

10 yrs x $7.4 m = $74m

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Public Health Research

(Avoid this scenario!!! Refer to Hunter Valley entrapment)

Moreton has so far made little public mention of the environmental and social hurdles

it faces to develop this mine.

The mine would be extraordinarily close to Kingaroy

Perhaps only Mussellbrook in NSW would similar. They have big problems which are

well documented by NSW Govt.

Muswellbrook has at least one coal mine about the same distance from town as

Moreton is proposing for Kingaroy.

https://sydney.edu.au/medicine/research/units/boden/PDF_Mining_Report_FINAL_O

ctober_2012.pdf

The following data was taken from “Health and Social Harms of Coal Mining in

Local Communities: Spotlight on the Hunter Region”

Prepared by the Health and Sustainability Unit, The University of Sydney.

The report presents a review of the international peer reviewed health literature and

selected reports from relevant government and non‐government organisations

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Public Health Research (cont.)

Health Effects in Adults:

Higher death rates from lung, throat and bladder cancer

Higher death rates from heart, respiratory and kidney diseases

Higher rates of lung disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, stroke, heart attack,

asthma and skin cancer

Increased hospitalisations from certain diseases

Reduced quality of life

Health Effects in Children

Increased respiratory symptoms such as wheezing and coughing - resulting in

increased school absences

Increased asthma rates

High blood levels of heavy metals (eg. lead and cadmium – can impair brain

development, cause kidney damage etc.)

Impaired growth and neurological (nervous system) development

Health Effects in Infants

Impaired fetal growth and development

Higher rates of birth defects, including neural tube defects

Greater chance of being a low birth weight (increases future risk of obesity, diabetes

and heart disease)

Higher rates of preterm birth, miscarriages and stillbirths

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6(b) Blasting and Toxic Plumes

(photo below of a blast gone wrong in Singleton 2013)

2013 Blast data:

• 2652 blasts in Hunter Valley

• 73% of blasts – No fume

• 98% of blasts – Less than a level 2 (level 2 is relatively insignificant fume)

• 2% (53 blasts) above level 2

• Two blasts that rated 5 (highest fume level)

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Stanwell currently advises residents around the Meandu mine that is going to blast.

It could be assumed that all of Kingaroy and surrounds would be similarly advised if

Moreton's mine were to operate with similar environmental license.

Also, if potentially affected residents have a particular health issue that could be

aggravated by a mine, they are usually obliged to buy out, compensate or relocate

such residents.

Costing and time constraints for such things does not appear in the PFS

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Noise

Coal mines produce a lot of noise.

Trucks, blasting, machinery.

During certain times, the noise is more obvious than others.

Consider a still nights when machinery is on top of an overburden mound.

Residents at Tanguringie Lakes can hear the Meandu mine even with windows closed

and TV on.

Singleton and Mussellbrook have a constant background noise problem. They are

further from the nearest mine than Kingaroy would be from the MRV mine.

A vow to reduce noise in an EIS statement does not eliminate noise.

Lights

The light pollution from mines is very severe, especially if just 5 kms from a town

Efforts to minimise light from mines is rarely successful.

Promises to reduce and monitor light don’t eliminate light!

The mine will be highly visible from many areas around Kingaroy, and especially

from houses uphill from Haly St

There is much direct (unshaded) light emanating from the pits and on top of the pits

Visual Amenity

When viewing the Bunya Mts from Freeman Ct or Ivy St, the mine will be in full

view.

When mining begins, and the pit is 1.5km x 3.5km x 150m deep, the equivalent

amount of white overburden will be added above current ground level on the site.

The following photos indicate what a 100m high pile would look like from Kingaroy.

It assumes the 100m high pile would start from the lowest possible point and that

overburden from higher areas will be pushed to lower areas.

It is a modest assumption, eliminates the top 20 m of overburden, eliminates 20%

expansion of soil during digging, and assumes that all 120+ m of overburden from the

higher areas is transported to the lower areas.

It assumes that although the pit is 150 m deep, that the overburden is restricted to

100m and stacked from the lowest contour of the mine.

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Mine Pit

Overburden for removal

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Overburden from Fisher St

Overburden from Cowie Dr

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Property Values

Moreton has not produced any statement of evidence to suggest that land values will

not fall due to environmental factors of light, noise, dust, and visual pollution

If the coal is cheaper, and the workforce smaller, then a further downward pressure on

property prices may be experienced.

There may be a need for short term housing during the development phase of the

mine.

Claims that land values will rise because they did last time can be dismissed because

that was for a new mine and associated industry in 1984 (not a substitute)and it was

out at Tarong (not next to town).

Can’t sell and leave and also can’t stay.

Refer Hunter Valley entrapment article

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Loss of Prime Agricultural Land

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Loss of Prime Agricultural Land

The mine is proposed to be built on prime agricultural land

It is certified as Strategic Cropping Land (SCL)

Farms in the MDL currently average 1.4 Tonnes per acre for wheat, peanuts, and corn

@ av $300 tonne @ 1.5 crops per year.

On the MDL 385 there are 2200 acres (10km2 )

That is a loss of agricultural production of $1.4m / yr

(1.4 x $300 x 1.5 x 2200 = $1.4m / yr)

Multiply by 20 or 40 for life of mine, and multiply again by something for whole of

mine area.

There is very little land anywhere more beautiful or productive than the land proposed

to be mined.

Potential Employment Changes

If the coal is cheaper, then the labour force will be smaller.

No evidence to the contrary has been produced by Moreton

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Land Acquisitions

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Land Acquisitions (cont.)

Stanwell example: (Kunioon mine) Kunioon landholders were offered voluntary acquisition of their properties if they

were seriously affected by the operation of the mine, or by environmental factors of

dust, noise etc.

They were paid the fair market value of their properties.

The section below is from the Moreton PFS

No mention of land acquisitions so far in Moreton media releases

Major issue for many local people

Consider just MDL 385:

30 farms @ $2 M (mine and buffer) = $60m

Min. 50 residential properties @ $0.4 m = $20m

Total Cost of Land Resumptions: = $80 m

Based on the experience of the land acquisitions for the Kunioon Mine, these land

resumption for the Moreton Resources mine would cause severe social upheaval.

If this figure of at least $80m has been included in the MRV $45.8M component of

total mine development cost, then……

…it could indicate that MRV has no intention of voluntarily acquiring properties in,

near or affected by this mine.

MRV says that people can stay in or near the mine while it is in operation.

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Kingaroy Airport

The airport is operated by SBRC, who have first responsibility for its operation and

safety.

CASA can instruct SBRC to change its manner of operation to ensure safe aircraft

use.

New issues for safe use will include: lights, dust, blasting, 100m high pile of

overburden at the end of the runway.

Consider also the observatory and gliding enterprises.

Native Fauna and Flora

This is an important and very time consuming issue.

If fast tracked, a superficial study and agreement may result.

The area is known for its plentiful artefacts that are regularly found.

A comprehensive walk through, negotiations with traditional owners, and agreements

all take much time if done well.

Know habitats for koala

Goodger swamp

Black breasted button qual in areas?

Baseline studies needed

Complete destruction is likely.

Will become a Federal issue.

Underground Water

Cutting a hole 150 m deep will sever all know water arteries and lower the water

table.

Bellbird Rd Spring: 120 years of beautiful drinking water for all of the Kingaroy area.

Goodger swamp becomes Goodger mine.

Recharge area for Barkers Ck irrigation.

Effect on Stuart River catchment.

Effect on Gordonbrook Dam, (Kingaroy water suppy)

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Statements from the Local Community

KCCG has given a commitment to local residents that they would collect and collate all

issues raised about this proposal, and present it to:

1. Qld Government Ministers and Shadow Ministers

2. The new Mayor of Kingaroy

3. Moreton Resources

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James Barclay: Kingaroy Observatory

I have on good authority, that if Moreton Resources do not abide by the rules and regs laid

down by CASA,'s Manual of Standards 139 - Section 9.1 and 9.21 re lighting, they will take

action, as the mine lights will impinge on aircraft landing and taking off, as the mine site is

only 4kms from the centre of the airport. Not only that, its dust will also affect aircraft engine

intakes. So much so, the RFDS is also concerned and no doubt they too, will be lobbying on a

State and Federal level. Personally, I can't see this 'mine' getting off the table, but look what

happened when New Hope Mine gave a huge donation to the then LNP, which gave them the

green light to go. It killed off the town of Acland. Are we next???

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MORETON RESOURCES. PROPOSED COAL MINE (from SB Times)

G.W. Ebbage,

I would like to pass comment on the coal mine now being strongly proposed by Moreton

Resources to be located just a few kilometres south of Kingaroy, with construction to start in

2018. Their proposal is outlined in a Pre-Feasability Study (PFS) submitted to the Australian

Stock Exchange dated 21/12/2015. The page numbers below, eg. (p7), refer to this PFS.

This company intends producing 220 million tonnes of saleable coal at 5.5mtpa (million

tonnes per annum), over a mine life of 42 years (p3). This will require a hole measuring

approximately 1.5 km by 3.5 km (p6) and about 150m (500 feet) deep, (p7).

To produce 220 million tonnes for sale, with an ash content of 28% (p1) requires approx. 290

million tonnes of raw material at 7.2 mtpa which has an average ash content of 45%, (p6).

At an assumed strip ratio of 4 (p1) this will require the removal of approx. 1200 million

tonnes of rock and soil overburden to expose the coal seam.

