Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
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Surat Basin continues to boom Leading the State and Nation in employment and investment growth.
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inside this edition
The Newspaper The Surat Basin News will publish every second month and will be delivered via the three dominant newspapers of the region: the Chinchilla News, Western Star and Dalby Herald. It will reach the homes and offices of almost 20,000 living, working and playing in the Surat Basin, connecting the business and mining communities throughout the booming region. Plans are to make the newspaper more frequent as the development increases.
The Vision Surat Basin News is not a necessity. It was born out of a passion for Australia's fastest growing communities — a passion for a region of unbridled potential and a future of vast economic growth and opportunities.The newspaper, professionally designed and regionally topical, will be a must read for anyone associated with the exciting Surat Basin. Surat Basin News will allow local businesses to network and communicate with everyone in the 300 sq km basin, providing unprecedented access to new clients and markets. It will give a revealing insight into major industry while lifting the veil on current and proposed developments. It will be there for each and every announcement shaping the region's future while profiling the colourful characters that define our communities.
View Online With the Surat Basin region receiving national attention, Surat Basin News has gone online to ensure our readers in every corner of the country has the latest news sent directly to them. View our previous editions on www.issuu.com/suratbasinnews
down tobusiness
in theNews
The Team
David Richardson General Manager Laurell Ison Advertising Beth Walker Graphic Design Tegan Plant Editorial
pages 4-9
Wandoan residents pave the way for landowner negotiations with the signing of a buffer zone agreement between Xstrata Coal,Western Downs Regional Council and the Wandoan and District Liaison Committee. QGC join with Lifeline to provide new counselling services for the Western Downs region.
"The RSPT (Resource Super Profits Tax) has created significant uncertainty for the future of mining investment into Australia and would impair the value of previously approved projects and exploration to the point that continued investment can no longer be justified," Xstrata Plc chief executive Mick Davis said after Xstrata announced earlier this month suspending $586 million of expenditure.
pages 14-21
A close up look at some alternative uses for CSG water, with the Kenya to Chinchilla Weir Pipeline and Origin’s Pongamia plantation.The housing crisis continues with effects now showing on childcare. Resource companies show us how they prepare for potentially devastating risks of fire and flood this summer.
building theBasin
Placesandfaces
pages 22-29 pages 30-36 A look at companies getting involved in Surat Basin operations, including Vantage, Onsite and Knights.We talk to the developers behind the new shopping centre in Chinchilla, and a new business opening up in the region. Real Estate and an update on the Surat Basin Industrial Park show how development is proceeding.
advertisers index BHD Oilfield Services ....................................32 Black Cat Queensland....................................18 Brandon & Associates ..................................29 Budden Contractors ......................................25 Calibre Aviation..................................................7 Chesterfield ......................................................16 Chinchilla First National Real Estate ............2 Chinchilla Fluid Power....................................33 Chinchilla Property Company ......................26 Dalby First National Real Estate ....................1 Dalby Real Estate and Rentals......................31 Dalby Windscreens ........................................16 Daley Furniture Traders ..................................1 DDM Liquid Waste ........................................16 Don Warriners Earthquip..............................12 Downlands College ........................................18 Downs Group Training ..................................19 Downs Water Warehouse ............................33 Easternwell ..........................................................6 Ergon Energy ..........................................10 & 11
Plenty of action this month throughout the Basin, including apprenticeships and improvement of school facilities.The Surat Basin Conference provides a chance for locals to meet resource company executives, and next year’s Energy and Mining expo is launched. Origin bring a local back to the region, and we take a look at QGC’s safety day and the upcoming Gas Symposium.
F K Gardner & Sons Pty Ltd ..........................7 Global Training Systems ................................32 HEQ Services ....................................................5 Hub Real Estate ..............................................32 IOR Petroleum ................................................29 JW Refrigeration & Air Conditioning ........23 KJ'S Signs ..........................................................31 Knights Commercial Laundry ......................33 Lawrence & Hanson........................................25 Loughlin Crane Hire ......................................18 M & P Services (Qld) Pty Ltd ........................1 Maguire Coaches and Travel ........................24 MI Helicopters ................................................24 Murilla Community Centre ..........................24 Murray Purves Betta Electrical ....................31 Onsite Rental Group......................................27 Ostwald Bros....................................................22 Pirtek Chinchilla ..............................................24 PlantRent ..........................................................21 Positive Real Estate ........................................25
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PS & R ................................................................19 Ray White Rural Chinchilla ..........................15 Robbie Taylor & Sons Heavy Haulage ........27 Satin Touch ........................................................24 Southern Cross Ford......................................17 Speciality Services QLD ..................................7 SQIT ..................................................................27 Surat Basin Property Group ........................30 The Rental Warehouse ..................................19 Tilly's Crawler Parts ......................................13 Trades and Services ..............................34 & 35 Tresed Liquid Waste ......................................22 Urban Land Development Authority ............9 Vantage Holdings ..............................................3 Wandoan Realty ..............................................16 WDS ..................................................................22 Westbrook Trailers..........................................16 Why Not Kates..................................................8
Bruce Booth B B h Principal 0427 669 123
Angie Willoughby P Peter E Etheridge h id Leanne Healy Sales Consultant Consultant Sales Consultant Sales 0438 656 981 473 947 0427 640 423 0427
Looking for industrial land or sheds? We have a variety available! Call Bruce Booth on 0427 669 123 PAGE 2
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
106 Glasson Street Chinchilla Qld 4413 07 4669 1966 office@chinchillafn.com.au
this WEEK
Support for local communities is lacking The major companies involved in the development of resources have been seen to be supporting the communities they are involved in with projects that provide for health and safety through to supporting our schools. They should be congratulated for their willingness to make sure that the local infrastructure does benefit from the resources being cleaved from our land. Providing assistance for our schools, opportunities for our service clubs and sponsorship for all manner of events has been thankfully received.This support in our small communities does help to benefit all who use and utilise the services. Our schools have been the beneficiary of some major projects driven by the Federal Government and the GFC, this has also been welcomed.These schools have also
Buying four nails at the local hardware does not constitute supporting local business been reporting record increases in their enrolments each year, thanks to the influx of families working in the resource or associated industries. One of the greatest benefits for our children is that we no longer see them have to leave our towns to secure their future employment. Our young adults now have a choice to make, which career they want and in what country town.
With employment we have seen a lot of our local men and women now working in the sector catering for the burgeoning resource industry, earning higher incomes than they ever thought possible a few years ago. It would be rare across our population to not know some friend or member of the family who does not now gain their annual salary from resources. We have been fortunate also to have some of the imports moving to our towns and becoming involved in service clubs, schools, sporting clubs and associations. These are all good benefits from the resource boom, but their are also some disadvantages that should be highlighted as well.With all good there is bad and the role of our community leaders and companies is to make sure that the down side has limited impact. The great things these towns and their people offer is a lifestyle, friendship and a relaxed life.They are parochial about their towns and people, and about their sport with competitive attitudes that have been formed over more than one generation. These are what make our communities strong and proud and we hope this never changes.These are the things we offer everyone who wants to become part of the great lifestyle in rural Queensland. With the ever developing gas and mining infrastructure being built in our western communities, there is also the obvious differences in the local economies, with retail and non resource service industries
finding very difficult trading conditions. The concern is that with a large influx of new people we have forgotten what it is like to be parochial and supportive of all
who are part of our community. Some local businesses are reporting a loss of trade, and when you think about the extra income earned, the question must be asked why. Do we no longer support local business, has it become that easy to shop out of town? The cost might be slightly higher in the local shops but the consumer should consider they are not only buying the product or service, they are also
helping to support every school, every club and every event in town.The greatest supporters of local things have always been local business. While on the subject of businesses it is hoped that the major corporations when hiring outside contractors point out that supporting local is considered to be the right thing to do when they come into our towns.The major companies have a social conscience but it appears a lot of the associated businesses flocking out here do not have the same considerations.The lack of common courtesy that some of these businesses show can only be described as arrogance at it worst.There are reported instances where appointments have been sought by local organisations and some of the responses have been, “I’m too busy see me in four weeks time”; “you need to talk to head office - but I can’t tell you who you should speak to”; “ we don’t care about you or your event, we’re only here to service the contract.” To these businesses, if you think you can move out here and walk over people, then your place is in the city. Maybe we should revisit one of Joh’s suggestions - place a gate at the entrance to the Surat Basin and if you truly want to enjoy and interact with the good people of this region we will let you in without charge, to the others we hope that common sense will prevail and you will realise there is much to be gained from joining our communities, not destroying us.
NEW HOM
DESIG E NS
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
PAGE 3
in the
page 4 page 5 page 6 page 7
Wandoan negotiate for their town
Surat Basin News award winning
Easternwell work at local level
QGC and Lifeline join forces
Buffer Zone Agreement for Wandoan signed
"They actually listen to us, which is a big start," Mr O'Mara said.
In a monumental moment in the struggle between the primary and resource industries, Xstrata Coal and the Western Downs Regional Council last week signed a High Management and Buffer Zone Agreement for Wandoan. The formal signing highlights the cooperation between the Wandoan and District Liaison Committee,Western Downs Regional Council and Xstrata Coal to achieve the agreement. Wandoan Coal Project executive general manager Steve Bridger said a two kilometre mining exclusion zone will be established around the township of Wandoan as part of the agreement. "We've been working closely with the Wandoan District Liaison Committee to negotiate the buffer zone and discuss measures to reduce the impact of the mine operations on Wandoan," Mr Bridger said. "We are happy that we were able to sit down with community leaders to find a solution - we want Wandoan to be a vibrant and liveable community for locals and our employees." Wandoan and District Liaison Committee chair Bill Blackley said he was encouraged by the process of this important milestone. "The community of Wandoan, after four years of negotiation, is pleased to sign off on an agreement with Xstrata," Mr Blackley said. "It is anticipated that with the extra monitoring sights and the filtering effect of the green zone to be planted within the two kilometre exclusion zone, that the liveability of Wandoan will be preserved." Mr Blackley on the day of the signing said that the agreement, which includes planting a green zone in a mosaic pattern to better filter out noise and dust, as well as first flush converters for all rainwater tanks within the two kilometres, was a credit to the goodwill of Steve Bridger, with whom real headway had started to become apparent in the negotiations process. "I'd like to thank the Council, they've been with us right from the word go,…we especially asked for the agreement to be formed with Council, because it doesn't matter what happens to this little group (the Wandoan District Liaison Committee) the Western Downs Regional Council will still be going…and it was all just about the liveability of Wandoan," Mr Blackley said. Fellow Wandoan District Liaison Committee member Graham O'Mara said Xstrata had been really good to work with throughout the process. "They actually listen to us, which is a big start," Mr O'Mara said. Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Ray Brown has welcomed the momentous signing of the two-kilometre buffer zone agreement around Wandoan by Xstrata after considerable campaigning by local residents. "Western Downs Regional Council is delighted at what has been achieved for the Western Downs region and now the small community of Wandoan will benefit into the future." PAGE 4
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
NEWS
page 8 page 9
QCLNG update
Cougar Energy fight back
Award winning coverage of the Surat Basin recognised “It’s an important publication for the region and enjoys a wide readership within the community and the energy and mining sector.” The Surat Basin News has been recognised as an award-winning paper at the recent Queensland Country Press Association awards. Surat Basin Publications manager David Richardson received his exercise for the day collecting seven awards over the course of the presentation evening for publications from Chinchilla, including Best Commercial Feature and Best Newspaper Supplement - Stand Alone for the Surat Basin Energy and Mining Expo Directory, as well as Best Newspaper Employing two or less journalists, any circulation for the Surat Basin News. “To receive the Best Newspaper award for the Surat Basin News after only being in existence for four years is a true testament to this publication”. “ The content, layout and technical excellence were all a factor in the Surat Basin News receiving this award,” Mr Richardson said.
