Surat Basin News March 2020

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The next generation of Stanwell recruits PAGES 18-19

How COVID-19 is affecting our region’s projects PAGE 4

Women powering the Surat Meet the women who are energising the resource sector towards equality PAGES 6-7

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02 NEWS

THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

EDITOR’S WORD

Our region is diverse, resilient and strong Snap of the month

RIDING HARD: The 62nd Annual Bell Show held in early March may be the last show held in the Surat Basin for 2020 after the coronavirus outbreak.

inside Largest windfarm project..................................... 4 Australian Concrete Mats......................................5 The women energising our sector.....................6-7 Smashing gender norms.......................................8 New measures in place for COVID-19...................9 Burnett River Machinery Repairs .......................10 Central Queensland mine overhaul......................11

Nuts Bolts and Fasteners.....................................13 Western Downs Civil............................................14 Navigator Pitch Challenge winners......................17 Tarong welcomes new recruits......................18-19 Warrego MP on Lock The Gate...........................24 ............................................................20 21-23..........................................

THE NEWSPAPER The Surat Basin News publishes every month and is delivered via the four dominant newspapers of the region: the Chinchilla News, Western Star, Dalby Herald and The Chronicle.

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

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

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

THE TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Erika Brayshaw, Chinchilla Phone 4672 9921 Email Erika.Brayshaw@chinchillanews.com.au ADVERTISING TEAM Jodie Williams, Chinchilla Phone: 4672 9900 Email: Jodie.Williams@chinchillanews.com.au

EDITORIAL Jodan Philp Phone: 4120 1017 Email: jordan.philp@ newsregionalmedia.com.au SURAT BASIN NEWS 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla Q 4413 PO Box 138, Chinchilla Q 4413 The Surat Basin News is published by Chinchilla Newspapers Pty Ltd, 12 Mayne Street, Chinchilla Q 4413. The Surat Basin News is printed by News Corp Australia

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AS THE powerhouse region of Australia, the Surat Basin is in a strong position to take on any challenges - whether it’s floods, drought, economic downturn or, as each of us is acutely aware of by now, a global pandemic.

Built on agriculture, the Surat Basin’s foundations have been solidified by the expansion of major coal, CSG and renewable energy projects in the past decade.

As Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise CEO Ali Davenport said in her column on page 20, we will weather this storm ahead, despite the monumental challenges.

It’s our resilience, strength and innovation that sets us apart.

You only have to read the amazing stories of locals across southwest Queensland in the pages of the Surat Basin News each month to come to this realisation.

One of those amazing locals is Megan Twidle from Stytchy Wytchy, who took out the major prize at the Business Navigator Western Downs 2020 Pitch Challenge for best New Business Idea. Megan repurposes old jeans, makes her own fabrics and uses them to create one-of-akind clothing and accessories under her label ‘Stytchy Wytchy’.

The competition’s Best Business Growth Idea winner was Annie Cusack, who was recognised for her plan to develop a 12-week online program of exercises, tips and support so that new mothers and menopausal women have access to a convenient and affordable solution to the delicate issue of incontinence. Each winner was awarded $10,000 and will receive invaluable advice to develop their ideas further.

Although a coincidence, it was suiting that the two female winners took out the prizes in March, the month that hosts International Women’s Day. In the pages of this edition you will read the inspiring stories of women in our resource sector workforce and how they are not only helping keep Australia energised, but encouraging the next generation of women to join the industry. There’s a lot of uncertainty ahead, but our strength, diversity and resilience will get us through anything we may face.

- JORDAN PHILP, EDITOR

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NEW WORKHORSE: Fully automated excavators will soon be put to work in the Surat Basin after a successful trial.

Excavators to rock industry full fleet of autonomous excavators.

MP Kinetic business unit leader Richard Butler said the move was groundbreaking for the company and the future of the industry.

“We see autonomous earthmoving equipment as the key to building a new era of construction here in Australia,” Mr. Butler said.

“We see the development of innovative solutions like fully autonomous excavation as a win for our crews, our company, and importantly, our clients.

“For us, it’s not about replacing our people,

it’s about freeing up our skilled workers from simple, repetitive tasks, and letting them focus on the more technical and critical duties within our operations.

“Safety and efficiency will always be at the core of MPC Kinetic’s culture, but it’s innovative solutions like automation that enable us to deliver a value for our business and partners,” he said.

Built Robotics’ CEO Noah Ready-Campbell said the move was a first for the United States too.