The whole operation, both coal and overburden removal, is proposed to be accomplished

mainly by trucks and shovels,(p7). As the storage of explosives on site is planned (p10), their

use must be assumed, as is the possible use of draglines (p30).

The company emphasises their intention to use a dry separation process (p8) to separate ash

from the coal, so negating the use of washwater. This appears to be their only reference to

dust collection. There appears to be no provision for dust control on any other equipment

such as trucks, conveyers, hoppers etc.

My greatest concern, besides the loss of prime agricultural land, is the massive amount of

soil, rock and coal dust that this operation must produce, as well as the effect that these

operations must have on the ground water and the neighbouring properties.

The process diagram (p7) shows the plant being loaded from an open tipper truck. No

mention is made on the diagram for dust containment.

The diagram and photograph of the dry process ash separator (p8) shows the processor loaded

by conveyor. No mention is made as to how dust is controlled or how the ash is deposited

elsewhere on the site, presumably by front end loader. As a rough estimate, to load 7.2 mpta

of raw material into the separator working 52 weeks per year 24/7 with a large end loader or

such requires a 10 tonne load every 45 seconds FOR 42 YEARS. This will probably be a

major generator of dust.

As for overburden, I would think it would be impossible to remove, presumably involving

explosives, without a massive amount of dust being generated. With a strip ratio of 4, this

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means a 10 tonne bucket load into trucks every 11 seconds FOR 42 YEARS. To believe that

this rate of loading will produce negligible dust is unrealistic.

The rates combined represent an excavation rate of over 4000 tonnes per hour plus.

These rates of loading assume working 24/7 on 52 weeks of the year. These rates will

certainly be exceeded because of delays caused by wet weather, industrial disputes, accidents,

airport operations such as RFDS, etc. etc.

The outlook for Kingaroy from dust is not good.

We are in line of the predominately south east winds form the mine to the town and these

winds are recorded as blowing 80% of the time.

Gladstone on the coast has massive coal dust problems from coal wagons and stockpiles. If

you want more evidence see

http://www.gladstoneobserver.com.au/news/region-hurt-by-choking-coal-mines-says-

report/2596818/ and http://www.abc.net.au/stateline/qld/content/2006/s1902845.htm

I would see Kingaroy saying good bye to healthy living, clean hospital, clean houses, clean

cars, clean tank drinking water, and clean solar panels which must have their efficiency

markedly reduced by dust.

Tony Pratt's agricultural spraying business, the air port, the Gliding Club and the Observatory

will not be thankful to have their operations effected by dust as well as noise and lights for 24

hours a day.

Please be sure to attend the public meeting at the Town Hall, 7:00 pm, Tuesday 9th February

to participate in the discussion of this mine and it's implications.

G.W. Ebbage,

Kingaroy.

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Stanwell Corporation Public Statements

December 21, 2015

Stanwell Corporation, the owner of the Tarong power stations and the adjacent

Meandu coal mine, has responded to Monday’s release of a pre-feasibility study

by Moreton Resources.

Moreton is proposing to build a second coal mine, closer to Kingaroy, which it

believes could supply the two power stations at a more economical cost than the

Meandu mine (see separate report).

However, a Stanwell spokesman said on Monday afternoon the corporation has

abundant, economic coal to supply Tarong’s power stations from its adjacent

Meandu Mine and Kunioon resource “for several more decades”.

“Through its work since acquiring the Meandu and Kunioon mining tenements in

2008, Stanwell has developed a very detailed knowledge of the resources and

identified substantial low-cost coal which resulted in Stanwell investing prudently

to supply this coal at competitive prices to the power stations,” the spokesman

said.

“Stanwell communicated with Moreton Resources in 2014, and subsequently,

advising that the Meandu Mine and Kunioon resources contain sufficient,

economic coal to support the Tarong power stations until the end of their

economic lives.

“Due to Stanwell’s knowledge of its resources and long-term cost focussed mine

plan, Stanwell advised Moreton Resources that it was not interested in acquiring

coal from the proposed Moreton Resources project.

“Based on a review of the information released by Moreton Resources today,

Stanwell can see no compelling economic, or any other reason, to revisit its 2014

decision and remains fully committed to maintaining its own mining operations

which already deliver substantial economic and social benefits to the South

Burnett and will for many years to come.”

Scheduled Alert

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Can’t Stay and Can’t Leave:

When Governments Fail

From: John Dalton

The nightmare scenario for many people living near large mines is the one of entrapment.

This social and economic phenomenon is created when people who live near a mine find that

for environmental (or other) reasons, it is clearly in their best interest to sell and leave their

property. However, for the same reasons they must sell and leave, no other person would

think of acquiring such a property.

One would assume that the “opt out’ or safety net afforded to such people would be in the

form of some obligation by the mining company to voluntarily acquire such properties. It is

the approach present and evident in many such communities where mining companies

develop a strong social license to operate. In some states, Acts and Regulations embedded in

the mining application process mandate this approach. It simply ensures that affected people

can opt out of adverse circumstances imposed by a mining operation.

However, there is a trend in Government to acquiesce to the strong mining lobby to remove

or weaken such protection for affected landholders. Mechanisms that exist include

adjustments to environmental standards or trigger values that effectively rule out reasonable

claims that environmental factors such as dust are adversely affecting landholders.

The article below from a recent SMH edition outlines such a case.

It is very relevant to the Moreton Resources proposal for Kingaroy, which is also very close

to residential areas, and which also has a proponent mining company which has already

stated that it has no intention of acquiring properties outside the mine.

It is a salient reminder that Governments have a clear role to play in balancing the aspirations

of mining companies against the loss of the most basic of human needs, namely health and

security.

John Dalton

207 Semgreen Rd

Kingaroy 4610

33

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/dust-policy-for-mines-was-battleground-between-epa-and-the-industry-20160217-

gmwrxw.html#ixzz40kJahSwx

For Peter Brown it is the worst of all worlds. Three huge open cut mines mines - Mt Arthur, Mangoola and Bengalla mines

- are edging closer to his property near Muswellbrook. They are now within 3 kilometres and more mines are planned.

The Acquisition Policy is capricious, cruel and needs to be

scrapped. Georgina Woods, campaign co-ordinator at Lock the Gate alliance

"We are just bombarded by dust and noise," he said. But despite clouds of brown-black dust that seep through every crack

and noise that forces him to sleep away from the property, Mr Brown is unable to require the mines to buy him out.

Coal mining dust hangs over the Hunter Valley. Photo: Max Mason-Hubers

Instead he is stuck, unable to sell at any price and dealing with his wife Julie's poor health. She has a chronic lung condition,

known as MAC (Mycobacterium avium Complex) which is associated with underlying lung disease or suppressed immunity.

He believes her condition is due to the poor air quality in their part of the Hunter Valley.

Mr Brown's neighbour Earnest Markham has just finished shrouding his house in green shade cloth in an attempt to keep the

dust at bay.

"We don't want to sell out because we have made so many improvements for the horses," says his wife Dianne. "We couldn't

possibly buy something to replace it. But it's terribly hard on the older folk, " she says.

Peter Brown believes his wife's chronic lung condition is due to the poor air quality around where they live.Photo: Rod

Thompson

The problem for these landowners is the NSW Government's mining land acquisition policy - introduced in late 2014 -

which says when a mining company must buy someone out.

An extensive Government Information (GIPA) request by Lock the Gate Alliance reveals that the formation of the policy

was a battleground between the NSW Environmental Protection Authority and the Resources division in the department of

34

Trade and Industry, which is responsible for mining. The documents reveal the Industry department and the Planning

department rebuffed the EPA's suggestions on key parts of the policy relating to particle standards. Such was the extent of

the changes that it raises serious questions about whether the policy is sufficient to protect the health of those unlucky

landowners who are unable to sell out.

The changes to the policy were done in two ways.

The first major change occurred midway through drafting in late October 2014 and involved deleting any criterion for

PM2.5, or fine particles. The US EPA website says particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM2.5) are believed to

pose the greatest health risks. "Because of their small size (about 1/30th the average width of a human hair), fine particles

can lodge deeply into the lungs".

The NSW EPA argued strongly for the inclusion of a PM2.5 criterion of 8 µg/m3 and a 24 hour criterion of 25 µg/m3. "This

is consistent with the current National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) Measure (AAQ NEPM) advisory

reporting standards," it said.

The COAG group of environment ministers has now agreed to develop a binding standard for PM2.5, with the only question

whether the current advisory standard is strong enough.

"A considerable body of evidence has emerged in recent years about the health impacts of particles at lower levels and, as

noted in the Interim Policy, there is no evidence of a safe threshold for exposure," David Fowler from the EPA wrote.

But despite the EPA's view, the deputy secretary of the resources division, Kylie Hargreaves ruled that the standard for PM

2.5 should be dropped.

"Exclude fine particulate matter until the 2015 reviews are completed and consultation on the proposed levels is done," she

directed. "I would recommend we stick to the original purpose which is to document current practice and don't introduce

anything new."

The second battleground was around larger particles, known as PM10 which are the most common emissions from coal

mining. The EPA pushed for a much more stringent criteria to trigger acquisition.

"In the current review of the particle standards ... the options being considered for 24 hour PM10 is a standard between 50

pg/m3 and 40 µg/m3, Mr Fowler said in an email on 23 October.

"The Hunter community has expressed particular concern about high short-term (24 hour) exposures to particles and 150

jig/m3 is likely to be criticised as insufficiently protective as a criterion," he said.