Collecting the seven awards, including six firsts, was a proud moment. "The awards are a recognition of the effort and dedication from past and present employees at the Chinchilla News as well as our other group publications," Mr Richardson said. The annual awards event received nominations from 36 community and non-daily newspapers across the state for categories including advertising and campaigns through to photography, editorial and best newspaper. Surat Basin Corporation general manager David Breese said the awards certainly recognise the quality of the publication. “The Surat Basin News is accessible to a broad readership wtih the online version, and they’re not afraid to tackle the big issues for the region,” Mr Breese said. “It’s an important publication for the region and enjoys a wide readership within the community and the energy and mining sector.”
“To receive the best newspaper award for the Surat Basin News after only being in existence for four years is a true testament to this publication”. Labour, Crane and Diesel Services Regionally HEQ Services is a dynamic and progressive Labour Hire, Crane Hire and Diesel Maintenance Company servicing the Mining and Energy Sector throughout the Surat Basin. With over a decade of experience in both the Bowen and Surat Basins, we have a strong safety culture and are quality assured to AS4801, ISO14001 and ISO9001 Standards. Heavy Tyre Fitters Operators (Mining/Civil) Trades People Operators Electricians Trades People Administration Managers
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PAGE 5
in the NEWS
Local focus integral to Easternwell Locally based Easternwell still operates on a local level despite it's growth. Following the announcement that Easternwell secured several well servicing contracts with Santos with a combined value of $102 million, local communities are set to benefit through local employment and local procurement of goods and services. Easternwell operates over 70 rigs throughout Australia, 20 of which operate in the Surat and Cooper Basins. The contracts will directly employ approximately 100 people including 80 field and 20 town based positions for rig crews, camp management, catering and
It is important to ensure that with the growth of the new LNG industry in Queensland we help to build local business capability construction, training and administration. Easternwell employs over 1000 people Australia wide. A majority of employees reside in Queensland with approximately 65% coming from regional areas of the state. 99% of Easternwell's employees reside in Australia. The vast majority of the supply chain required to perform this work for Santos will come from
PAGE 6
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
Queensland based companies. It is expected that the award of the Santos contract to Easternwell will contribute more than $70 million to the Queensland economy over the next three years. The regional economy is expected to be a particular beneficiary as five of the top ten suppliers to Easternwell (food, fuel, transportation, equipment and ancillary services) are based in the greater Toowoomba region. Easternwell CEO Troy Campbell said we first started working with Santos in 1989 when we had less than 20 employees - now we have over 1000 employees. "We have a long and successful relationship with Santos," Mr Campbell said. "These contracts create job security for our employees and paves the way for Easternwell to continue to grow with Santos. "It also supports Easternwell's commitment to local communities through buying and employing locally wherever possible." Santos GLNG Project president Mark Macfarlane said Santos is proud to have supported this local Queensland business and helped it grow to become an Australian-leading energy and mining service provider. "It is important to ensure that with the growth of the new LNG industry in Queensland we help to build local business capability to be able to support the construction and ongoing operation and maintenance of our 25 year project," Mr Macfarlane said. "Easternwell is an excellent example of a company that has adapted and built capability to be in a prime position to work in partnership with the CSG to LNG projects."
in the NEWS
QGC and Lifeline launch Western Downs Counselling Project
Mental health often silently slips unnoticed in rural areas, but for the Western Downs region, that's about to change. QGC Pty Ltd will contribute more than $1 million to Lifeline Darling Downs and South West Queensland counselling services in the Western Downs over the next two years. QGC's general manager land and community management Tony Nunan and Lifeline Darling Downs and South West Queensland CEO Derek Tuffield announced the funding in Chinchilla last week. The funding has been made available through QGC's Sustainable Communities Program. Mr Nunan said this funding is part of QGC's ongoing commitment to rural health in Queensland. "Rural communities in south-west Queensland have experienced a tough year brought on by extensive flooding," Mr Nunan said. "Almost 300 homes and businesses in Chinchilla and Dalby were inundated, in some cases twice.
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"For farmers in some areas it came in the wake of long drought. "We recognise the value of mental health support in these communities and Lifeline is well placed to provide that support." Mr Nunan said QGC puts great weight on rural and regional communities as we will be neighbours for a long time to come. Mr Tuffield said two rural counsellors and a financial counsellor would be initially based from Lifeline's Patrick Street office
counselling, community education, group work, outreach, and mobile services to individuals and families on properties and in rural communities. Newly employed counsellor Renee Hoare said it is great to work within rural
The counsellors will provide face-to-face counselling, community education, group work, outreach, and mobile services to individuals and families on properties and in rural communities. in Dalby pending the establishment of the new Chinchilla office. "It's exciting for the Chinchilla community and surrounding districts that we will be able to increase much-needed client services due to the comprehensive funding provided by QGC," Mr Tuffield said. The counsellors will provide face-to-face
communities. "There's a wide range of issues that will help build my skills as a counsellor," Ms Hoare said. "It's an exciting project that's fulfilling a need out here.There'll be a huge learning curve, I like learning, and I like project based work.
"The pace will be intense and a lot of things thrown at me." The project will work closely with established services and vehicles will be unmarked for confidentiality. Western Downs Regional Councillor Bill McCutcheon said professional counselling is very hard to come by in these areas. "The hardest part is getting the people that need it to come forward, so I hope those links are forged," Cr McCutcheon said. QGC general manager for gasfields Bruce Coats said I think that as an organisation we've had quite an impact on the area and it is right that companies like ours get involved in the community."This project is a way of doing that, and we can't forget that some of our workers may use it too," Mr Coats said. "It's about us not buying friendship but having credibility in a town we will live in."
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Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
PAGE 7
in the NEWS
Going from strength to strength QGC's priority project Queensland Curtis LNG (QCLNG) is going from strength to strength, with development in the gas fields of the Western Downs, along a pipeline network and in the industrial Port of Gladstone. QCLNG is one of Australia's biggest capital infrastructure projects; the world's first liquefied natural gas project based on gas from coal seams; and a driver of a new and world-scale industry for Queensland. The project involves significantly expanding QGC's operations in the Surat Basin and transporting the gas via a 540km underground pipeline network to Curtis Island, off Gladstone, where it will be cooled to a liquid for transport by ship to Asia-Pacific markets from 2014. In the gas fields, construction has started on two gas processing plants and QGC has signed a supply contract for polyethylene pipes for gas field plumbing, water supply and irrigation. Construction of a major water treatment plant and associated facilities continues to progress about 20km south-west of Chinchilla in QGC's "Kenya" gas field. SunWater Limited will build and operate a pipeline to transport treated water from the plant to Chinchilla Weir.The water treatment facilities will benefit farmers, town residents and industry around Chinchilla. This week a consortium of GE and Penrice Penrice Soda Holdings Ltd announced an agreement with QGC to design, build and operate a brine pilot plant at Penrice's chemical works at Osborne, South Australia.The pilot plant is part of a wider initiative by the coal seam gas industry to investigate the technical and commercial viability of producing products such as table salt and soda ash from brine, a byproduct of coal seam gas water treatment. Soda ash is used in glass making. Progress also continues on the 540km QCLNG pipeline network, with MCJV as the main contractors. All of the main 42inch steel pipe has been manufactured and shipped to Queensland and is on its way to lay-down areas in Miles and Dalby. Pipe is being transported from these areas to other locations ready for welding and laying.
In Gladstone, site preparation for the LNG plant is complete. Material loading sites in Gladstone and receiving points on Curtis Island are complete and Gladstone Ports Corporation has started dredging in Gladstone Harbour.
Construction of a major water treatment plant and associated facilities continues to progress about 20km south-west of Chinchilla in QGC's "Kenya" gas field. Construction of foundations for the LNG storage plants and for the living quarters that will house construction workers during the peak of activity at the LNG site is under way. QGC now has more than 3,600 staff and contractors developing Queensland's resources of coal seam gas. BG Group, QGC's parent company, will invest $15 billion in the Queensland Curtis LNG Project during the next three years. QGC senior vice president Jim Knudsen recently told Australia's exploration industry that last year the business spent $2.3 billion - three quarters of this in Australia and more than half - or $1.3 billion - in Queensland.
"We have more than 550 contracts for services and equipment and more than 1500 businesses have registered their interest in being involved," Mr Knudsen said. "Indeed, we expect about half of capital over the next three years and nearly 80% of our operating expenditure over the next 20 or 30 years to be spent in Australia. "QGC recently awarded a multimilliondollar contract to Terrex Seismic. "This is the largest Australian onshore seismic data acquisition contract awarded in recent years and has been won by an Australian owned and operated business." QGC expects to create 5,000 jobs on
average during construction and will provide a $32 billion boost to the Queensland economy over the next 10 years. "This significance of our economic stimulus is reflected in the benefits flowing directly into social services," Mr Knudsen said. "QGC has established Queensland's first comprehensive social impact management plan - one of the most substantial private social investment programs in Queensland's history. "This involves investing $150 million in community programs to mitigate our impacts and enhance the quality of life of the people who live in our project area.