“We’ve completed more than 8000 hours of safe and successful autonomous operation on job sites across the United States, and now we’re out here in Australia with MPC Kinetic digging pipeline trenches,” Mr Ready-Campbell said.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have MPC Kinetic as our launch partner in the Australian market. They are a proven leader in deploying cutting-edge technology in tough environments, and they recognise the impact that autonomy can have as a force multiplier in the hands of skilled workers.”

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IN AN Australian first, Brisbane-based company MP Kinetic has started distributing fully autonomous excavators that will dig pipeline trenches in the Surat Basin.

The leading resource and construction firm succeeded in trialling the machinery last year, where a 30-tonne excavator was able to work through an Artificial Intelligence Guidance System developed by US company, Built Robotics.

The two businesses will team up to expand operations in Australia, and hope to distribute a

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THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

200 JOBS IN LIMBO AS WORK STALLS

Licence wait delays project Up to 200 jobs are in limbo as work stalls on the state’s largest wind farm as the Covid-19 outbreak causes havoc throughout the world.

ABOUT 200 workers are in limbo after work on Australia’s largest wind farm stalled, with the company responsible for installing the 126 turbines suffering “frustrating” delays securing a Queensland building licence.

The $850 million, 453MW Coopers Gap wind farm project between Dalby and Kingaroy will create enough energy to power 264,000 homes from July this year.

General Electric and ASX-listed company Boom Logistics have been commissioned to complete the project, with both in negotiations with the Queensland Government since last year to secure approvals to start work.

Approval was granted by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) on Monday, but the licence delay put on hold the installation of turbines from February and has slowed the whole project.

In a note to about 200 workers, seen by The Courier-Mail, GE’s Renewable Energy projects director Carl Allcorn said the time taken to obtain the licence “has been frustrating” and pushed the project’s completion date from July to late August.

“This delay has a corresponding significant impact on costs, already running into millions of dollars and growing by the day,” he said.

Coopers Gap is listed as a co-ordinated project, a special status which allows the state’s independent Co-ordinator-General to use his powers to cut red tape and help deliver the project.

The QBCC, which is responsible for issuing licences, declined to provide details about the case.

“The QBCC has been working closely with all interested parties and are confident we will reach a resolution soon,” a spokesman said.

The Courier-Mail understands Boom Logistics’ licence was being held up while the QBCC worked through the company’s legal and

financial arrangements.

Under new Minimum Financial Reporting laws, companies must have working capital to meet their obligations to subcontractors and suppliers.

Boom Logistics was granted approval on Monday with conditions it provide internal management accounts to the QBCC each month and prove it is compliant with the financial guidelines.

Coopers Gap joins 10 approved solar projects in the Western Downs region that will put more than 2000MW of renewable energy into Queensland’s electricity grid.

Coopers Gap wind farm blowing more jobs to the region RECENTLY the Coopers Gap Community Consultative Committee met at Kingaroy to discuss the progress of the project.

The local community was updated on how many jobs it has created and how much money the project has brought into the community.

The $850 million wind farm project is

currently under way.

The project has created 250 jobs at the peak of construction.

It is expected to create up to 20 jobs once operational.

Construction for the new wind farm has started and AGL head of construction Brian

McEvoy said the wind farm was expected to be completed in September.

“106 of the 123 turbines are already built,” he said.

“And 140MW of power is being generated.

“Generation is expected to increase to 180MW in the next few weeks.

“The wind farm, which is being built for the Powering Australian Renewables Fund, will have a capacity of 453MW and produce around 1,510,000 megawatt hours of renewable energy, enough to power about 264,000 average Australian homes.”

Construction is still under way.

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SURATBASIN.COM.AU THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 AUSTRALIAN CONCRETE MATS

A cost-efficient and sustainable erosion solution Australian Concrete Mats is engineered as an effective alternative to inefficient erosion control methods like rip rap or gabion mattresses Australian Concrete Mats (ACM) is an innovative and permanent erosion protection solution that makes rehabilitation from erosion, stabilising slopes, water channels, inlet/outlet protection, spillways and shorelines easy. Once laid down they start working right away!

Engineered as an effective alternative to inefficient erosion control methods like rip rap or gabion mattresses. ACM is the quick and easy, cost-efficient, sustainable solution to severe and minor erosion issues for small to large scale projects.

Made up of concrete shapes embedded in a high-strength polypropylene geogrid, the erosion mats are packaged in rolls to make transporting and installing them fast and efficient. The rolls are simply lifted, placed and unrolled using standard existing plant and

machinery and installation can be completed in a matter of minutes with no special tools or equipment. The gaps between the concrete shapes provide opening for water permeability, allow for optimal vegetation growth, or for granular backfill when laid, while giving the mats a flexible structure that conform to ground contours and natural landscape, minimizing site preparation. The rolls can be supplied with backing material that will promote the spread of greenery, depending on your soil and conditions and site requirements.