The resources division replied that it would change the acquisition criteria to 50ug/m3. But it also said this would be a

measure of "incremental impact". In other words acquisition would only be triggered if the proposed new mine would

generate these levels and would not consider the overall cumulative impact on air quality due to multiple mines in the area.

The EPA replied that there was "no rationale" for this approach.

Georgina Woods, campaign co-ordinator at Lock the Gate alliance said: "The Acquisition Policy is capricious, cruel and

needs to be scrapped. It is exposing people to air pollution that makes them sick and trapping them in intolerable noise and

dust pollution." "The NSW Government needs to stop approving more and more areas for coal mining and treating

wholesale purchase of rural lands by coal companies as a solution to the problem of chronic air pollution: it's not. The

priority must be public health."

A spokesman for the department of Industry said: "the aim was to document the current processes for ensuring for noise and

air quality assessment which are designed to protect the health and environment of those in close proximity to a site."

On most days a haze now hangs over Muswellbrook. It now doesn't matter which way the wind blows for Mr Brown. The

mines are on three sides of his property

35

21st February, 2016

To: Kingaroy Concerned Citizens Group

Re: Letter of objection to the proposed construction of a coal mine at Kingaroy by

Moreton Resources.

I am writing to you to lodge my formal objection against the proposed coal mine at Kingaroy

that is being spruiked by Moreton Resources. I attended the Kingaroy Town Hall on the

9th February to listen to what the community had to say about this proposed mine and I was

one of those 934 hands that went up to object to the construction of it. I also spoke briefly at

that meeting about the myth that this mine will generate lots of jobs. I have 25 years’

experience working in the careers and employment industry and it is absolute rubbish to be

told that the coal mining industry will produce lots of jobs. That train has well and truly left

the station.

Common sense tells us the multitude of risks to construct this mine far exceed any gains from

jobs in the coal industry. I will not be referring to the plethora of other risks here as they are

many and I prefer to leave that for other objectors to deal with. My objection focuses solely

on the deception that mining companies engage in to get the public onside and in this case it

is the announcement by Moreton Resources this project would create all of these so called

jobs. I recall Moreton Resources told the public in the Kingaroy Town Hall there would be

around 300–400 jobs in the construction phase. What the local Kingaroy & District public

need to realize is this is just a drop in the ocean compared to the amount of jobs that could be

created in the renewable energy sector and equally in the agricultural sector in our region. We

don’t need dirty jobs from the coal mining industry but we do need jobs in clean energy and

agriculture. Kingaroy is perfectly situated to have a thriving renewable energy industry and

agriculture sector here as we have the natural resources to do it. What I don’t hear or see is

any political will from all three levels of government to make Kingaroy and district a major

regional hub for such opportunities.

As previously stated I have worked in the careers and employment industry for more than 25

years. I have been a careers consultant for much of that time and I also have graduate

qualifications in careers education. Recently I sat down to consider a range of jobs that could

be created in the renewable energy sector. I wondered how many career types I could identify

and how many jobs might that create. (Notice I deliberately differentiate career types from

jobs). As an exercise I set myself a trial target of just two hours for this task and after that

brief time I identified 150 career types that would then generate tens of thousands of jobs for

Australians. Forget the coal industry, Kingaroy could benefit from these types of jobs if we

had new thinking and a commitment to lobby governments and others for our slice of the pie.

If a humble careers consultant can recognize Australia's massive potential for these new clean

energy jobs then imagine what a highly resourced and coordinated team of visionary leaders

could do! If we acknowledge the fact that jobs create other jobs then it really is a no-brainer

that the renewable energy sector could be one of our largest exports and long term provider of

a diverse plethora of jobs. I believe that the South Burnett would be one such region that is

primed to kick some serious goals in these new and improved industries.

Here is my initial list of 150+ career types in a future renewable energy sector which will

literally generate tens of thousands of jobs all across Australia. While my initial task was to

36

consider the range of jobs in the renewable energy sector the same logic could be

applied to the agricultural industry. Unless you were living under a rock the past few years

it is very obvious to even the most casual of observers that we are moving from a mining

boom to a dining boom. While the following list of career types relate to the renewable

energy sector it would not be that difficult to produce an equally diverse mix of job

opportunities in the agricultural sector. In any case here is my list of 150 career types in

renewables:

Accountants, Accounts clerks, Actuary experts, Administrative assistants, Adult education

specialists, Agricultural advisers, Agricultural producers, Animal care managers, Aquatic

security workers, Aquatic veterinarians, Arborists, Aviation engineers, Biodiversity

officers, Botanists, Building surveyors, Business development managers, Business

development planners, Business services – varied, Career advisors, Carpenters, Chemical

engineers, Climate researchers, Customer services staff, Customs inspectors, Delivery

coordinators, Delivery drivers, Distribution & transport workers, Educational

facilitators, Electricians, Electronics engineers, Emergency management officers, Energy

marketing experts, Energy planners, Energy researchers, Energy statisticians, Energy

sustainability experts, Environmental chemists, Environmental economists, Environmental

educational planners, Environmental engineers, Environmental entrepreneurs

(experienced), Environmental entrepreneurs (start‐ups), Environmental field

officers, Environmental geologists, Environmental grants officers, Environmental health

officers, Environmental journalists, Environmental legal advocates, Environmental legal

experts, Environmental officers, Environmental toxicologists, Environmental training

specialists, Event assistants, Event coordinators, Event planners, Export distribution

planners – renewables, Export managers – renewables, Export officers – renewables, Fire

containment specialists, Flood prevention specialists, Food sustainability

researchers, Forrest maintenance staff, Forrest Managers, Fuel and consumption

researchers, Global ambassadors, Graphic artists, Health care researchers, Health

promotion officers, Horticultural officers, Innovations specialists, solar specialists, IT

Specialists and programmers, Job & employment assistants, Laboratory technicians, Land

management officers, Land management producers, Land surveyors, Landscape

architects, Logistics coordinators, Logistics planners, Logistics research

staff, Maintenance workers, Manufacturing workers, Marine biologists, Marine

engineers, Marine environment economists, Marine marketers, Marine officers, Marine

researchers, Marine surveyor , Marketing specialists, Materials

handlers, Mathematicians, Mechanical engineers, Mechanics, Media coordinators, Media

distribution staff, Media planners, Media producers, Minerals specialists, Mobile banking

specialists – environmental, Natural resources officers, Natural resources

planners, Natural resources researches, Numerous other trades, Occupational, health &

safety officers, Ocean engineers, Office managers, Online marketing staff, Paralegal

assistants, Philanthropy coordinators, Plumbers, Population researchers, Ports

inspectors, Purchasing officers, Rangers, Receptionists, Records management

officers, Renewable energy manufacturing ‐numerous and various jobs, Retail

assistants – renewable energy, Retail managers – renewable energy, Sales managers, Sales

officers, Scientists – various, Shipping inspectors, Sign writers, Small business

coordinators, Small business financiers, Social media experts, Solar energy

experts, Sustainability coordinators, Sustainability planners, Sustainability

researchers, Telecommunications planners, Telecommunications workers, Tender

writers, Town planners, Trainers, Transport coordinators, Transport drivers, Transport

managers, Video & sound experts, Volunteer coordinators, Water resources

37

managers, Water resources officers, Water resources planners, Water treatment

staff, Website designers, Wildlife experts, Wind farm managers, Work experience programs

for students.

Australia has a choice. We can continue to limp along with last century's reliance on dirty

coal for electricity or we can be a significant global leader of renewable clean energy

alternatives. In the growing debate of coal versus renewable energy it is clear that a front

runner is emerging and it's not coal. A simple glance at world market prices for coal reveal a

massive decline in value and demand so it's little wonder that global investors are lining up to

back in renewable energy projects instead. While our global competitors are moving quickly

to invest in renewable energy in other parts of the world, Australia is looking more like a

lame duck in this space and the risk to the Australian economy is colossal if we don't act now.

We are a smart country with brilliants minds, yet we find ourselves stuck in a senseless

political quagmire that is holding up billions of dollars in renewable energy investment and

tens of thousands of new jobs for young graduates, senior staff, trades people, middle

managers and others. I’ve lived in the South Burnett (South East Nanango) for less than a

month but it is now my permanent home and it’s already obvious to me there is very high

unemployment here but it doesn’t have to be this way. One of the key things I recall from my

early studies in career planning is that you always look to where the jobs are in the future, not

the past. Can you think of another country that should be leading the way for a massive jobs

creation campaign in renewable energy than Australia? The opportunities for businesses to

invest in renewable energy is also very real but what’s blocking this currently is the lack of

foresight and vision from some political identities, or perhaps more aptly described as

stubborn windbags stuck in a kind of time warp from last century.

In summary, there’s a hungry global market out there looking for countries to lead the way in

renewable energy and agriculture, yet some governments and others have a tin ear when it

comes to any meaningful conversation about it. The problem is where are the serious voices

in our parliaments to inform the public about the true merits of renewable energy and

agriculture, the massive job prospects that follow and the longer term economic and

responsible vision for Australia? Little wonder there is a growing loud crowd that is gaining

traction and demanding our so called leaders that if they're not part of Australia's innovative

solutions to create more responsible jobs, then they should just get out of the way.

I strongly oppose the construction of this proposed mine or any other coal mine in Australia

and Kingaroy cannot afford to waste any more time contemplating it. Instead, time is of the

essence to get moving on renewable energy and agriculture. These two industries alone

would create thousands of jobs across the entire South Burnett and for many decades to

come.