Why Not Kate’s S E RV I C I N G M I N I N G a n d G A S C O M PA N I E S a n d B A S E D a t DA L B Y, Q U E E N S L A N D
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Phone (07) 4662 5175 Email: KATE@WHYNOTKATES.COM.AU PAGE 8
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
in the NEWS
Legal proceedings commenced
Cougar Energy Limited recently announced they have commenced legal proceedings against the Queensland Government and three Queensland Government officials seeking more than $34 million in compensation over their decision to halt the Company's development of its power plant project at Kingaroy in the State's south east. The Company is suing the previous Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM) Chief Executives John Bradley and Terry Wall and current head James Reeves for negligence and breach of statutory duties in their administration of the Queensland Environmental Protection Act. Cougar Energy chairman Malcolm McAully said the
Company had commenced the legal action following advice from its legal advisors that the closure of the Kingaroy project was unreasonable and compounded by the defendants' continued refusal to allow the re-opening of the plant despite a wealth of scientific evidence that its operations posed no threat to the environment. "Based on our legal advice, it is the actions of the Bligh
Government, these office holders, and their unreasonable decisions, that have inflicted a significant loss on the Company," Mr McAully said. "During more than 15 months we have attempted to resolve the forced close-down with the Government and DERM in good faith. However, as all of our proposals have been rejected, the Company is left with no option but to seek Court intervention to redress the loss and confirm Cougar Energy's reputation as a world leading developer of alternative energy projects." Mr McAully said Cougar Energy had not caused any environmental harm at Kingaroy nor polluted the Kingaroy water supplies. No benzene has been detected in any water bores on neighbouring properties since Cougar Energy commenced water testing in March 2010. "The Government and DERM officials have duties to administer the Environmental Protection Act for the purpose of protecting the environment in a way that allows for ecologically sustainable development," said Mr McAully. "Significantly, they have applied the inappropriate water quality guidelines in justifying its actions to close us down." These unreasonable actions commenced with Mr Bradley issuing a media release late on 15 July 2010 stating that the Kingaroy site was to remain closed, notwithstanding that on 14 July 2010 DERM and the Company had agreed in good faith to work together to gather further water tests after an anomalous test result, which was subsequently proven on 16 July 2010 to be false. Mr Bradley authorised the serving of formal orders on the Company on 17 July 2010 preventing the recommencement of operations, even though DERM's own test results on that day found no evidence of chemicals breaching the drinking water standards.
Mr McAully said Cougar Energy had not caused any environmental harm at Kingaroy nor polluted the Kingaroy water supplies.
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Call 1300 138 197 or visit clearviewrise.com.au Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
PAGE 9
opinions Liveability a rising issue
No magic pudding
Partnership terms reviewed Surat Basin energy capital
Bruce Scott, Federal Member Maranoa
Michael Roche, QRC
SBNEWS 12 Mayne Street Chinchilla, QLD 4413 PO Box 138, Chinchilla, 4413 Phone: 4662 7368 General Manager: David Richardson Advertising: Laurell Ison Editorial: Tegan Plant
Editorial At present the greatest threat to our communities is the unaffordable increases in the rental market.With rents hitting highs of over $1,000 per week, it is only a matter of time before non resource workers are driven out of the market and of course our communities.With each week the pressure on our housing continues to build with reports of some resource companies offering double the previous rent to secure accommodation.This paper hopes that the supply and development of land in these rapidly growing regions will be pushed forward. In one instance alone the approval period for residential land has taken over four years, though it is not an isolated case. When approached, the developers have been reluctant to vent their frustrations publicly for fear of recrimination, believing their application will be put further behind in the approval process.There might be a myriad of reasons for the four years to approve a residential development in what has been described as Australia’s boom region but when people are afraid to speak out, for fear of their approval being put on hold it’s not right. Looking on the bright side at least we have more empowered committees looking at the housing problem. There should be a few reports forthcoming, maybe when the crisis is over. A simple answer might be let the developers “develop”.
Howard Hobbs, Member for Warrego
Ray Brown, Mayor
Queensland resources boom are historic ith the launch of the Work for Queensland mining and gas jobs expos and more major contracts being awarded to Queensland companies, it's clear the ripple effect from our gas success story is strengthening communities right across the state. The latest global economic analysis tells us that Australian investment in LNG production capacity is equivalent to nearly one-third of global trade.With more than 3,500 jobs to fill right now and 38,000 more on the way, the opportunities for job seekers and local suppliers to get involved in the Queensland resources boom are historic and here to stay. For every contract awarded, smaller companies in the supply chain are able to diversify, grow and employ more people. Everything from manufacturing, drilling, research, operational maintenance, training and labour services
W
through to retail and hospitality is in demand. QGC Pty Limited recently announced a $120 million contract with Iplex, a division of Fletcher Building for the supply of polyethylene pipe for its gas
COMMENT Andrew Fraser Acting Premier of Queensland
fields in Queensland.This success story follows the award of a contract worth more than $60 million to Iplex earlier in the year for the supply of polyethylene pipe and fittings to Fluor Australia for the Santos Gladstone LNG Upstream Project.To service the new contracts, Iplex Pipelines have announced they will be opening a new manufacturing facility at the Witmack Industry Park in Toowoomba.The Witmack Industry Park is a new development from local Toowoomba company FK Gardner and Sons spanning in excess of 230 acres. International oilfield services company Saxon Energy Services also recently announced they will be establishing a new service centre in Toowoomba and will require 400 new employees. Eventually, Saxon will be supporting 13 drilling rigs from the new Toowoomba base and will encourage locals to apply for a number of new positions ranging from rig managers to mechanics, electricians and safety and training coordinators. Saxon's announcement is further proof of Toowoomba's growing reputation as a drilling service centre. Recently, home grown success story Easternwell announced $102 million in contracts that will create work for more than 80 staff. Canadian-based Savanna Energy Services have also chosen Toowoomba as the home for their first Australian yard.With large demands for food, fuel, transportation, equipment and ancillary
services,Toowoomba's growing drilling cluster is creating opportunities for support business throughout the region. Other local companies have seized the opportunity to reposition themselves following the global financial crisis. Family-owned Maguire Coaches and Travel in Chinchilla has employed more locals thanks to their success in securing a contract to transport QGC workers between the airport and gas plants. Support for local communities directly impacted by CSG operations is also continuing across the region.The Government has expanded the successful Agforward Coal Seam Gas Landholder Support initiative with an additional $1.4 million to include primary producers in the Galilee and Bowen Basins.This will fund an extra 20 workshops, giving participants the tools they need to negotiate agreements and build relationships with resource companies. This program gives people the knowledge and information they need to understand the regulations governing the industry and negotiate the best possible partnership agreements with CSG companies, including land access and financial compensation.Visit www.agforward.org.au to register. The Bligh Labor Government stands shoulder to shoulder with rural Queensland as we continue rebuilding from the summer of natural disasters. Through the last round of the $2 million Building Rural Communities Fund, the Government is offering grants of up to $15,000, including up to $5,000 for capital works. The grants help fund projects that improve the economic, social, cultural and environmental capacity of communities in rural areas such as plans for sporting facilities or volunteer organisations, implementing tourism strategies or building natural disaster resilience. The final round closes on 23 November. To apply visit www.regions.qld.gov.au or call 132 523.
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Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
opinions
Resource Sector Not the Magic Pudding Pudding Day was marked on October 12. It commemorates the publication in 1918 of the classic Australian story of The Magic Pudding story penned by the famed
carbon tax legislation. The so-called Clean Energy Future Bill is a classic piece of magic pudding public policy. The Federal Government and its cross-
We have had the debacle of the proposed resource profits tax, the continued urgings of Greens and others to ramp up the rate and coverage of the Minerals Resource Australian artist and author Norman Lindsay. The story is about a pudding that could be eaten over and over again because it is able to remarkably reform as a whole pudding. Lindsay's classic children's story is an enduring piece of entertainment. It has also come to be emblematic of circumstances where various vested interests have sought to take a piece from
bench supporters would have the public believe that Australia can go it alone, imposing the world's biggest carbon tax on our export and import-competing sectors, without harming growth, competitiveness and jobs. There is no magic pudding when it comes to the world's biggest carbon tax. In fact, analysis of Federal Treasury modelling shows the carbon pricing scheme will reduce national income by $1 trillion by
years (comprising the direct carbon tax costs, higher electricity costs and a 17% increase in fuel excise), offset by a tiny coal assistance package of $1.3 billion. Little wonder then that modelling by independent economic consulting firm ACIL Tasman has found that the carbon tax could force the premature closure of 17% of the country's black coal mines, including six open-cut mines in Queensland, within 10 years. ACIL Tasman also found that under a conservative scenario, the carbon tax also stands to strip the Queensland economy of $13 billion in income in the first 10 years from proposed new coal mines that are now unlikely to go ahead if the carbon tax becomes law.That loss of income translates into a loss of over $1 billion in royalty income for the Queensland Government. Unfortunately public policy in recent times has been riddled with many other
round) jumping in for another piece of the pudding with royalty increases. The trend for governments to require
COMMENT Michael Roche Chief Executive Queensland Resources Council
resource companies to provide substantial levels of social infrastructure as a condition of project approval is yet another piece of magic pudding policy. The Coordinator General's most recent regulatory approval requires a resource company to fund, own and operate traditional government services such as health care, counselling, child care, and education/training. In short, this creates an unworkable precedent for the sector and is an issue worthy of considerable discussion and debate. The strong growth of the resources sector is raising a number of contentious policy
There is no magic pudding when it comes to the world's biggest carbon tax.
a growth sector in the economy in the naive belief that the growth sector will suffer no harm and will simply reform itself. How appropriate then that the Pudding Day was the same day that the House of Representatives voted in favour of the
2050. The architects of the carbon tax legislation clearly believe that the Australian black coal mining industry is the quintessential magic pudding. The legislation hits this sector with $18.2 billion of additional costs over the first ten
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examples of magic pudding economics. We have had the debacle of the proposed resource profits tax, the continued urgings of Greens and others to ramp up the rate and coverage of the Minerals Resource Rent Tax, and two state governments (but fortunately not Queensland's this time
issues around public and private provision of social infrastructure. To request that resource companies provide these services where they have no service delivery experience is fraught, as is the notion that social impact management plans (SIMPs) are a reliable planning mechanism. Resource companies, while well-equipped and geared for resource extraction, are not equipped to deliver efficient and effective community services. Doing so exposes companies to a myriad of legal obligations and uncertainties which all add to the risk profile of undertaking operations in Australia. The risk is that companies will be compromised in their ability to bring projects to market quickly and to engender the trust of the host community.