The vegetation layer works to cleanse pollutants from runoff before it hits waterways.

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THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Our region’s inspirational women INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day was held on held March 8, 2020. In light of the special day the Surat Basin News wanted to celebrate three inspiring women from our region.

Leah Cummins A proud Kalkadoon and Mayi woman from the Cloncurry Mt Isa region, Leah Cummins is proud to have worked at Origin Energy for almost 10 years. She plays a key role in Exploration and new Ventures as a Senior Technical Assistant in the Subsurface Data and Application team, helping support all Origin assets.

Recently Leah entered a competition run by Indigenous Women in Mining and Resources Australia (IWIMRA) to give one lucky Indigenous woman in the mining, resource or construction industry the opportunity to travel to New York with IWIMRA to attend the 2020 UN Commission on the Status of Women (UN CSW64), and she won.

Leah was asked to outline in 25 words or less, what attending the UN CSW64 in NY would

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mean to her. Her response showcased her deep respect for her people and her passion to be a real role model.

“By winning this, it allows me to play a role in encouraging remote Indigenous women to reach bigger and better goals and to succeed in any career they choose.

“I am so overwhelmed and grateful to be selected from a large group of Indigenous women in the mining and resource sector. Being EACH FOR EQUAL: Keshia Hilliam loves working for Origin and she is hoping to encourage other women to join the orga able to participate and attend as an Indigenous woman is life changing for me on a personal level.

“I hope it will encourage my fellow sisters in other strong women from around the world to the digital team. She is also a skilled eventing the sector to strive for their goals not only in their when we get to meet up,” Leah wrote. and show jumping rider, owns eight horses and is personal lives, but also in their professional Unfortunately, the trip is on hold until next part owner of Hillco Performance Horses, her careers, especially those in remote areas. I am year now, but Leah is still inspired. family’s stud company. She spends her free time just so thrilled to have the opportunity to meet “I believe every woman is a role model to competing and helping at eventing/show someone else whether they realise it or not. jumping clinics around the state and adores her “My dream is that #Eachforequal means that two dogs, Roxi and Tikka, who help make life people from all races will walk with us, learn complete. from us and see we are all fighting the same fight She’s not your average woman. as mothers, aunts, grandmothers, to be a role Emigrating from South Africa in 2005 she model to the future female leaders in our lives. went on to complete a Bachelor of Animal “We all want to be part of the solution. Going Science from Murdoch University in Perth, back to country rejuvenates my connection and helping pay the way with various modelling spirit and reconnects me with my identity. opportunities. Completing her honours on a Knowledge is wealth, and like education, it sheep farm via the study of comparing muscle, changes lives. Embrace us and walk with us on bone and fat deposits in dorper and merino this journey. I just love being Aboriginal.” breeds, or a combination of the two, when fed on barley stubble for a period.

Keshia Hilliam Next up was working at a stock feed trader in Striving for gender equality in the workplace Perth, followed by a graduate position in is not unique to Origin Energy, but you can rest Canberra at the Australian Centre for assured there are some trailblazing women in the International Agricultural Research and then a team helping actively encourage more women to break for a year off mustering in the Kimberlies. put up their hand and join the team. Keshia is Added to all of this was a job with Mort & Co one of these trailblazers, blending her personal Grassdale Feedlot near Dalby, working as their and professional life to showcase the importance Livestock Health Coordinator, a position which of bringing your whole self to work. provided significant personal and career Keshia is one of Origin’s experienced field development opportunities. operators, currently on a 12-month secondment For Keshia, life is definitely what you make it.

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When her brother encouraged her to join Origin as a trainee field operator in December 2014 it seemed like a great opportunity to learn something new. The Reedy Creek facility was brand new and it meant that she could learn another new skill, while still immersing herself in the equine lifestyle she adored.

“The team is great. The job is what you make it, there are so many different things you can step up and learn if you go outside your comfort zone and put up your hand.

“Origin really embraces this year’s International Day theme #Eachforequal. There are so many technologies to learn, and inspirational people to meet.

“Everyone just treats you as part of the team.

If I can’t do something then one of the guys will step in, but they let me try first, and they don’t give me a hard time if I ask for help.

“The people I work with on site, and now in the digital team are always helpful and inspiring.

Everyone shares the same space and helps each other grow, lifting others to realise their potential.

“Having as many different kinds of people in inclusive conversation is the way forward.

“If I can inspire another woman reading this to join Origin or put their hand up for a position that they wouldn’t normally apply for then that’s

great. Making room at the table for more women across the industry elevates success.