Kind regards,

Trudy Byrnes Director

My Mentor Pty Ltd

38

39

Further Comments Received

Member Comment

1 The South Burnett as a whole has very good agricultural land and a good water supply, due to

These resources already in place we could expand our farming land and with the rest of other

Australian farmers we can become the food bowl for the rest of the world. The South Burnett

could shape the way we trade with overseas people. There are many countries which have been

destroyed from over mining leaving them with poison land which is not fit to grow food now.

We Australians could be leaders in supplying much needed food to other countries, which will

produce a lot of work in our own country, canneries, food processing plants, farmers and pickers,

packers to include just a few examples.

With the new age of clean energy and current coal mines, we have sufficient resources to continue

into the future for many years to come. Food is the most needed resource we need, without food

and water we will not survive and I for one do not wish to starve under town and city lights.

We cannot eat or drink any resources we mine from the ground. I believe Food is the future for

Australia, there are many millions of people all over the world, every one of these people

need to eat and drink to survive.

If the world went to war, we could survive with candles but not without food. Soldiers march

on their stomachs not a field of lights.

I believe we need to get things back into perspective and take away the greed for money.

This country will survive being the Food bowl for the rest of the nation and the world.

Just my thoughts, so why I ask do we want to fix something that is not broken. I understand

everyone is also looking toward the future, but Australia is rich with resources, we do not need

it to be in our back yard.

2 If roofs of residents can be contaminated from dust etc, our water tanks, utilised for quality drinking

water (which most of us do), would be made redundant as a clean, fresh drinking water supply. Town

water, for many people, option would not be as appealing.

Home values could substantially be reduced if decrease in available tank drinking water, not to

mention other possible problems, if mine goes ahead - dust/residues, noise etc. Who would want to

live here?

Electricity prices may decrease if mine goes ahead. May be - but no guarantee and if they do, it

would also be possible, that service and metre reading charges could just possibly increase which

would counteract the decrease in electricity kw price?

Many other queries and/ or concerns exist with me, on the broader aspects for our area and the

proximity of the proposed mine - too many which I would need to know more about.

3 I am writing to say I am very concerned about a mine so close to Kingaroy. I have read about the

health issues and the impact to our region and the wild life. I am worried about the down turn that can

come from negatives of these above issues, and the amount of money that is generated and where

these funds are really going, as well as the impact of sink holes, and the damage that it does with all

the fall out to our nature. As well I been told a plant is grown in our area that is only grown here to do

with optical medicine; it dilates the eye. I hear Kingaroy is the only place this plant grows with its

perfect soils. An overseas company buys this product only grown in Kingaroy. I am concerned that

the dust fall out will change the soils of all crops in the Burnett

I oppose this whole proposal and ask for it to be changed

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4 My work is in agriculture as a plant breeder for Crumptons in both peanuts and Duboisia.

My concerns about the mine proposed by Moreton Resources cover several areas.

Firstly, my property is only a few km from the western boundary of the mine and as such we would

be impacted by noise, dust and light pollution. We are reliant on rainwater for use in the house for

drinking, cooking and washing. Dust would have a marked negative impact upon the quality of our

water. Dust would also impact the inside of our house and make life less comfortable for my family

and myself. Apart from the irritation of the dust itself there are health implications that have been

observed in other mining communities affected by dust.

Secondly, as the plant breeder for Crumptons, I interact with their peanut growers, some of whom

currently cultivate peanuts in the area covered by the proposed mine. The fields that are present there

are widely regarded as some of the finest agricultural land in the area. Peanut cultivation currently

covers a much smaller area that it did some decades ago. Although peanut cultivation is reduced

from its peak it is still regarded as one of the preeminent crops to be grown in this region, so loss of

prime growing country is not helpful to the industry which is struggling against a number of other

factors already.

My third concern about the proposed mine extend beyond these and include the inclusion of part of

the Bunya highway inside the proposed area. Are Moreton Resources planning to alter the course of

the highway and if so where to? At one point in its history Magee’s road was part of the major path

to Kingaroy from Kumbia and Dalby. If increased traffic is routed down Magee’s road it will have a

negative impact on my lifestyle and increase noise levels in my quiet neighbourhood. The road is

subject to flooding at times and further traffic will exacerbate problems during those times and not

improve its current state. Also there is telecommunications infrastructure located on high points

included in the proposed mine area, are there provisions for their relocation so that

telecommunications are not disrupted during the development phase of the mine.

Lastly, I am also concerned about the impact on local catchments, waterways and underground

aquifers from silt and loss of input through catchment destruction. Both the Stewart River and

Barkers Creek will be impacted by this proposed mine and both waterways are impounded for the

supply of water to the region.

5 We do not want a mine as we are concerned for health reasons and being on land for 26 years we

value our life and the quality of our land.

A mine would cause Kingaroy to become a ghost town.

6 Dear Ms Frecklington

I write to you with great concerns over the proposed Moreton Energy coal mine to be built near

Kingaroy.

We relocated from Mt Isa to Kingaroy in 2013, (where as you may know, the town is situation

adjacent to the mine and presents its own environmental and health challenges), in order to live

and enjoy a cleaner, greener and healthier lifestyle for ourselves and three children. Our family

has now become well established in town with work and schools, and we are finding the region

a pleasant change from the harshness of Mt Isa.

The first I learned about this proposed open cut coal mine was in a letter to the editor a couple

of weeks ago in the SB Times. What is going on here? Where is the public consultation and

communication on this? I'm so disappointed and utterly horrified that the powers that be, could

even consider a filthy coal mine to be allowed to be constructed so close to a rural town, amid

agricultural land and freshwater bodies. Since moving here, I've learned that there's always a

41

chance of chemical drift from crop spraying, as was evident in the Rural Weekly just last week

in the Darling Downs area, with chemical sprays drifting some 20klm! That is a very frightening

thought. And now we may have to also contend with gases, chemical particulates, rock and coal

dust wafting across our town and region, further contaminating the area! As it is, I find it

disturbing enough, to know that there's already an active coal mine a mere 39klm as the crow

flies from Kingaroy.

House prices in this area are already low enough, and many people find selling extremely difficult.

We live off Harris Rd (Kingaroy Heights area) and are subject to majority south westerly winds and

breezes and would be one of the closest areas to this proposed mine site. Dusts from mining

operations would drift across town, with us being so close, depositing dust in parks, schools,

homes and on rooftops, contaminating tank drinking water (which we have), not to mention

potential for farmland contamination in neighbouring properties, and damage to the environment,

groundwater and our fragile ecosystem. This region already has a shocking health record, with

all manner of rampant disease and sickness among the local community members. This is a

major concern for me and our young family, and we would really reconsider our long-term

future here if this mine was to go ahead. In an ever-increasing toxic world, is it too much to ask

that we are able to find and live in an area where there is little or even no, adverse environmental

health risks?

Where is the government's commitment to clean, green, sustainable and renewable energy sources?

How can a local government in a heavy farming and grazing region, support such an idea? I truly believe that a venture like this, though it may create employment opportunities, it will come at a

cost, and that cost is the health of the regional community.

I do not see how this coal mine can possibly be beneficial for Kingaroy and the South Burnett, and I intend to show my support by attending the community meeting on 9th February as a

community member who is vehemently opposed to this

7 I was born and resided in Muswellbrook from 1962 until 2001, until the construction of the Hunter

supermines Bengalla and Mt Arthur Muswellbrook was very similar to Kingaroy with a mix of

industry and agriculture. However with the opening of these mines within 10km of the town

boundary our lives changed dramatically. Mining may bring money to a town but there are hidden

costs; no-one mentions that Homes are subject to movement from repeated blasting costs to be borne

by the homeowner. That paint wears out faster as a result of constant abrasion from particulates, that

you can no longer consume water from your tank, That your down pipes and gutters corrode faster,

you cannot leave your car parked outside or your washing as it will be covered in dust, overtime you

want to sit outside you must wash everything down. Your pool is never clean anymore, the pump and

filter wear out faster. Everything wears out faster.

I remember days before we moved where we were unable to open our windows due to the high dust

content of the air, both of my children became asthmatic a problem which vanished as soon as we left

the area. I have watched as my friends and family have succumbed to dust related diseases and

respiratory failure.

Mines affect lifestyle - no one will convince me otherwise.

If a mine comes to this area I will be leaving not matter what the material cost as my life is worth

more than that.

Thanks for the inform

8 Thank you for that. I did have one more thought about Moreton Resources' proposed mine. It

occurred to me that since they are actually a repackaged Cougar Energy this may well be a last

attempt to recover the monies invested in Cougar. By proposing and beginning development the

mine would appear as a going (and viable) concern and so they could on sell the project, recover their

monies and be rid of this troublesome project. But that is just my assessment of the whole situation

and I have little experience of these matters.

42

9 We live in Taabinga Village and are quite concerned with what may happen. We shifted up from the

Hunter Valley 13 years ago and do know what damage has been done to that area.

My husband is on home oxygen with lung disease and can walk around our yard safely but if the

mine goes ahead he will be have to stay inside our home, not a very nice or happy prospect for him.

There will be limited options to sell and to relocate to another area.

10 REASONS WHY MORETON RESOURCES MINE SHOULD NOT PROCEED.

PRIME AGRICULTURAL LAND WILL BE DESTROYED FOREVER.