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PAGE 11
opinions LIVEABILITY IN REGION A MULTIFACETED CONCERN COMMENT Bruce Scott MP Federal Member for Maranoa
he resources sector is bringing immense population growth to the Surat Basin region, but the question still remains: are we ready for it? Wherever I travel in the Maranoa electorate, I am always confronted with the same three concerns - health, education and infrastructure. If our
T
community services are finding it hard to cope now, how will they accommodate the workers and families who are already arriving on our doorstep? We need to make sure that money is invested in our communities to make certain they are prepared for population growth. Health and the shortage of doctors in rural and regional Queensland is one of the biggest issues for communities.There are many small communities which rely on locums in place of a permanent health professional.The government provides incentives for doctors to relocate to rural and regional areas, but there are significant inequities in the criteria for the payments. Towns such as Chinchilla and Roma are classified in the outer regional zone, along with the well-serviced coastal city of Townsville. I commend the doctors and health professionals, including the Royal Flying Doctor Service, who currently work in rural and regional Queensland but more needs to be done to attract qualified doctors to the region permanently. The growing resources sector will also see many more young families moving to our
region. Ensuring that our education facilities are equipped to provide schooling and accommodate more children will be key in attracting families to the region permanently. I have recently started discussions with universities about improving the region's access to postsecondary education with the possibility of establishing 'satellite campuses' in some of our towns. Our hard and soft infrastructure is also under increased pressure from the resources sector.The state of the Warrego Highway has been well-documented for so long. It is encouraging to see road works now underway, but there is still an urgent need for a series of passing lanes, truck stops and the road upgraded to a dual carriage way extending west of Toowoomba into the Surat Basin. Governments need to start thinking about investing and upgrading other strategic roads across the region such as the Condamine Highway as an alternative to the Warrego Highway to cope with the growing demand on our roads. The key to addressing many of these concerns in the region will be securing
New Age Framework for Landholder/CSG Partnership or well over a hundred years Landholders have grazed and farmed the Queensland landscape with minimal interference apart from some prospecting and exploration. With 40 000 CSG (Coal Seam Gas) wells to be drilled, a myriad of pipelines and major trunk pipelines, thousands of CSG workers, noise from rigs and compressor stations, and thousands of additional vehicles running on farm, local State and Federal roads, significant interference is and will occur in the way graziers and farmers run their businesses. Landholders have a secure tenure to the land, however Governments over many years have also offered leases for mining or petroleum exploration over the same land. The unprecedented development and growth of the CSG industry will have a significant erosion of the rights of the original land tenure, a situation not envisaged by our forefathers who
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developed and issued these land tenures. The State Labor Government should be condemned for not recognizing the unprecedented impact of CSG and work with landholders and CSG Companies to strategically plan for this huge development and recognize the rights of existing and future land tenure holders. The way forward is to recognize the tenures granted and make provision for a genuine partnership between the tenure holders. Compensation is presently offered to Landholders however this is minimal and in no way reflects the impact on the original tenure, the business or the region For a genuine Partnership to work you have to have agreement, and that should be for the Landholder to receive a minimum annual lease payment based on a percentage of the value of the revenue that the wells in that particular field produce. Evidence at a recent Senate Hearing heard that one CSG Company produced a total
revenue of $9billion or approx $3.6m annually from each well with the landholder getting $2 500 per well or about 0.074%. Clearly this is insufficient and no basis for a genuine partnership and should be considerably higher. This should continue until the well is decommissioned, sealed and the area rehabilitated. Minimum payments should be legislated for exploration wells at not less than $10 000 per well and production wells at not less than $15 000. Underground pipelines are a significant issue for many landholders as companies preferred route is generally through the landholders cleared land. Landholders should receive an annual per kilometre rate to be determined on the use of the land after construction. Landholders have constantly argued that their land and asset, has been devalued with intensive CSG development. We have to change the formula to ensure that CSG
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
government funding to improve the liveability of our communities.The recent Australian Bureau of Statistics census data will help inform federal and state funding for many proposed projects in the Surat Basin region.With an expected increase in our population, we can hope to see more funding dedicated to the region. Recent reports estimate there will be $800 million per year delivered to the state government in royalties from the Surat Basin region.The LNP has committed to a 'royalties to the regions' programme which, if elected, would deliver a significant investment in Queensland's regional and remote areas.The policy would see a minimum of 25 per cent of mining royalties collected by the state government invested in infrastructure in regional and remote Queensland as well as improving services and liveability in the Surat Basin. There are exciting times ahead for the Surat Basin region and I will be working hard to ensure our communities are prepared to meet the challenges of the population growth heading our way. COMMENT Howard Hobbs MP Member for Warrego Shadow Minister for Local Government and ATSI Partnerships
development, if it is in a suitable location, will add value to the partnership. Regional communities are not getting a broad based benefit from this huge resources development and revenue to landholders will help the benefits flow throughout local communities. The LNP has already announced a strong policy to protect Strategic Cropping land from mining and CSG development, the absolute protection of the Great Artesian Basin, the protection of underground water user rights to an undiminished water supply in terms of both quantity and quality. I will be taking to the LNP Party room the proposal for a new Landholder / CSG Partnership and to further protect our underground water by ensuring any extraction should only occur when it can be shown there is no adverse impact on those aquifers. It is anticipated that further LNP policy announcements on CSG will be made in the near future.
opinions
W
ith the Western Downs reputation firmly established as the Energy Capital of Australia, Western Downs Regional Council is committed to meeting the growing needs of the region to capitalise on the economic benefits of the energy sector explosion. In a recent article published in Queensland’s major daily newspaper it was quoted that 13,400 jobs were created in the Surat Basin Energy Province alone this year.The Western Downs increasing population spurred by the burgeoning resources industry is opening up pathways to employment in the region, faster than anywhere in the nation. But the downside of this jobs boom is that it is generating huge pressures on affordable housing across the Western Downs and the Surat Basin.
COMMENT Cr Ray Brown Mayor, Western Downs Regional Council
workforce to meet the growing needs of the region.The task group is charged by Council as part of a comprehensive program to address the region’s immediate and future skills needs. A comprehensive Skills Strategy will enable us to develop focused workforce development and planning activities that will meet ongoing workforce needs and mitigate the impacts of the emerging resource sector. A lingering matter within the region sparking considerable political and media interest has been the use of water from the coal seam gas industry.The coal seam gas industry in the Western Downs continues to make headlines around the country with further discussions held recently on the SBS Insight television program.The forum was about issues our local communities have raised arising from operations in the agricultural and mining sectors.The program, in particular, highlighted concerns around fracking salt and water usage while allowing a balanced discussion of all the associated issues. Ongoing discussions on the coal seam gas industry have centred mostly on water aquifers and salt concentrations. High on the agenda is to find a solution for salt disposal and a possible direction touted is to investigate the utilisation of salt for value-added industries. As energy developments spur ahead in the Surat Basin,Western Downs Councillors recently toured CS Energy’s Work is well underway on delivering a new upgraded power station at Brigalow and regional Housing Strategy that will provide Carbon Energy’s underground coal gasification demonstration plant near Western Downs Regional Council Kogan, where they had first-hand with a clear framework of the issues the discussions with the project managers energy sector is imposing on residential about issues concerning our community. accommodation across the region. Western Downs Regional Council is Through the development of the Housing Strategy, Council is looking at implementing maintaining open dialogue with major measures to provide housing at prices that energy companies Northern Energy, CS Energy,Yancoal, Xstrata and Solar Dawn low income earners could realistically afford, thereby reducing the need for social about their forthcoming operations in the housing. Council forecasts the new strategy region.These and other energy sector companies, in the coming year, will be will be released before Christmas. Also,Western Downs Regional Council has ramping up their operations in the Surat Basin. Council is holding the timely established the Western Downs Jobs and discussions to ascertain where these Skills Task Group to create a vibrant
Western Downs is beaming with energy
companies operations will be heading into the future.The discussions are essential particularly as environmental impact statements will have to be prepared to determine the impacts these companies projects will have on the region. Leading into another storm season road conditions throughout the Western Downs understandably continues to be a widespread concern. In some good news recently,Western Downs Regional Council has been approved $36 million out of its $90 million claim in stage one of the State Government’s flood damaged infrastructure grants, for which the majority is for roads.This is on top of the initial $20 million that was forthcoming for emergent road restoration works which was carried out immediately following the flood events earlier this year.While this is substantial funding it will take a couple years for Western Downs Regional Council to reinstate the region’s road network to an improved standard. In the past month, I have held discussions with Infrastructure Australia about Council’s concern about the deteriorating condition of the Warrego Highway and the local road network as well as the region’s rail and air infrastructure that will directly affect operations in the Surat Basin. I made the most of the opportunity to voice Council’s frustration over the ongoing lack of significant State and Federal funding towards upgrading this national highway and the region’s transport
network. A significant event for our agricultural sector had taken place recently with the recent change of ownership to the Ethanol Plant at Dalby, which is the first commercial sorghum ethanol plant in the world. Council’s discussions with the Ethanol Plant management board have indicated they wish to expand and this will be watched closely with much interest by the agricultural sector. Currently, the plant is operating on approximately 200,000 tonnes of sorghum per annum and any substantial future increase to its operational capacity will result in the forging of a major market for sorghum across the region. Lastly, in a positive move for one local community, mining giant Xstrata has cemented funding towards various community projects within the region.The community projects are in the Wandoan area where Xstrata’s mining operation is based and will have impacts on major infrastructure. Xstrata’s cooperation and commitment towards the proposed projects has been welcomed by the community of Wandoan and Western Downs Regional Council. The road ahead no doubt will continue to present many challenges to conquer, but the bustling energy sector and the flourishing agricultural sector are paving the way for the Western Downs to shine as the new energy capital of Australia.
Western Downs Mayor Ray Brown and Western Downs Regional Council Major Developments and Economic Strategy Manager Jane Holdsworth met with Infrastructure Australia representatives Michael Strutchbury, Tim Mawhood and Michael Deegan.
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
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page14 page15 page16 page17
Chinchilla Beneficial Use Scheme
Origin’s Pongamia plantation
New work space for Origin
Housing crisis hits childcare
Water pipeline to be operational by 2012 SunWater has commenced construction of a 20km buried pipeline that will be used to transport treated coal seam gas water to the town of Chinchilla and local farmers as part of the proposed Chinchilla Beneficial Use Scheme. With construction expected to be complete by December, first water is anticipated to follow soon after. The first project of its kind in Queensland, SunWater will transport treated CSG water from QGC's Kenya water treatment plant along the Kenya to Chinchilla Weir Pipeline. The water will be distributed to farmers along the pipeline through 17 offtake points along the pipeline, and within the Condamine River, between the same boundaries as the Chinchilla Weir Water Supply Scheme. Water will also be used to supplement the local town water supply through the Chinchilla Beneficial Use Scheme. This will ensure the total volume of CSG water produced is used within the Scheme. The water will be treated by QGC to the water quality standard determined by the Department of Environment and Resource Management (DERM), taking into
PAGE 14
consideration environmental requirements and public health. Prior to commissioning, SunWater,Western Downs Regional Council and QGC will have a Recycled Water Management Plan (RWMP) in place to ensure there are the required safeguards around drinking water supplies. This plan will be reviewed and approved by the Office of the Water Supply Regulator (within DERM) before any water is discharged into the weir. SunWater's general manager of infrastructure development Mark Browne said there had been a lot of interest from the local community to gain access to the water provided by the project. "Providing the district with a significant additional water supply means the possibility of more local employment and financial benefit to the community," Mr Browne said. "SunWater's aim is to provide a beneficial CSG water management solution for regional Queensland," Mr Browne said. "We are very excited that the development of this pipeline will ensure this for our customers in the Chinchilla region."
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
business
page18 page19 CSG water venture explores alternatives Disaster planning
APLNG are thinking outside the square. Addressing the continuous debate over the use of CSG water, they have commenced a trial commercial 300ha Pongamia plantation at their Spring Gully property north-east of Roma, in a venture that has a diverse range of byproducts. The Spring Gully gas project is owned by Australia Pacific LNG, a coal seam gas to LNG joint venture between Origin, the upstream operator for the Australia Pacific LNG project, ConocoPhillips and Sinopec. Origin manager land, environment and stakeholder Rebecca Pickering said the decision to commercially trial and irrigate the Pongamia plantation was part of Australia Pacific LNG's commitment to using the water from its CSG production activities for other beneficial projects. "Australia Pacific LNG was the first CSGLNG operator to build its own reverse
Companies prepare for summer
Pickering said. "The ability to create biofuel and stock feed from the seeds of the Pongamia plant is well known, and provides the potential to create new local industries from a crop which has a lifecycle of more than 100 years. "The fact that it will co-exist with current industries without displacing existing crops is an added bonus.We will also be providing a platform both in research and in testing for the development of a potential new agricultural industry based on the Pongamia plant." The crop consists of 170,000 trees which are irrigated with treated CSG water from the Spring Gully reverse osmosis treatment plant. The Pongamia irrigation project trial commenced in May 2008 as a way to make best use of treated CSG water and was
used to produce biofuel. Pongamia is also drought resistant, grows rapidly, does not require significant
fertilisation and is a sustainable crop where every part of the plant, down to the last leaf, can be utilised. Its potential uses include conversion of the oil to biodiesel, production of protein meal for stock feed and electricity generation and plant fertiliser from its waste streams. Each tree can produce up to 80 kilograms of seed per year. This seed has up to 40 per cent recoverable oil content which is suitable for the production of biofuel used in conventional diesel engines. It is expected that APLNG can reap the benefits of a first crop of seed in 2014.
The ability to create biofuel and stock feed from the seeds of the Pongamia plant is well known. osmosis water purification plant and this large-scale commercial Pongamia plantation is a first for Australia," Ms
chosen because of its potential to yield a host of useful bi-products seeds harvested each year, such as biofuel, which can be
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PAGE 16
Maranoa Regional Council has granted a developmental approval to Origin to construct a new central operations hub in Roma. The proposed $18 million administration and service facility, located on the corner of Billy Bob Way and Lindsay Court, will accommodate production operations, administration, logistics and stores, drilling operations and work space for up to 80 employees. The facility will become one of two main regional bases for Origin which is responsible for construction and operation of the gas fields and pipeline for the Australia Pacific LNG project. Australia Pacific LNG Chief Executive Officer, Mr Page Maxson, said the hub would boost Australia Pacific LNG's operational capabilities and was part of the organisation's commitment to attract and employ an increased local workforce. "This facility represents Australia Pacific LNG's commitment to long term investment in the region and will provide an ongoing source of indirect employment opportunities for local businesses," Mr Maxson said. Mr Maxson said the organisation had a
commitment to the region and recently pledged $1 million to the Maranoa Regional Council's Roma Airport redevelopment. "The funding is earmarked for the expansion of the airport car park and apron, complementing upgrades to the terminal building, access road and runway," he said. "We value the constructive relationship we have with Maranoa Regional Council and remain committed to working with them to ensure the benefits from the Australia Pacific LNG project flow through to both Roma and the wider Maranoa communities." Origin Group Manager CSG Operations, Justin Post, said the state-
of-the-art facility would also double as an integrated operations control centre for Queensland, coordinating all of Origin's people, equipment and activity across the gas fields. "For more than 15 years, Origin has been a part of the Roma community and we look forward to continuing that relationship for many years to come," Mr Post said. "Investing in this new facility and growing our local workforce is just one way we are expressing our commitment to the community." Maranoa Regional Council Mayor Robert Loughnan commended Australia Pacific LNG on the decision to construct the operations hub in Roma.
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Chinchilla’s two speed economy Daycare lists grow longer by the day as renters pockets come up empty in Chinchilla's two speed economy, as the housing crisis continues in the region. The amount of families waiting on childcare spots to become available in Chinchilla and surrounding areas continues to grow faster than the resources boom contributing to the shortage. In a time where quality child care is scarce the continual price rise of rentals is only worsening the situation. Cassie Byrnes is a home based educator who has been providing care to kids in Chinchilla for three years but with rising rent prices has decided to close her doors in January. Ms Byrnes was advised that the house she and her partner currently rent in Middle St will be moved to make way for a new
to my parents next year," Ms Byrnes said. Although the rental situation contributed to Cassie's decision to close it was not the only factor affecting her choice. "Hopefully by making the decision now it will give my parents enough time to find another spot but of course that is becoming increasing difficult." "Home daycare is like a family, it is really sad." However, Ms Byrnes remains positive about her future and has decided to enrol in further education. "We probably will have to leave Chinchilla...but it will be a good challenge," she said.
Mayor Ray Brown said he is aware of the tough child care and rental shortage facing Chinchilla and surrounding areas. block of units. "We started looking around and couldn't find cheap enough housing so I will have to close down the business and not offer care
"At the end of the day there are lots more people out there worse off than me." Like many Chinchilla businesses, local daycare Center Charley's Place worker
Selena Rinehart said rental prices are becoming a chief concern for their staff. "It's not really an issue for our home carers at the moment but it will be a problem for our staff in the near future; we are expecting to lose staff because they can't afford the rent in Chinchilla," Ms Rinehart said. Mayor Ray Brown said he is aware of the tough child care and rental shortage facing Chinchilla and surrounding areas. "We are happy to fight the cause but we can't subsidise child care, it is not a core business of council but it is a part of our community and I will keep the pressure on in an advocacy role," Cr Brown said. "I don't want solely mining towns...it is not our core job to provide housing but we
are looking to State and Federal Governments to provide funding and make partnerships with private developers." "We certainly will be a partner to it...we have to deliver services to our community but we aren't directly responsible for it." The mayor said it is also an issue that resource companies need to take responsibility for. "EIS's (Environmental Impact Statements) are all very well and good but commitment to them is another thing," Cr Brown said. Minister for Community Services and Housing, Karen Struthers was contacted for comment but unfortunately did not respond before Chinchilla News went to print.
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Fire and flood be prepared... This is the message reaching Queensland this summer, as both fire and flood risks sit high early in the season, and landowners are concerned with the amount of land now owned or occupied by resource companies, that enough measures are in place to prevent a fire or flood disaster this season, and that adequate emergency response strategies are in place if the events do occur. After an extreme wet summer over 2010-11 and a drying winter with many frosts, a built up fuel load in the Surat Basin coming in to a summer season is a concern for fire experts and councils. Mayor Ray Brown said recently this coming high fire season presents particular challenges for the rural fire brigade and property owners due ot the above-normal bushfire conditions. "The region could potentially be facing its worst grassfire season in a long time as the risk of fire is extremely high, particularly due to the continuing high temperatures and the unprecedented fuel loading across the region," Cr Brown said. "Most landholders will have a significant build-up of bush and long grass, which can pose a dangerous fire hazard." On top of this, the Bureau of Meteorology
warns that while it will be milder than last season,Australia can again expect a second La Niña event in two years. The Bureau's website details that conditions in the Pacific Ocean are conducive to the early stages of a late forming La Niña event, and if the ocen currents in this area continue to cool we can expect a weaker version of the events of last summer. Other key indicators such as trade winds, cloud and the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) are reaching similar thresholds. If such an event occurs, northern and eastern Australia would again experience above average rainfall, however the oceans to the north of Australia are currently cooler than this time last year, and the Indian Ocean is showing a positive dipole event, which escalates the chance of below average rainfall over south-eastern and central Australia
during spring. These conditions may help to lessen the impact of rainfall on the region. Companies who experienced the effects of last summer's rainfall have taken mitigation measures this year, and are also taking on board the threat of fire. Chinchilla's Linc Energy site manager Denis Kruger said they have been working with DEEDI to report dam levels. "We'll adopt the same strategy we used last year (for accommodation, staff consumables and transport logistics)," Mr Kruger said. "We've documented lessons learnt and will be planning ahead for the next event." Mr Kruger said the Linc Energy site have 40 base staff but can have 90-100 people at any time on site with technical support staff and contractors, who must all sign in and sign out.
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"Our Health, Safety and Environment and Emergency management plans are all up to date, and I feel we have adequate planning in place," Mr Kruger said. Mr Kruger said the site also works to reduce the risk of fire on a regular basis. "With our heavy equipment we have a preuse inspection which includes checking the fire extinguishers on every vehicle," Mr Kruger said. "Fire breaks have been developed around our properties, and we lease properties out so they are stocked…this reduces the amount of fuel for the fire. "We also have annual training by a third party provider in first response fire training, and a fire response trailer with backburning equipment and other tools stored in a central location and maintained in a weekly inspection."
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
Email: admin@blackcatqld.com Website: www.blackcatqld.com.au
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Continued from page 18.
Mr Kruger said the main site is also slashed and mowed to keep the fire risk at bay. "We have done backburning in previous years under a permit and take advice from our local warden," Mr Kruger said. An Origin Energy spokesperson said Origin has strategic plans, guidance documents and procedures that have been implemented since the floods earlier this year. "Origin has also worked with our local landowners to conduct slashing operations, construct firebreaks and conduct back burning where appropriate to manage fire risk to our people, sites and the communities in which we live and work," the spokesperson said. "Origin has learned a number of lessons from the past seasons extreme weather events and these have guided our approach to this summer season. "We are committed to investing in our infrastructure to improve performance and future proof our operations where we can." Origin also said following last storm season, they have developed Brisbane based quick response teams to assist our sites with logistics and emergency preparedness.
"Over the past year a number of our employees have responded to assist local residents and councils in flood and storm affected areas, including hands on volunteer assistance to preparation and relief efforts around Dalby, Chinchilla, Miles and Condamine and Surat," the spokesperson said. "Under the direction of the disaster coordination centres this included assistance with evacuations by 4WD, loader and truck; sandbagging activities; first aid and medical assistance; doorknocking to distribute and collect flood information; cooking for volunteers and SES staff; rubbish removal; and working in individual homes to help remove destroyed goods and other cleaning activities." In preparation for this season, Origin have carried out water modeling to better understand the effects of potential rainfall on dam levels within the project catchment area. They have also developed extensive water modeling across all ponds at our Talinga and Spring Gully facilities to ensure each pond can handle extra inflows from storm activity and maintain their integrity during these events. "Our Environmental and Operational
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Group have developed extreme weather response guidelines in consultation with DERM," the Origin spokesperson said. "Origin has also purchased extra equipment such as water pumps to ensure transfer capacities between ponds are unaffected." QGC vice president corporate Brett Smith said QGC takes bushfire preparation and safety very seriously. "We're committed to working with landholders, fire authorities and others on bushfire mitigation and management plans," Mr Smith said. "The QFRS recently used QGC's "Billabong" property near Dalby for a successful training exercise involving our staff, 40 volunteers and the Queensland Ambulance Service. "Wells and infrastructure are built on graveled pads and vegetation around them is regularly maintained. In the event of a bushfire this will provide a fire break." Mr Smith said QGC has also constructed firebreaks around our properties and facilities. "Many QGC properties are grazed which assists to reduce fuel loads," Mr Smith said. "These methods are standard land management practices and are used by our neighbouring landholders and government
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departments. "QGC and the QCLNG project are preparing for the upcoming storm season by ensuing emergency plans are up-to-date as well as undertaking "on scene coordination training" and a storm season desk top exercise."Mr Smith said QGC's Emergency Management System is based on best practice and its objective is to be able to respond and recover from all hazards. Other resource companies in the Surat Basin Region were approached for their mitigation and emergency measures however did not provide Surat Basin News with the information prior to going to print.