The land upon which this mine will be is some of the best and most productive in Queensland.

Among many other crops, the only organic peanuts in Australia grown are in the mine area. Mines

cause irreparable damage. No land can ever be rehabilitated to its former productive state. Man has

existed without coal never without food.

RESIDENTS WAY OF LIFE WILL BE DESTROYED.

People who have chosen to live here were aware of Tarong Power station which is not in close

proximity to the town, unlike the proposed mine.

MINE WILL BE DETRIMENTAL TO HEALTH

Reports on the detrimental effect to residents, who live in close and prolonged proximity to mines,

has been well documented by health professionals.

TOURIST INDUSTRY DESTROYED.

Kingaroy has much to attract tourists, proximity to the beautiful Bunya mountains, wineries, the

newly located observatory, an excellent golf course, the opportunity to have flying lessons and

beautiful countryside all of which our visitors from England, Ireland and China have enjoyed. These

people were amazed at what Kingaroy had to offer. Will they return for holidays in a mining town

to witness the destruction which will take place? I think not. I have yet to meet anyone who would

say “Let’s go to a mining town for our holidays this year. Can't wait to enjoy the dust, noise day and

night and the beautiful view of a coal mine from Bethany cottages."

LAND AND HOUSE VALUES DEVALUED.

Some young couples, who have recently built homes in close proximity to the mine would be

devastated if it went ahead. With the desire to bring up a family in a clean healthy environment,

they would no doubt have to sell at a loss - if a sale was possible. As stated by an estate agent, at the

meeting, the first question asked by prospective buyers is, is there a possibility of a mine in the area?

The above are but a few of the reasons why governments should never allow any mine to go ahead in

such close proximity to a town.

Is there any need for another coal mine when so many are closing down?

The production of solar panels would be a welcome industry in any town as the need for clean,

healthy alternatives to coal are paramount.

11

We endorse all those concerns raised at the meeting in the Kingaroy Town Hall on Tuesday

09/02/2016.

Yours Faithfully,

Bryon

12 I attended the meeting on Tuesday night and would like to receive the KCCG updates regarding the

proposed mine. We were impressed with Johns grasp on the whole thing and find it astonishing that

43

a mine would be proposed so close to a large town like Kingaroy as well as the resumption of prime

farming land. It seems there are many obstacles of it getting off the ground (no pun intended) and we

hope the continuing pressure against it will prevail and that it will not proceed.

One concern I have which wasn’t mentioned at the meeting is about the mine cutting across the

D’Aguilar Highway and the Goodyer Rd. How will both affect the flow of traffic and the former how

will it affect getting to Brisbane and the latter Toowoomba and for us more importantly Goombungee

and Gowrie mountain where we have families we often visit?

13

As my husband is an asthmatic we moved 25 years ago from Muswellbrook in the Upper Hunter to 5

acres in the South Burnett to escape the dust emanating from Open Cuts to the east and south of the

town. We chose the South Burnett as is was similar to the Upper Hunter when we moved there 33

years prior.

We do not live near the proposed mine site but, after living in the Upper Hunter, we have seen how

open cuts are like cancers or spreading disease, once one has been approved, pretty soon there are

others approved until the whole area is like a moonscape - great holes and huge hills of overburden.

Just take a drive in the Upper Hunter, down the New England Highway from Aberdeen to Singleton,

Singleton to Jerrys Plains, onto Denman and back to Muswellbrook and you will find Open Cuts

everywhere (and last time we were down there are protest signs ’Stop the Mines' everywhere north of

Scone) Once where there was beautiful river flats and dairy farms and vineyards - nearly all gone,

replaced with huge ugly holes.

Supposedly after the Open Cuts are finished the landscape has to be returned to the previous

state. But the land can never be returned to its previous beautiful state. Just look west of

Muswellbrook towards the Bengalla Open Cut. What remains are ugly sculptured hills, all artificial,

with grass and small trees planted, trees that are replacing trees that are 100+ years old that have all

been bulldozed to make way for Open Cuts, trees that will take 50 odd years to look anything like the

ones they are replacing.

Hoping that the protests fall on favourable ears and Kingaroy and the South Burnett district can

remain the beautiful place for people to live and visit.

14 Dear Sir/ Madam,

It would be a dangerous and disgraceful mistake if this mine was to be located near a residential area

or near Agricultural areas. There is no need to risk the Air, Food and Water in the area being

contaminated. The short term benefits are simply not worth the problems with our health homes, and

agricultural land. It is not a sustainable project. It is not a well-planned project. It would be a disaster

to have the mine so close to town! May Common-sense prevail and may our children have usable

AIR, FOOD and WATER! The Moreton Resources Representative's arguments relating to the benefit

to the town where poor. There would be short term financial gain, however for the people in this

town it would be better financially, and in all ways to keep the prime Agriculture land for Vital

Agriculture, and the town away from a coal pit. I hope you consider this serious issue.

Residents of the South Burnett and Sunshine Coast

15 My concern If you wish to bring the mine to our home town of Kingaroy.

As we would have to relocate towns after living in Kingaroy for 5 generations. We would expect to

have our home at Taabinga Village bought out also our local business of 17 years and the building

the business runs from. Also our three children own homes here and we would also like them to be

bought out. Relocating schools for our grandchildren and relocating nursing homes for my elderly

mother will also come at a cost as we wish to all be together and live in a healthy environment.

44

Also our children have all married into local families these families also wish to live close to

their children and grandchildren so they would also have to relocate so their homes would

need to be bought out.

We have 7 staff members and some of whom can’t afford to relocate so they would need help in

relocating also.

16 (1)-the view from my lounge and front verandah would be taken up by the mine site, instead of

looking at the Bunya Mts., so I am opposed to it as all I would see is dust, and the noise all the

time24/7, and at night there would be lights to contend with as well, (2)- with the way the winds

blow here, (coming from the south east), I would have to buy a clothes dryer, as I wouldn't be able to

hang the washing out on the line because they'd come back in dirtier than when I put them out, (3)- I

also have my elderly mother living with me and I'm not the only one with heath issues, that’s why we

and a lot of other people came out here to get away from all that, and none of the above would be

satisfactory for my mother, myself and a lot of others in town, with the dust and the continuous noise

in the operation of the equipment at the mine, (4)- Also I would be afraid that with mine site right in

my viewing area that my property would be just about worthless as I wouldn't be able to sell, (which

was going to be for my retirement), and that is a big issue. (5) I also don't think there would be any

new jobs here, because the people working at Meandu mine would take up the jobs because that mine

will be shut down, (6) - Local business's would probably also be effected and the town would slowly

die, just like the town of Acland, and also seeing what happened to towns in N.S.W. that being

Musselbrook and Singleton, and those town are further away from the mine site that is proposed

here. (7) - Peoples health and the history of this significant heritage town would be lost and that

would be a disaster, all that history lost forever, and what about the people on the land that use their

properties for a lively-hood, that also would be a disgrace, I'm sure that the mental health of people

living around here would turn into an epidemic, as they wouldn't be able to cope the loss of

everything around the town and surrounding areas, with continual noise & dust. (8)- The observatory

operates out of the airport grounds and it would be shame to lose something like that in the town as

well as the costs of it when they moved here, all that would've been for nothing. So to finish off, I for

1 vote against having a mine in the Kingaroy area, for all of the above reasons, and I'm not alone in

that thinking, so find somewhere else to mine not here. I hope the Government we put in power, does

the right thing by the people of this iconic town and not bow to the mining company.

17 I see no benefit to the community from this mine, with the opening of the mine so close to another.

The presence of a mine in the Coolabunia/ Goodger area presents a danger to water supply and

quality. Before a mine starts a data base needs to be established and monitored on a continuous basis.

This monitoring needs to be official and not individual. Monitoring must not be left to the mine

operators. Monitoring must commence immediately. Monitoring should include (1) dams, (2) ground

water (3) streams including Barker’s Creek, Stuart River and all tributaries. Air pollution should also

be monitored.

18 Concerned about health, property values and the list goes on.

19 How will the coal be transported to its destination and will this require infrastructure upgrade?

20 How much coal is still at Meandu?

21 Proximity to Kingaroy

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22 With coal being an old fossil fuel fired industry, why do we need a coal mine? Have lived at

Tanguringie Lakes. Blasting was a problem. The dust was different from usual dust. It was oily and

smeared along surfaces. There is plenty if dust already. So we need more?

23 Listen to the community. Our community is more important than figures on a spreadsheet.

24 It will destroy all the wonderful qualities of Kingaroy, its community and a peaceful country life.

25 How will they transport this coal to Tarong? If by road, who pays for the road upkeep?

26 We will lose a healthy environment. MAJOR CONCERN!

My investment property in Geritz Road will become unsaleable and unliveable. I will lose both

property and home. I am of retirement age. Not much of a retirement!

I see no benefit to anyone.

27 I have just read an article about the responsibility of rehabilitation of the land after a coal mine ‘s life

is over and how many if the companies on sell the land cheaply and therefore are passing the cost of

the rehabilitation on to companies who do not have the resources to do the job. Big toxic lakes are

the outcome - we don’t want that!

I attended the meeting in the town hall on the 7th, and heard both sides of this proposal.

I remain unequivocally against this development on several grounds.