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Phone 07 4662 7368 e: advertise@suratbasin.com.au e: editorial@suratbasin.com.au 12 Mayne Street PO Box 138 Chinchilla Q4413 PAGE 19
building the
page20 page 21 page22 page23 Surat Basin Industrial Park progress
Canaga Court open for inspection
Chinchilla Park Estate proves popular
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NEW INDUSTRIAL PARK FOR SURAT BASIN Local property powerhouse, Surat Basin Property Group, have almost completed Stage 1 of the new Surat Basin Industrial Park and are giving local businesses and investors in the region first option on purchasing in the 55 hectare master planned development. The first stage of the purpose built Surat Basin Industrial Park boasts 28 lots ranging in size from 4000sq m to 1.16 hectares and there are a further 17 large scale allotments planned for stage 2 which will range in size from 4000sqm to 4.04 hectares. Registered title of Stage 1 is anticipated to be available as soon as January 2012. The Industrial Park has been designed to be the premier site for medium to heavy industry in the region. Strategically located just two kilometres west of the Chinchilla
business owners seeking to relocate or establish their business here," Mr Holmes said. "But before we take this development to a national and international market, we wanted to offer it first to local businesses to give them first option on this prime real estate." Surat Basin Development Group provides a 'one stop shop' for purchasers at the Industrial Park, from the development of this estate, to in-house and external consultants, designing premises to meet clients' specifications to their awardwinning builders to construct and to Surat
Basin Real Estate who will lease or sell the finished product. Mr Holmes said as a result of the massive development of new industries in the region, we have blue chip tenants with long-term requirements already queuing to take space in the Industrial Park. "This is a great opportunity for locals to purchase as owner/operators or investors looking for excellent financial returns. The time to act is now,� Mr Holmes said. Bruce Holmes of Surat Basin Real Estate can be contacted on mobile 0402 348 695,or 4669 1790.
Chinchilla is proving to be extremely attractive to business owners CBD and 200 metres from the Warrego Highway, the development has general industry zoning making it suitable to a huge range of businesses. And with a wide-set 30-metre road reserve with asphalt finishing, underground three-phase power and phone services, parklands with off-street parking, rest areas and gravel hardstand to all blocks just some of its many features, there has already been huge interest in sale and leasing in the development. Local commercial and industrial real estate expert from Surat Basin Real Estate Bruce Holmes is the man in charge of sales and leasing of Surat Basin Industrial Park. Mr Holmes said we are mindful that many local businesses are only just now getting contracts signed off on major future works so we are offering them the option of a low deposit so they can secure a site now and be ready for the expansion of their businesses. "Industrial land is scarce in the region and being so close to 80% of the major works happening in the Surat Basin, Chinchilla is proving to be extremely attractive to PAGE 20
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
BASIN
page24 page 25 page26 page27 Knights bring cleaning expertise
Developer’s new centre opening soon
Electrical supply needs catered for
Surat Basin property
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATIONS MEET
Canaga Court townhouses provide central location Ideally located within 600 metres of Chinchilla's central business area is 'Canaga Court'. The clever design of the six, two-level townhouses means that each has a unique floor plan and outlook but collectively they present an alluring sight with crisp white render, warm weatherboard accents and well thought out landscaping. As you enter each of these townhouses you will be surprised by the light and airy feel that pulls you from the foyer into the air-conditioned open plan living and dining. The well appointed 2 pac kitchen features stone bench tops, Italian 'Ariston' stainless steel appliances and the convenience of a breakfast bar. The large windows and sliding glass doors provide views of the lush grass of the fully fenced, landscaped courtyard and breezy outdoor entertainment area. As you head up the hardwood stairs and onto the landing of the second storey you catch a glimpse of the multipurpose media room and spacious main bathroom which
features a separate bath and shower and double vanity. Each townhouse offers four bedrooms, with three upstairs and one downstairs, and although the floor plan differs between each residence all feature carpeted floors, built-in wardrobes and ceiling fans. The master suites are welcoming and showcase a walk-in wardrobe, ensuite with double vanity and air-conditioning. Completing each of these well designed homes is a spacious remote entry double garage large enough to accommodate 2 four-wheel drive vehicles. If you have been researching the market in Chinchilla you will know that properties of this calibre are hard to find to rent or buy. To ensure you don't miss out on this opportunity contact the Ray White Rural Chinchilla office today on 07 4669 1911 for more details or to arrange an inspection of 'Canaga Court'.
On Wednesday 21 September, the Surat Basin Corporations CEO David Breese along with CEOs from Regional Economic Development Organisations within Queensland met with key decision makers from Brisbane's State Government office - Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI) in Townsville to connect and broaden the scope for regional development. Mr Breese said that this interaction was a rare opportunity for Economic Development Organisations across Queensland to share their learnings. There is great benefit in discussing the efforts of groups across the entire state. We can save huge amounts of time by not reinventing the wheel. The interaction, coordinated by Townsville Enterprise, commenced with a city tour, showcasing new developments, future projects and tropical expertise within the region, followed by a meeting to discuss Government and regional issues and initiatives. It was not surprising that many of the issues that we face here in the Darling Downs and Surat Basin regions are very similar to those across the state, so it was interesting to see how they are being addressed by differing organisations David Breese said. Regional Economic Development Organisations are promoting a ground
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
up approach in attracting investment, particularly from overseas. By utilising a collaborative approach, it provides opportunities to partner with State Government to progress regional areas. The next meeting of Regional Economic Development Organisation will be jointly hosted by the Surat Basin Corporation and Toowoomba Regional Enterprise in August 2012. Mr Breese said that he looked forward to working closely with the newly formed Toowoomba Regional Enterprise to showcase what the 2 regions have to offer and to learn from the experiences of other similar organisations.
PAGE 21
building the BASIN
Bringing true value to the Surat Basin More than 300 dwellings in the master-planned and streetscaped Chinchilla Park Estate will soon be available at a price that brings true value to the Surat Basin property market. With prices starting at $336,400 for a three bedroom, two bathroom duplex,Vantage Holdings sales manager Ky Vogler
lighting. It will also have its very own park complete with playground area and picnic facilities. The estate will feature timber 'good neighbour' fencing, which substantially increases airflow while still maintaining privacy, as an attractive alternative to Colorbond.
"With 50% of stage 1 already sold enquiry and acceptance has been exceptional,"
said interest in the estate has been excellent. "With 50% of stage 1 already sold enquiry and acceptance has been exceptional," Mr Vogler said. Chinchilla Park Estate is the largest development of its kind in Chinchilla, and has been designed with lifestyle in mind for all residents. Duplexes and freestanding three and four bedroom houses
The estate has been designed to include upgraded landscaping throughout
available through house and land packages are being sold in Chinchilla Park Estate's first stages. Some medium-density housing
including townhouses will be offered further down the track. House blocks in Chinchilla Park Estate range in size from 450 square metres to 615 square
metres. The estate has been designed to include upgraded landscaping throughout, and features entry statements, streetscaping and
Located on the southern side of the Chinchilla township, the estate runs between Price, Windmill and Lloyd streets. Vantage has been building houses in the Surat Basin for a number of years, and has previously built more than 60 homes in Chinchilla, and others at Roma, Tara, Emerald and Blackwater. Phone 1300 720 160 to find out more.
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Your local Onsite team Anthony Upton, Onsite's Pumps Manager for Northern Region, leads a pumping team with unrivalled technical expertise, responsible for providing specialist advice and support for all your pump needs. Together with Scott Burke, Area Sales Manager for Surat Basin, the team combines Onsite's extensive range of rental products and services with a strong local and regional understanding to provide superior solutions. For specialised application advise on your next project please contact - Scott Burke on 0459 200 170 or scott.burke@onsite.com.au to arrange a site inspection.
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Knights deliver shining service to Surat Basin Commitment to cleanliness is what Knights Commercial Laundry Service is all about. A family owned business, Knights have been providing a laundry service to Toowoomba and the Darling Downs since 1897. With over 110 years of expertise combined with the
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building the BASIN dedication of long-term employees, Knights have been able to expand their operations from Toowoomba to Kingaroy, Ipswich,Warwick, Stanthorpe, Tenterfield, Goondiwindi, Dalby, Chinchilla, Miles, Roma, and Injune. Director Tanya Trevarthen said a unique feature of the Knight's headquarters is that part of the original building is still in use today and we have fashioned a modern state of the art commercial laundry inside its heritage listed walls. "Our main business is laundering linen to Australian Standards," Ms Trevarthen said. "This consists of bed sheeting, towelling, bedspreads, doonas, blankets, hospitality, table linen, work clothing, uniforms, floor mats and all contaminated items. "Knights currently service remote camps, motels, caravan parks, hotels, hospitality,
restaurants, health industry, commercial uniforms and schools.These are all serviced with our own vehicles." Ms Trevarthen said Knights is also a one stop shop. "We can price and supply you with all new bed linen, sheets, blankets, doonas, pillows, mattress protectors and shower curtains," Ms Trevarthen said. "You don't have to shop elsewhere, we can supply new linen and launder all your linen. "We also offer a permanent marking service to identify your products." Ms Trevarthen said Knights philosophy is to work closely with all business, providing professional family service of hygienically and thermally clean linen to control quality, and implement the use of trolleys and bulk bins to reduce lifting stress on their staff.