Noise, dust and light pollution:

As stated by the KCCG, the prevailing winds are from the SE, which means any dust, (and mines

produce dust, that is a fact), will blow directly towards the town and beyond. We are situated just 5

Kms to the north, north east of the town, and rely totally on tank water for our home and business,

which is making and selling wine. This dust would cover our grapes, and become part of our

wines...and would therefore put our wines at risk of being contaminated with whatever the mine

happened to be spewing forth on any given day. Metal haze is problem in wine making, one which

we do not have at the moment. This dust would also settle on our roofs, and be washed into our

drinking water, creating problems with our food license compliance, not to mention being our only

water for consumption.

Noise pollution would be a distinct problem for our B&B business, as we and our neighbouring

B&Bs promote our region as a place to get away to, to breathe deep and savour the quietness of the

country life. To wake up to bird song and the lowing of cattle. Sound carries, and once blasting starts

occurring our B&B guests, along with those of Deshons, Hillview, Red Rock on Booie will not

consider this a relaxing peaceful getaway, and will desert us in droves. I know I would.

Light will devastate one of the best tourism attractions in the region, the new Kingaroy Observatory.

The dust and light will mean an end to this business, barely months after its owners have spent many

many thousands relocating to what seemed a perfect location.

Tourism in general will be decimated. No one is going to visit Kingaroy and stay in a town where a

mine is so close, and the noise and dust will make everything gritty. The approach to the town

through lovely rolling pastures is a pleasure often commented upon by friends and guests alike, and

I'm sure a dirty coal mine will not invoke the same responses.

House prices will fall, and most of us will be trapped in homes that are not worth what we paid for

them. There may be an initial boom in employment during the set up phase, but as is clearly evident

in Chinchilla and other towns of the Surat Basin this is not sustained.

28 Dust, noise, health.

46

Land valuations and the ability to sell when necessary.

30 You mentioned new industry. What about solar?

Work with Stanwell as a partner for energy and power bills will come down. We have the land. Use

it. No health issues, water or environment ones.

31 It is my understanding of the Queensland Environment Legislation, that to gain a state environment

license, you need to show not only that the company has the economic backing to develop the mine

but also must show there is a market for the coal. If Stanwell has said “NO”, they will not buy the

coal, and there is no infrastructure to take the coal to port, where is Moreton’s coal market?

32 We own our home (in Taabinga Village). We have worked over the past few years to have it

retirement. We do not want to move, but if the mine goes ahead, we cannot stay. Most of our friends

in Taabinga Village feel the same way.

33 Why is Moreton Resources continuing to progress with a mine when the power station people are

saying that they are not interested? Are Stanwell going to develop the Kunioon deposit?

34 This meeting has confirmed my fears and concerns. I oppose the development of this mine.

35 Main concern is the proximity to residential areas. Noise, dust, lights and wrecked rural land.

Negative effect on the Observatory and Airport.

Will anyone really want coal in 40years time?

36 WE do not want or need another mine especially so close to town!! Concerned about dust pollution,

water supply and general destruction of our country town. Health issues are inevitable if the mine

goes ahead.

37 The mine is less than a kilometre from residential properties. Our home is 2.5 kms from the mine

site. What insurance do we have for damage to home and from explosions at the site? Show of hands

opposes the mine.

38 We have Tarong (Meandu)! We do not need another mine.

38 Where do all the five generations of farming families go and do?

39 Land valuations, Lifestyle keep as is, Health issues, Children’s welfare,

Water quality.

40 Writing a formal letter of objection

41 Landscape destruction, Negative impact on tourism, Destruction of prime agricultural land, Health

issues

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42 You can’t dig a hole in the ground and chemically /environmentally replace the soil and be able to

use it in the same way i.e. for agriculture.

43 People spoke about water quality and aquifers, but no one spoke of the “acid rain” and its effects.

This is a by-product of mining.

44 Environmental impact study, damage to roads,

Suggest a yearly bond be paid to a trust to cover these issues

45 To Moreton: How much money have you allowed as compensation for future illnesses that children

may develop from coal?

How much are you putting into a trust fund for rebuilding the mine site after mine closure?

46 No Government should have power over land in a democracy. (Attached letter re Noel’s conviction )

47

On a personal note for us, the proposed mine would come to within 1 km of our house, so we

personally would be effected by the noise, blasting vibration, strong light, and dust. We both already

have some health issues with Randall being treated for asthma so we know that a mine so close

would severely exacerbate that.

Randall has worked on mine sites so is very familiar and aware of their operations and environmental

impact. The blasting so close to our home and those of everyone else who would be in the same

close proximity to the blasting would pose a serious threat to the stability of our homes. Just where

does Moreton expect all of the people who would be effected by this proposed mine to move to?

There will no longer be any land close to Kingaroy that provides the same quality of life that we all

now have.

Our roads will be changed (more land will have to be resumed for this) as the current roads will no

longer be able to be used. If they then have to transport their coal and there is no rail line, again

heavy coal hauling trucks will have to be used and our roads will become badly damaged by that

constant traffic as seen in other mining areas where this happens.

As it is only a replacement for the current mine we fail to see how it can create more jobs for the

district on a long term basis, except during their construction phase. From past experience not a lot of

local labour is used as “experienced labour" is brought in That does not provide jobs for all of our

unemployed. Have they even guaranteed that all present workers will maintain their jobs? If not and

their jobs are given to others we still have a lot of people out of work.

Environmentally there are many areas that will be effected where there are certain flora or fauna

habitats. What do they plan to do to those things?

These are probably only just scratching the surface for our concern for this proposal and what the

adverse effects will be for us and our region.

We respectfully submit our names and concerns and are totally against the proposal by Moreton

Resources.

48 What is the council and Local members position on the proposed mine? (and a letter)

49 We wish to state our concern re the proposed Coal Mine from Kingaroy Airport to Brooklands.

We attended the Kingaroy Concerned Citizens Group Information Forum on the 9th February and

could not even have imagined the gross destruction that Moreton Resources expect the people of

Kingaroy to accept and believe that this Mine would be in the best interest for Kingaroy and its

future.

It is so hard to understand how you Moreton Resources think you have the right to destroy

people's lives, Farming, Water quality, Health, Tourism, just to mention a few very important factors

you intend to destroy.

48

Our only hope is that common sense prevails and Kingaroy will remain a healthy place to live and

bring up a family as it has done for many years in the past.

50 If the gliding club were to move it would be a big loss to the region especially at times when state,

national and international gliding competitions are held here.

51 I do not want this mine because it is far too close to Kingaroy. I do not feel that good agricultural

land should be taken over by a coal mine as farming is the backbone of this district. The water table

is most important to the farmers. This proposed mine will be within the 6 km zone set by CASA.

52 Power suppliers are accepting that solar power can be to their advantage. The reliance on coal fired is

weakening and batteries will proliferate before this mine can come on line.

Stanwell do not want the coal and it can’t physically leave the area as an export..not occur.

Moreton say that the mine equates to only 0.06% if the area, BUT it is the BEST PART!

The savings are very suspect!

53 Could you please add my objection to the proposed mine if you have a petition or something alike in

place? My residence is in Kingaroy and, along with a number of other issues, I am not happy with

the almost certain devaluation of our properties as a consequence of the mine.

Thank you very much, and I pray the endeavours to stop the mine will be successful.

54 My name is Sarah and my husband, myself and our three young children live at Taabinga

Village. We are very concerned about the long-term health impacts of living so close to an open cut

mine. We simply do not want our children growing up breathing in air polluted with coal dust and

drinking contaminated rainwater from our tanks. We also feel that Moreton's proposal will leave

many families like us 'trapped' - we couldn't sell, even if we wanted to, yet we likely won't be

resumed. We have worked hard to build our own home, establish an orchard and veggie gardens, all

to offer our children a more self-sufficient, healthy lifestyle. To have this negated by a mine so close

would be devastating for us. But we feel for the farmers even more than for ourselves.

Both our families have farmed in the South Burnett region for generations. Agriculture is the

industry upon which our region has built its heritage. To see prime agricultural land be used for an

unnecessary mine - and it is indeed unnecessary as Stanwell neither need nor want the coal - is

ludicrous.

Thank you KCCG for all that you are doing to raise the profile of this issue.

55

Staiers Road Goodger 4610

Our property is an approved quarry and it is in the proposed area for MR exploration Permit. We are

unsure of the options available to us to find out what we need to know. Any advice would be most

appreciated.

56

Dear Marilyn,

Please include our thoughts, concerns and submissions to the minister in relation to Moreton

Resources Mining and Exploration Proposal.

Our property is located at the Northern end of EPC 882 and only just North of MDL385 on Edenvale

South Road.

Our concerns include the effect of mining and excavating into the ground and almost certainly below

the level of the underground water table. The natural spring water would naturally divert into the

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mining operation pit which would stop water rising to the surface as it does on ours and other nearby

properties providing running creek water that is used for stock watering. Our property is run as a

working farm producing crops as well as running cattle. I believe that having a mine in such close

proximity would have a major negative impact on our ability to continue farming operations as is

currently undertaken.

Having worked in the mining industry, I am well aware of the effects of dust and blasting particles

that are impossible to completely contain and the effect of noise and work lights that are all part of

mining operations. The proximity to the Kingaroy community would mean that dust and airborne

contaminants will move across Kingaroy on the prevailing South Easterly wind. If I can't burn off in

my paddocks if the breeze is heading towards town once a year, what will the effect of a mine have

that runs year round/ Asthma, as suffered by my wife, is a major health concern if mining in this

close proximity were allowed to proceed.

Having lived in the area for a number of years, it is also obvious that road infrastructure is nowhere

near capable of carrying increased traffic as would be required by this proposed operation.

Native wildlife including wallabies, koalas and echidnas that live in the surrounding bush would also

be negatively impacted by the noise, dust and bright artificial lighting. We also have concerns about

the cultural significance of the land being damaged. The traditional owners of this land the Wakka

Wakka people held great respect and significance for this land as it formed a part of the walking

pathways to the Bunya Mountains Festivals as well as its close proximity to the Coolabunia Boora

Ring. It would be irresponsible to allow people to vandalise such rich country with value

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24th Feb 2016

To Whom It May Concern

I am writing to express my concern regarding Moreton Resources proposed mining tenure

on the outskirts of Kingaroy.

I, with my family, come to live in Kingaroy in 1984 from Sydney. We came here because it

was a large country town with opportunity for work with the opening of the TAFE College,

and of course the Tarong Power Station, but most important we enjoyed the fresh air,

beautiful scenery and lovely farming districts.

(Tarong Power Station is approx 30km from Kingaroy, so doesn’t promote a problem,

although I guess at the time some of the people who live in that area were upset, due to

some of the points that I make below)

Should the mine go ahead – the farmers will have to leave their properties that they have

lived and worked on for many years, losing their livelihoods and also house in close

proximity to the mine will also be dispossessed.

The water supply will be affected (water table)

The air will be polluted with dust and coal dust which will affect our tank water/washing on

the line, breathing/health.

There will be added noise/lighting

Possible health effects

Possible house/land prices will be affected.

I am not against progress but my main concern regarding this venture is its CLOSE

PROXIMITY to Kingaroy.

I hope that this venture is not given permission to mine near our town.

With regards,

50

58

To whom it may concern,

I am writing to voice my concern and objection to the proposed open cut coal mine by

Moreton Resources in close proximity to the town of Kingaroy.

It is too close to the centre of Kingaroy, approx. 3 to 5kms.

It is near the southern end of the Aerodrome airstrip and would cause a light and dust hazard

with 24/7 operation of the proposed open cut mine.

It would be using valuable farming land.

It would diminish the available and dependant water table that the farmers use with

numerous bores to water their crops and livestock.

It is too close to most domestic residences which would be affected by initially the ground

dust and then the ever present coal dust which would contaminate the rain water collected in

tanks for drinking and get on washing hung out to dry and throughout the houses and

everywhere.

The dust would also affect people’s health with increases in asthma and lung problems.

Noise is another concern form machinery and blasting. This would upset or affect the

majority of the population of Kingaroy.

Who would Moreton Resources sell the coal to as Tarong Power Station has said it doesn’t

want their coal? It would have to be transported to the coast by roads which haven’t been

designed for constant use by B-double or larger transports.

There is no rail line to this location so a new one would have to be built and this would

mean more land resumptions, resulting in more disruption to many more people, if this

option was considered

These are some of the points that concern me regarding the proposed coal mine near

Kingaroy.

Facebook Messages and Comments

59 If [employees] are not local, where will they live? There is a university study that directly

linked violence and hospital admissions within young men living in camps in construction

and mining towns.

Major concerns about the health of my growing family if the proposed mine goes ahead.

Look at Gladstone for example. Heavily industrialized city with the highest rate of

respiratory problems in Australia according to a report from a few years ago. And secondly,

though not the last, very real concern of house prices dropping even further. It is very

possible that many people will not be able to afford to leave the town when the mining

boom subsides.

51

I grew up in and around mining towns /communities, and am very glad that Kingaroy is not

one of them. If we become so reliant upon mining in this region we will be very much

subject to the highs and lows of what has proven to be a very volatile industry.

(below rephrased by KCCG)

If you think the previous government’s sacking over 200 government workers had a big

effect on Kingaroy. Just imagine what Private Enterprise will do to the area when it's no

longer profitable to be here...

60 Just want to add some comments to the many so far. I don't trust Moreton’s financial

figures. Just because they quote some prestigious group's assessment, in my experience,

you get what you pay for. Doesn't matter if it is a government getting information from

public servants who are supposed to be impartial. Very difficult when your employment is

paid for by the people asking for your advice. Example- the budget deficit debacle when the

ruling party changed at the last election. Of course a group commissioned to give you a

report is going to tell you what they think you want to hear. 2.

(below rephrased by KCCG)

I also don’t have much faith in elected MPs who stick to the party line rather than advocate

for the constituents about local issues.

61 I lived in the Gippsland area of Morwell mine (Vic.) and witnessed firsthand what it’s like

to deal with months of thick smoke from coal seam in mine on fire .smoke continued long

after fire. I would never live in that area again.

62 I have been disappointed to read so many comments about how bad it will be if it doesn't

go ahead. Some people hear 'mine' and think there is a heap of money to be made.

Unfortunately, they don't understand that it is not a 'new mine', only hoping to replace

Meandu. There has been no EIS done to reassure people about the water table, pollution

and earth stability from blasting (when so close to housing and airport).. Stanwell have said

they don't want the brown coal so where is it going and how is it getting there? There is no

rail line and it can't be trucked out on our roads. There may be an initial 'boom' with the

building of it;however MR said last night there will be a small work force to run it.

We don't want to end up like Chinchilla where there are over 120 houses available for rent

now and 100 of them are empty. People with breathing difficulties will end up leaving and

will end up losing out on money as values will go down. People spoke last night of health

issues and they come from places that have mines close to their town. They moved here for

the 'clean air' and country lifestyle - things that were taken from them in the Hunter Valley

region.

If people try and get out now before prices drop - just in case - and it doesn't go ahead - they

have left for nothing and we still lose. I will be the first to say our town needs something. I

do disagree with speakers last night saying our town is thriving. The number of closed

shops and businesses struggling does not support that. I don't know what could come to

boost the area.... however a mine 4km from the town centre that can be seen clearly from so

many spots in town is not it. Just my opinion.

63 Dear Sir/ Madam,

52

It would be a dangerous and disgraceful mistake if this mine was to located near a

residential area or near Agricultural areas. There is no need to risk the Air, Food and Water

in the area being contaminated. The short term benefits are simply not worth the problems

with our health homes, and agricultural land. It is not a sustainable project.

It is not a well-planned project. It would be a disaster to have the mine so close to town!

May Common-sense prevail and may our children have usable AIR, FOOD and WATER!

The Moreton Resources Representative's arguments relating to the benefit to the town were

poor.

There would be short term financial gain; however for the people in this town it would be

better financially, and in all ways to keep the prime Agriculture land for Vital Agriculture,

and the town away from a coal pit. I hope you consider this serious issue.

64 If a mine is only 5 kilometres from the town, might as well say it’s in the town. Taabinga

Village is an historical site, and it’s right in the middle of this. What about preserving our

heritage instead of digging it up. This area is absolutely beautiful, lovely breezes, clear blue

skies, starry nights, beautiful creeks and rivers, abundant bird life and animal life. Thriving

farms with cows and lovely green grass is not the place for a dirty open cut coal mine.

To say that we won’t be affected by pollution is nonsense, of course dust will blow in the

air for miles and then there is the noise and lights to contend with. All this when Tarong

doesn't want the coal, it has enough of its own.

There is more to this than making jobs for locals, Moreton are only concerned about the

share prices. As usual it’s all about the money and not caring about the environment for

future generations.

I certainly hope common sense prevails and Moreton leaves this beautiful area alone. It

won’t be beautiful with a mine and trucks, and noise and dust and lights on all night.

I think Kingaroy could well become a ghost town, I for one do not want to live so close to a

coal mine.

65 We moved to Kingaroy 4 years ago so our young family could enjoy the country lifestyle.

We grow some vegetables and fruit trees and have chickens so we can have a healthy

lifestyle. This will negate our current situation if the mine goes ahead.

66 We moved here from Mt Isa to enjoy a cleaner, cooler, greener environment and lifestyle.

We grow veggies, have heaps of fruit trees, and chickens too, tank water, and are basically

trying to live more sustainably and self-sufficiently.

If this mine went ahead, I wouldn't hesitate to move somewhere else. The health of our

family is just not worth any benefit this mine would bring. In Mt Isa, the mine held (and I

believe still does) a special agreement act that allowed the company to pollute to a certain

limit, due to it's close proximity to town (MIML Agreement Act 1985). If you've ever been

there, the mine lies directly adjacent to the township.

I lived 27 years in the Isa, and worked 11yrs at the mines, 7 of which in the environment

dept. Although environmental monitoring and reporting was tight and adhered to, as

mentioned at last night's meeting, this does not mean environmental incidents and breaches

did not happen, they did. What's to say a similar agreement might not be put in place by

Moreton?

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67 We own a small property at Coolabunia next door to the location of the mine pit according

to Moreton Resources proposed feasibility study. We are also very close to MDL385. We

purchased with the intent to graze pasture fed animals as part of our paddock to plate

business. We live in prime agricultural red soil.

Due to demand from our city based customers who frequently express a desire to visit the

farm and see firsthand where their food comes from, we purchased the property with the

intention to build a guest cottage ‘farmstay’ experience so this could occur. This would also

bring additional tourism expenditure into our community and provide education about

primary production. With the proposed mine in place our plans are on hold. Living so close

to a mine with additional noise and dust would not be conducive to a rural quiet farm stay

experience. We also have significant concerns about the health impacts for our own family

and issues of both tank and underground bore water supply but these have already been

highlighted. For us personally, we do not fall within the MDL but would be somewhere in a

buffer zone, if that exists. There has been to date no information given from the company

about what provisions exist for buffer zone.