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Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
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Spinks & Co looks to new projects after completion of its new $16m Woolworths Chinchilla. Brisbane based developer Spinks & Co are pleased to announce the opening of its new long awaited Woolworths Chinchilla Shopping centre in early November 2011.The project has taken just over 12 months to build and complete on time and budget ready for the 2011 Christmas trading season. Centrally located on over 2 acres in CBD of town,Woolworths aim was to help Spinks & Co consolidate the retail heart of Chinchilla and focus on the CBD, existing retail traders and the interests of the local chamber of commerce. "From the start we knew the importance of keeping the CBD heart of Chinchilla vibrant and active. The long term future of the centre relies on a strong CBD were people know they can get all the goods and services they need." The centre comprises a 2800m2 Woolworths, 600m2 Reject Shop, 460m2 of specialty traders, an ATM and over 180 car parks. "This will definitely help keep retail dollars in the
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"This will definitely help keep retail dollars in the town and keep local employment figures healthy." the mining industry that need professional development property solutions." Spinks & Co are currently developing a new $9m commercial premise for the State Government in Gladstone and are currently looking at projects in Charleville, Roma, Mt Isa,Townsville and Rockhampton. Spinks & Co have 20 years experience in property development and delivery of new projects valued in excess of $650m. Its clients including Woolworths, Coles,Westpac, NAB, Qld State Government, Reject Shop, Red Rooster, Qld Xrays, Brisbane City Council to name a few.For any property development enquiries please contact Spinks & Co: Office: 07 3003 4555, Mobile: 0411 116533 Email: martin@spinksco.com.au Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
PAGE 25
building the BASIN
Sparks fly in Chinchilla with electrical wholesaler opening L&H are proud to announce the opening of a new branch right here in Chinchilla. Stocked to the brim with over 3,500 product lines, electricians in and around the Chinchilla area now have a wide selection of product to choose from to suit their business covering electrical, safety
PAGE 26
and industrial strength items. L&H have been servicing the needs of electricians around Australia for over 125 years. We've been expanding our network to many areas to
ensure we provide our customers with the best in product, price and convenience when choosing who to source their electrical product from. In fact, we've embarked on
a new customer service program to ensure we do just that. The "OUR PROMISE? GREAT SERVICE" program is designed to deliver unrivalled service to our customers consistently across the country. At L&H Chinchilla, our branch manager Campbell Densley and his dedicated team are ready to prove it.
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
L&H have been servicing the needs of electricians around Australia for over 125 years.
building the BASIN homes with superior fittings and inclusions, including 6 zone reverse cycle ducted air conditioning and a full movein package.These homes will be snapped up by locals, energy industries workers and premium corporate renters and are anticipated to achieve tremendous capital gains.The $10,000 Queensland State Government Building Boost, provided to everyone that builds or purchases a new home in Queensland is a great help, and is likely to create even more demand for Setting a new standard of housing in Miles,The Pines parkland community is located a few minutes from the Miles CBD and is set to complete construction by Christmas with new homes commencing construction immediately afterwards. Masterplanned by Surat Basin Developments and Surat Basin Homes,The Pines is a premium residential development with hectares of open parkland, walking and bike trails, BBQ areas and ponds featuring in the development.The Pines is being transformed into a beautiful, useable recreation space to be enjoyed by families living and working in the community. Surat Basin Developments have developed some of the most prestigious developments in Chinchilla including Sovereign Park Estate and are now looking forward to their first residential development in Miles. With the local community as top priority and ensuring that the homes they design and construct are of the highest quality and factor in liveability and low maintenance, Surat Basin Homes aim is always that the people who live in the homes can fully enjoy their leisure time. Project manager Jack Egan is the main man behind this project. Mr Egan said The Pines will provide a fantastic lifestyle for it's residents, hence the inclusion of all the recreation spaces, totaling nearly 7 hectares. “ These areas will be a place where families can get together on weekends, have a bbq and couple of drinks, a friendly game of cricket, the kids
The Pines setting a new standard of housing can ride their bikes around, and afterwards, you can just walk home" Mr Egan said. The development offers a wide range of house and land packages. For buyers with specific requirements or looking to add their special touch, Surat Basin Homes offers a custom home design service. Block sizes are an impressive 800 - 1000 sq m with a selection of blocks around 2000 sq m and others up to a whopping 2 acres. In a recent independent report compiled by respected property expert, Michael Matusik, it was found that the annual growth in median house prices in Miles has averaged an incredible 23% per annum over the past 10 years.With new houses in Miles now renting for between $500 and $575 per week, it's fantastic news for property owners in Miles. Mr Egan said we're getting a lot of enquiry from savvy locals who have realized how much their existing properties are now worth, and are planning to use that home as equity, rent their original home out, and then upgrade to live at The Pines. With a purchase price from $417,400, The Pines offers contemporary designed 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2 living area
The Pines. The boost is available to contracts for new homes prior to 31 January 2012. The tax free boost is likely to be used to furnish the property, add a swimming pool or be put towards the mortgage. There are also major financial benefits of buying a house and land package including buying direct from the developer and substantial savings on purchase costs as you only pay stamp duty on the land component of the purchase price. New houses are built to higher standards and environmental considerations with higher efficiency ratings and 'greener' products used in new homes and due to the warranties and quality workmanship in Surat Basin Homes there are minimal or no maintenance issues. It is anticipated people will need to act quickly to snap up these homes. Being amongst the first to buy will mean purchasers can lock in the price based on today's prices - and given all that is happening and about to happen in and around Miles, there is an opportunity for terrific capital growth on the land to be made, even before the house is built.
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PAGE 27
PLACES
page 28 page 29 page 30 page 31 Surat Basin Conference
Origin announces apprenticeships
2012 Energy and Mining Expo launched
Future is bright for Roma and Surat Basin The overwhelming message from last week's Surat Basin Conference in Roma was that the future for the Surat Basin is extremely bright. Over 200 delegates packed the Cultural Centre to listen to a wide array of speakers who outlined many of the projects present and planned in one of Queensland's and Australia's most important resource regions. Speaking on behalf of Mining Minister Stirling Hinchliffe, Skills Queensland CEO Rod Camm opened the conference and said the state's resource sector was a crucial part of the national economy. "Queensland's economy is recovering after the global financial crisis and we are now second in terms of confidence and growth in the last quarter," Mr Camm said. "The mining industry will grow 38,000 jobs new in Queensland over the next few years." Mr Camm said there would be a massive amount of activity in the Surat Basin and Gladstone due to coal seam gas. His comments were endorsed by Thursday's keynote speaker Santos GLNG CEO Mark Macfarlane. Mr Macfarlane said Roma held a special
dealt with. "We need to have the support of the local community behind us and be responsible stewards of the environment as well as create economic opportunities," he said. Mr Macfarlane then joined a panel of top executives of the four gas majors with Andrew Faulkner (CEO, Arrow Energy), Jim Knudsen (Senior Vice-President, QGC) and Paul Zealand (Executive General Manager, Origin). The panel discussed sensitive issues such as water and 'fly in fly out' (FIFO). Mr Macfarlane said the critics who say the Great Artesian Basin would be affected, ignored the numerous studies done by regulators and other authorities that found no impact. All four executives admitted they had to use FIFO staff but said they preferred to use local contractors where possible. Mr Knudsen said QGC's pipeline workforce was entirely FIFO. "It's a transitory thing, they are there for 18 months and then gone again," he said. Origin's Paul Zealand said the gas industry has led to big changes in the region. "Roma is now a more vibrant place than seven years ago," Mr Zealand said.
Bruce Holmes - Surat Basin Real Estate, Ed Hoffman WDRC and Laurell Ison - Surat Basin News
place in the hearts of many in the Santos community. "Roma is now emerging as a genuine world renowned gas hub," Mr Macfarlane said. Mr Macfarlane said Santos was deve-loping a $14b industry but needed to form "respectful and humble" relationships with the landholders they PAGE 28
"The opportunity is there to build social infrastructure to make people want to live here. "We have to work how we can work together to build the capability to attract those people." The conference also heard from demographer Bernard Salt. Mr Salt said Australia is undergoing a
Students get new science centre
Queensland's reserves of coal and gas were the right product in the right place at the right time
Ben Hughes - Surat Basin Life and Paul Larter - QGC
profound change in its relationship with the interior of the country, and said this region would play a crucial role in the years and decades to come. "The story of Australia is in part the story of the Surat Basin region," Mr Salt said. "Here we have a valuable and vulnerable commodity the rest of the world wants as it attempts to shore up its energy supplies." Mr Salt said Queensland's reserves of coal and gas were the right product in the right place at the right time but warned Australia would have to redefine its relationship with world superpowers. "It's a different ball game with a new superpower after our coal and gas," he said. "In the 19th century we looked to Britain, in the 20th century we looked to the US but by 2020 China will be the biggest economy in the world." Mr Salt said the Australian population meanwhile was migrating to the coast meaning the resource regions had their work cut out if they wanted to avoid being fly in fly out centres. "The regions need to re-engage with the Australian people to get a shift in values," he said. Mr Salt said we needed some nation building initiatives in the interior to create bigger towns. "This is a 21st century perspective of Australia, however the Canberra mind set is stuck in the south and the 20th century."
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
Mr Salt said surveys showed the biggest impediment stopping people moving to resource regions was the lack of housing and social infrastructure. "The great challenge for Maranoa Council is to retain the sense of community as its towns change over the next 20 years," he said. According to Minister for Agriculture, Food and Regional Economies Tim Mulherin, the Queensland Government has undertaken planning so that the resource boom is not to the detriment of other local economic drivers, such as agriculture. "I am pleased to see the effort that the people of this region are putting into working towards the co-existence and growth of both sectors. "We have been working closely with local government, the community and industry members to ensure the boom region continues to be a place where families want to live, work and raise a family. "The collaborative approach the Surat Basin community, local councils, industry, state government and union representatives have taken in addressing this growth must be praised. "They have been integral in creating a shared vision about what is needed in the Surat Basin for the future." Mr Mulherin said the community, councils, industry and government have produced the Surat Basin Future Directions Statement to address critical issues such as planning and settlement patterns, economic development,
& FACES
page33 page34 page35 page36 Origin recognises Scholarship program recipients McNab searching for apprentices
Origin brings back local to region
Twenty-three deserving apprentices from across the Surat Basin ditched their uniforms for a night of celebration and recognition. The 2011 Origin Community Skills Scholarship program recipients were officially recognised at a presentation ceremony in Miles.
Queensland Country Meats to become a fully qualified butcher. "Being able to work as a butcher with Queensland Country Meats means I have achieved a lifelong dream," Ms Wendt said. "With a commitment to what you want to do and a little bit of help you can achieve a lot."
said Origin's Skills Scholarship Program was about supporting local communities in the gas fields to build and retain skills. "It's a way to help the skills base and help people stay within the community and it's also about giving back to the community" Mr Maxson said. "Its' growing every year in both the
"I'm stoked to be awarded an Origin Community Skills Scholarship.The money will really help me to buy the tools I need to start out with and it will help cover my TAFE fees. I might not have been able to do a local apprenticeship without it," Dylan said. The scholarship recipients were selected
Over drinks and dinner the apprentices were treated to a speech from previous scholarship recipient, Roma's, Sandra Wendt. In an inspiring address Ms Wendt said that with the help of the scholarship she was able to complete her apprenticeship at
The program, now in its fifth year, is a partnership between Origin and local businesses that enables apprentices in the region to receive up to $13,500 in scholarship payments while they complete apprenticeships in the local area. Australia Pacific LNG, CEO Page Maxson
numbers and geographic area I think it started around miles and chinchilla and now it's much further." Scholarship recipient Dylan Callaghan is a first year apprentice builder and carpenter, working for Calabah Constructions in Chinchilla.
for their desire to build a career in their local community. All apprentice trades listed on the National Skills Needs List are encouraged and businesses that employ an Origin Skills Scholarship apprentice will also receive financial incentives.