This is very upsetting for our family.

But according to their pre-feasibility budget estimations they do not appear to have

considered this at all, and have only recognized the land holders directly under the MDL.

So that’s raises the questions: will neighbouring landholders be trapped to live next door to

a dirty mine?

Having just built our new home we also have significant concerns about the effects of

blasting will do to the foundations of our home. The unsettling questions remains - will the

mine company buy us out or will we be forced to live close to the coal mine? Will we be

forced to cease operating our small business because we cannot proceed with the tourism

aspect which would have facilitated the long term viability of our business.

68 How will Moreton Resources restrict noise and dust levels to acceptable health standards?

How will Moreton Resources overcome the issue of light pollution so close to an airport and

observatory? What statistical measures will Moreton Resources use to gauge community

support/opposition to the mine?

69 I wish to voice my concern regarding the Moreton Resources proposal for a Coal Mine:

Proposal MDL 385

My husband and I built our home here 40 years ago and raised a family. We are seniors who

have never considered moving elsewhere. However, health and other considerations would

make it untenable for us to remain so close to the proposed mine. We also believe that the

value of our property would be greatly negatively impacted.

Therefore, I vote a very emphatic “No” to the development of this mine.

Taabinga Village, Qld 4610

Statements from the Forum Floor: Tuesday 9th March 2016

70 We cannot afford to let this agricultural land go to mining. Eg. Foreign demand is for beef

not coal. I don’t want to see farmers lose their land.. Kingaroy is not for sale.

54

71 Economic outlook – a healthy region has to have a great diversity of income and industry

and Kingaroy is currently overweighted in the mining region. Another mine will cause

Kingaroy to be a less diverse region and cause us to be more vulnerable to outside

influences.

Secondly the Tourism industry. A lot of work is going on around the region to rejuvenate

the tourism industry due to recent issue that cause downturn. A mine as close to the city as

proposed, and as close to the airport and other tourist attractions will not do anything for

diversity or our tourism income.

72 Observatory concerns about lights, loss of tourism, investment in his recent shift

Rejuvenation of tourism will not be positively influenced by a mine this close to Kingaroy

or airport.

Kingaroy observatory – spent $100 000 to move observatory to Kingaroy from Maidenwell.

The lights from the mine will kill tourism and the observatory. Will lose over half a million

dollars. Permission from CASA was needed to build on the airport and to use a green laser

pointer. There is a 6km buffer zone around the airport enforcing no lights

73 The South Burnett did their largest survey ever looking at what all of the people across the

South Burnett want to see over the next 20 years in their community until 2032. What came

out of that outstandingly was that the we want to retain our country lifestyle. That already

our plan for the next 20 years.

74 I’m a former lawyer to Blackburn Insurance Broker and specialised for 32 years in open cut

coal mines. Mainly around the Hunter Valley. My last project in 1998 was so assess the risk

attached to the Bangalla mine 4.5kms outside of Muswellbrook. My advice was that the

risk as too high for legal liability status-damage to property, health etc.

My advice to Lloyds underwriters was that they should not underwrite it because of

those risks. It was too close to town.

I was amazed that authorisation was given for such close proximity. What has

happened since then, one of the towns was wiped out totally, and there’s been a high

incidence of asthma especially amongst kids, and other health issues.

75 We need to preserve our wildlife for our future generation. The mine is in a known koala

habitat. RSPCA Wildlife Hero – involved specifically in koala rescues. I believe we are all

interested in our wildlife. I do ask you all, concerning the wildlife, remember you may not

be around in approximately 20 years’ time but your relations will be. We have to look after

the wildlife for our relations.

76 Speaking on behalf of family and friends. You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.

It would be terrible to lose the landscape of Kingaroy, the rolling red hills. It would be

tragic to lose such productive farmland. This mine will inflict misery on all. What is the

lifetime of the mine in mega litres? Money set aside for land reclamation back to

original state? What guarantee is there to ratepayers to address enterprise mistakes? Eg.

Memerambi.

77 This district has had a history of careful water usage. The mine would have impossible

prospects after mining for land and water reparation. Where will water be drawn from to

alleviate the dust problem

Concerned about every drop of water that goes from roofs into water tanks – in every drop

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of water we will be consuming heavy metals The tourism industry in Kingaroy is a vibrant

business which will be decimated and decline to a trickle. Many businesses will be affected

by the erosion of their income and property values. Reduced quality of lifestyle. People

would move away. There would be reduction in quality of lifestyle for nurses, teachers,

artists, all employees.

78 We need a “mining free community”. It is difficult to take back a social license once it is

given. Lock The Gate alliance is an organisation that assists communities in these issues.

Growing movement in Australia “Lock the Gate Alliance” is finding a mining free

community process very effective for communities to take back the social license and say to

the mining company that they are not welcome here..

79 Lived in Miles for years – was there before changes came in with CSG. When CSG came

in the price of houses went up, no extra jobs for locals, worried about water supply for

locals – required extra trucks causing road damage. There was rubbish all over the roads –

the workers didn’t care about throwing rubbish out the trucks. Paying to take rubbish to the

dump now occurs. Tourism died when the mine was established because you couldn’t get a

room at any of the motels.

80 How does the company expect to gauge support? This forum would be the best means.

Moreton Resources have publically said that they won’t go ahead if they don’t have

community support. My question is how will they measure that and how will they feed that

back to us?

81 We are not silly. We are all here. You (MR) can’t just change your name and think that we

feel any differently.

82 I have been a community member of 13 years and thoroughly enjoy it. I’m pretty sure that

the South Burnett has been featured on a number of TV shows promoting this area. I don’t

think that they are going to want to come, go up to Mt Wooroolin and look at a great big

stinking hole in the ground. Jason said it was all about financial growth in the area, but it’s

not, it’s about us, it’s about what we want and what’s best for us and I think they need to

take that into consideration and listen to us. Finally, I don’t know about you, but for me

$185 a year off my electricity is not going to cut it. I am not going to sold out for my health

and my peace of mind.

83 The MRV earnings and estimate could be guide only

I just read the whole document of the state of the project and I want to read out one sentence

“future earnings and estimates are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied

upon as an indication or guarantee of future performance”

84 Asthma will be a big issue

I’m a father of eight children, I just want to mention that this mine would be a big health

detriment to all our children. Think of your grandchildren, your children’s children.

Especially those children with asthma.

To the state and federal governments, How will this

affect the UN rights of the child and human rights, rights for a healthy living, clean air and a

healthy upbringing. It would also affect other close by towns, Nanango, Wondai, Murgon

85 Independent monitoring of the mine is the only trust worthy means to do it.

Water quality will be a big issue. We don’t want to leave the cat in charge of the canary.

Someone, other than MR needs to do the monitoring.

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86 Moved to Kingaroy 25 years ago because her son and daughter are asthmatic. Both

Grand daughters love coming to visit Kingaroy.

87 It’s personal.

I’m a Vietnam veteran and loud incoming noises are likely to be followed by loud outgoing

ones. Loud noises trigger reactions from the past. My issues is noise and my wife is an

asthmatic so dust. At no stage has Moreton Resources addresses the impact upon people

who are not directly impacted upon by the mine upon. We live here for the country

lifestyle because my son in law and daughter and grandchildren live here also and support

me. They are directly impacted by the mine. What about how the mine would affect

rainwater that we all drink. None of this has been addressed by Moreton in any of its

proposals and I am dead against it.

88 The health impacts would be devastating.

89 I grew up here this is my home town. I would like to raise a family here, it’s a great town

the people are friendly and earnest. I’m saying no thank you to your mine.

90 Move to Kingaroy from Auckland because it is more than 500metres above sea level. I

suffer from bronchial problems and I’m pretty sure if this coal mine were to go ahead

within 2 years I would be dead. We should oppose this; I oppose it very strongly.

91 I’ve lived in this area for ten days, I am from Melbourne. I have a background in careers

and employment. In the long run there are more opportunities in agriculture and renewable

energy than in mining.

92 I am a resident of Kingaroy – my concern is about water quality, land valuation and how

will they control dust?

93 Save one life, how many will subtly die because of this one mine will never be known.

Attended Private Hospital meeting – going ahead because if they can save one life they will

be happy. MR will cause health problems – will they feel responsible for this?

94 From Oklahoma. Look at the rate of cancer in Singleton for a glimpse of the future is mine

went ahead.

Moved from Sydney and often drives through Hunter Valley region, specifically Singleton.

At least someone in every second house has cancer. I came here to live in a real community

and have peace of mind.

95 Idea : objection

All Kingaroy residents need to be base line tested before the mine begins. Should be at

MRV expense.

Can we place an objection based upon medical conditions? If each person in Kingaroy with

a medical condition went to the doctor to ask how their medical condition would be affected

by the lights/dust? I’m sure the doctor would have something to say about this. Maybe we

should all stand together and look at the issues we have as a community, and use our

weaknesses as our strength.

96. Employment Security

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Started work at PCA in 1996. Company employed hundreds of workers running 3 shifts. 15

yrs later, factory 3 shifts only in one areas (VA) other areas are just one. Farming is at the

mercy of mother nature. Droughts, floods, etc. let alone the damage from this mine. Local

peanut supply is going down, more so is farms converted to mines. Our jobs are risk if

peanuts become scarce/