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Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
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Surat Basin Energy & Mining Expo promotes excellent business opportunities for 2012
The official dates were announced for June 20 and 21 2012
MINERS and partners alike celebrated the launch of the Surat Basin Energy and Mining Expo at Toowoomba on September 28. The official dates were announced for June 20 and 21 next year with the event to be held at the Toowoomba showground's. This year's event broke all record for a trade even in the town, in terms of the number of businesses which were
Australian Events said, "We'll target areas of Australia where there are established mining and energy industries and we'll be involved in major energy and mining reports through national media, as well as numerous energy and mining trade magazines". These strategies along with regular media releases, radio interviews and updates, social media and other opportunities are
Due to the increased demand for exhibitor space for 2012, Australian Events have added a further 100 sites to the layout
aimed at getting the right delegates to attend the event.
For further information visit our website www.suratbasinexpo.com.au.
represented and the number of delegates who attended as well as the benefit to the local economy. The mining expo is designed to support the Queensland resources industry while providing an excellent environment for businesses to network, market and generate sales, leads and industry contacts. Due to the increased demand for exhibitor space for 2012, Australian Events have added a further 100 sites to the layout. Therefore already making the event much larger than this year's. The new and creative marketing of the mining expo will build on the success of the 2011 campaign by adding new strategies to further strengthen the awareness and build a desire to attend the event within the target audience. APN Newspapers will be used extensively from Central NSW to North Western Queensland along with campaigns integrated into digital TV programming, which their research has shown are popular with people interested in attending this event. In-flight magazines on domestic and international flights will be used, along with local and national main stream television, radio and print options. Paul Niehus, Marketing Manager for
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places and FACES UNITS FOR SALE Two strata titled units are up for sale in this classy triplex. They are designed with individuality in mind....... these aren't just boxes joined together. Careful thought has been put into comfortable living, both inside and out. Each unit features a flowthrough from lounge, kitchen, and dining, opening onto an alfresco area and private north-eastern garden. The landscaped entrance will be very welcoming. The units will have a great deal of street appeal with open aspects looking onto a landscaped boundary. Although, there is privacy, there will be no sense of being hemmed into a confined area. Pine Street, Miles
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Xstrata fuels science adventures in Wandoan "We are pleased that Xstrata Coal is showing so much support for our school Wandoan State School students will benefit from a new Science Centre that was officially opened last week and made possible by a partnership between Xstrata Coal, Education Queensland and the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA). The Wandoan State School Science Centre is one of the key initiatives under the $720,000 Xstrata Coal Wandoan Education Partnership, which aims to improve pathways from senior school to work in industry for schools in Wandoan,Taroom and Miles. Parents, students and teachers alike were excited about the new learning facility.
Secondary science teacher Aaron Davey said we've got the equipment now to provide more of a hands-on science unit using inquiry based learning. Year six student Hannah Eggerling said the new science equipment would help them with careers later in life. "I want to look at the growth of the world, and helping with new things for cancer, and helping people," Miss Eggerling said. General Manager for the Wandoan Coal Project Bill McKinstrey said that Xstrata Coal was pleased to support Wandoan State School in providing exciting learning opportunities for its students through the new facility.
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"Funding for the centre includes Handson Science Days with visiting experts, field trips and development opportunities for not just students but teachers as well," he said. "We hope that initiatives under this partnership will give Wandoan students the skills they need to take advantage of the benefits and opportunities that will come out of the resources sector." QMEA Director, Rodger Atkins said Xstrata Coal's support in regional areas was essential for industry development. "The partnership is helping create closer relationships between schools and industry," he said. "The expansion of the QMEA to schools like Wandoan,Taroom and Miles means that students are now able to have access to close industry relationships and facilities, to ensure resources sector career and pathways are made obvious for students making career decisions." Wandoan State School Principal Bryan Power said that other initiatives already underway included support literacy programs and extra teacher aide time, funding for school bursaries and incentives grants to Wandoan district employers to hire apprentices. "This is a fine example of what can be achieved by the education sector and industry working together," Mr Power said. "We are pleased that Xstrata Coal is showing so much support for our school and we look forward to continuing this partnership into the future."
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011
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Toowoomba company to expand through apprentices The number of staff at McNab is set to increase with the construction company looking to employ more apprentices despite a reported slump in the building industry. McNab has continued to be a solid performer in an industry that has seen its biggest downturn in the last two years due to less new work and a drop in consumer confidence. Managing Director Michael McNab said the company was fortunate to secure projects in the energy and commercial construction sectors throughout Queensland thanks to the hard work of staff and great customer relationships. "We've worked hard to put ourselves in a great position moving forward and we're committed to seeing the company continue to grow by helping our younger employees develop through the ranks," Mr McNab said. "We currently have 24 apprentices on the books throughout our three offices, more than half of which are based in Toowoomba." Mr McNab said the company was looking for three more enthusiastic and talented
people to take up apprenticeships in Toowoomba. "When we recruit we do not recruit just for future tradespeople - we recruit people to develop to become Foremen, Contract Administrators and Project Managers," he said. The McNab apprenticeship program offers on-the-job learning and allows senior and
more experienced site staff to mentor apprentices to ensure they have the
preparation and skills to reach their potential. One of their current employees, Jake Sherwin, is three years through a Certificate III qualification in carpentry, which he says loves for the variety, and has really enjoyed working with McNab since 2008. "You get to work with your hands outdoors with a great bunch of blokes. It's a big company and you get to work on a lot of big jobs. They give you a lot of variety and there's always an experienced person around a great bunch of blokes to offer support," he said.
"When we recruit we do not recruit just for future tradespeople - we recruit people to develop to become Foremen, Contract Administrators and Project Managers," he said. Alfagomma Quality Hose & Fittings
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PAGE 33
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Local returns as voice for Origin advertising
A little local knowledge goes a long way, and Origin hope that newly appointed Queensland CSG regional Manager Rob Hart will slide right back into the community he grew up in. Based in Chinchilla, Rob will work closely with employees, the community and landholders in the region keeping them informed of Origin's activities and operations including the Australia Pacific LNG Project, and responding to local issues. Origin general manager, Australia Pacific LNG project delivery Janet Hann welcomed Rob's appointment. "Previous experience and community feedback has shown the importance of having locally-based decision makers and staff available to address local needs and issues," Ms Hann said. "This will enable us to better understand the priorities of the Western Downs and Maranoa regions and work constructively to resolve any issues. "Rob is a natural fit, especially since he was originally born in Chinchilla and is
already well known to many people in communities within the region. "He brings a wealth of resource sector experience having worked in Australia and overseas for 14 years with the Royal Dutch Shell Group in a variety of different roles from retail, marketing to business development and issues management."
Mr Hart said he was looking forward to starting his new role in Chinchilla. "It is great to return home with my family after so many years away. I am very much committed to building on the solid work already done by the Origin team in the region," Mr Hart said.
"Origin is committed to supporting local communities in the gas fields in which we operate. We are committed to minimising the impacts of CSG production on the environment. Over the next few months I intend to meet key community representatives and stakeholders throughout the region." Mr Hart grew up in Chinchilla on a property, and in his time away has worked for the Royal Dutch Shell Group, Flight Centre, Norco, a dairy cooperative and retail distribution agribusiness. He brings his wife Kate and three children, and they are enjoying settling back into a Chinchilla lifestyle of fishing in the Condamine and playing sport. Origin is the upstream operator of the Australia Pacific LNG Project, which includes development of existing coal seam gas fields in the Surat and Bowen basins and construction of a 530km gas transmission pipeline from the gas fields to an LNG facility to be developed on Curtis Island, off Gladstone.
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Queensland Government to host Gas Symposium Top-level experts and industry leaders from across the world will gather in Brisbane on 7-8 December 2011 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre for a two-day International Gas Symposium hosted by the Queensland Government. The program will showcase global coal seam gas (CSG) to liquefied natural gas (LNG) opportunities and the key challenges facing the sector as countries around the world prepare for the transition to cleaner energy futures. The event will give delegates access to a selection of high-calibre speakers with a working knowledge of the international and Australian CSG and LNG markets. Queensland, Australia, is poised to become a global leader in producing and exporting LNG. Queensland is home to the world's largest
CSG/LNG projects and has 98% of Australia's proven CSG. Join industry leaders and experts for an engaging two-day program to learn more about the latest global market trends, environmental management and best practice regulation, technological innovation, investment and supply chain opportunities. Some of the keynote speakers include: • Noel Tomnay, Head of Global Gas,Wood Mackenzie • Ian Cronshaw, Consultant to the World Energy Outlook, International Energy Agency • Queensland Premier and Minister for Reconstruction,The Honourable Anna Bligh • Queensland Treasurer and Minister for State Development and Trade,The Honourable Andrew Fraser • Jim Knudsen, Senior Vice President, QGC • Mark Macfarlane, President, Santos GLNG • Page Maxson, Project Director, APLNG • Andrew Faulkner, Chief Executive Officer, Arrow Energy
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Craig Lowndes to feature QGC Safety Day in Tara V8 Supercar driver Craig Lowndes will feature at QGC's inaugural health, safety and environment Tara Field Day. The free community event will be held at Tara
Showgrounds on Saturday, 29 October from 10am to 4pm. QGC senior vice president Jim Knudsen said Lowndes,
who is QGC's safe driving ambassador, would offer great tips on safe driving, drawing on his vast experience. He will be on hand from 11am to 2pm to speak about the enormous amount of work that goes into keeping him safe behind the wheel - even in his hazardous job. "People will find great tips about driving that they might not otherwise get as part of our commitment to making our roads - and our lives - safer," said Mr Knudsen. "The open day is designed to entertain and interest people in a subject we take for granted - safety at work, at home and in the community." As part of the open day, QGC is featuring some of its big equipment - including a drilling rig and spider plough with discussions about how they work and how QGC ensures it operates them safely. QGC staff will also explain coal seam gas through handson kitchen chemistry displays. People can also test their skills or those of their soon-tobe-driving children on the driving simulator with Fatality Free Friday founder Russell White. The gas industry's rescue helicopter and crew will also be on site as will safety, health and environment experts to talk about topics as diverse as snake awareness, stress and nutrition. Local community groups are also supporting the event through showcasing the work they do for the community. Entries in the QGC schools art competition will be on display in the pavilion, with great prizes including a Haro BMX bike, art packs, fishing gear and footies handed out to the winners on the day. Other great prizes will be up for grabs in the passport competition where visitors simply pick up a passport on entering the ground and get it stamped at the numbered booths. Local charity fund-raising stalls will include Tara Apex selling food,Tara Ladies Auxiliary selling tea, coffee and cakes and Tara Scouts running a drinks stall.
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Surat Basin NEWS
Surat Basin NEWS Thursday 27 October 2011