“Give it a go. It’s hard at times, but the journey is definitely worth the ride.”

Leah Cummins is a proud Indigenous woman with a dream that people from all races will walk, learn and see they are all fighting the same fight and to be a role model to the future female leaders in their lives.

Stephanie Usher A proud local woman, Stephanie Usher, 19, from Chinchilla and one of Origin Energy’s newest apprentices is delighted to have the opportunity to gain a trade qualification and develop skills that are portable within the oil and gas industry and beyond.

“I am not only learning great skills, but important relationships with influential figures in industry and beyond, while still being an active member of my local community and being able to hang out with my family and friends.

“I’ve worked in various family businesses since I could walk almost, and I can play pretty much any musical instrument you put in front of me. No one thought I would end up as an electrical and instrumentation apprentice, but this opportunity is fantastic. I’m so excited.

“There is no limit to what you can learn and the things you can do at Origin. The only limit is the one you put on yourself. I am excited by the opportunities ahead, and my family are very proud too.”

Steph Usher is a local woman from Chinchilla and is Origin Energy’s newest apprentice.

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THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

APPRENTICESHIPS

Female tradie smashes gender norms First female at Tarong Power Station to complete an electrical apprenticeship shows just what girls can do in male-dominated industry CAREER GOALS: Cherie Baldacchino celebrates success as the first woman to complete an electrical apprenticeship at Tarong Power Station.

Dr Lix Beavis took the time to mentor and encourage Ms Baldacchino.

“It gave me the chance to see another woman in a maintenance-based role who has had an amazing career,” Ms Baldacchino said.

“It was great to have another female to turn to, who had shared a similar career path, who I could relate to and who could give me some really helpful advice.

“I took control of the things I could control, like the quality of my work, building my skills, and my attitude, and I let those things speak for the type of apprentice I am, not my gender.”

Challenging the cultural stigma of being a female apprentice and being accepted as “part of the team”, Ms Baldacchino has been joined by additional female apprentices.

The young woman has now had the opportunity to mentor other female electrical

apprentices.

“We now have one female second year and two female first years on site, which is incredible,” she said.

She is now working on her Certificate III in Instrumentation and Control, learning how to control the machines and understanding the whole process.

Ms Baldacchino moved from Western Australia to a 101 hectare hobby farm in Kingaroy when she was aged four.

“We grew up being very ‘outdoorsy’ especially being on a farm with 30 head of cattle,” she said.

“I was dad’s shadow growing up and would spend hours hanging around with him in the shed, tinkering away with something.”

During school, Ms Baldacchino studied metal fabrication and woodwork and was

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encouraged by her father to apply for work experience at the Tarong Power Station and Meandu Mine.

“I spent one week at Tarong Power Station, working with units and auxiliary teams, then another week at Meandu Mine with electrical trades people,” Ms Baldacchino said.

“I got to help with the electrical service of a dragline and replace the electrical brushes, which was an unreal experience.”

For her job interview with Stanwell, she decided to make an impression.

“I took a toolbox I had made into my interview,” she said.

“I wanted to show the panel what I was capable of and that I enjoyed doing hands-on tasks.”

Stanwell believes inclusion and diversity is an important part of shaping its culture.

Brothers Tim & Wayne Collie established the business in 2000.

They have built up their business employing local staff, supporting community events and using local businesses.

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“A GIRL can’t do that.”

This is what Cherie Baldacchino’s father would cheekily say, knowing his daughter’s competitive nature.

These words drove the 22-year-old woman to break gender norms and become the first female at Tarong Power Station to complete her electrical apprenticeship.

Working in a male-dominated industry, the budding Kingaroy apprentice felt she had to “prove herself” when she started her full-time apprenticeship in 2016.

“I felt like I had to prove I was ‘one of the guys’ to do well, which led me to struggle with my femininity at work,” she said.

“I realised being a female tradie wasn’t a weakness and I could use that difference as a strength to bring in a different perspective.”

Tarong Power Station’s operations manager

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SURATBASIN.COM.AU THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 GAS COMPANIES RESPOND TO CORONAVIRUS

New measures for gas workers NEWSCORP understands that an MPC Kinetic worker at Woleebee Camp in Wandoan who recently returned to work from Cambodia reported to camp management with symptoms similar to COVID-19.

It is also understood that all workers who were in direct contact with the employee have been isolated.

The Ministry of Health said Cambodia currently had 12 confirmed cases of COVID-19 the latest being a four-month-old French boy who travelled with his father to Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh from Paris.

An MPC spokesman said the company had no confirmed cases of COVID-19, but was actively managing the health issue across all of its project locations across Australia by adhering to Australian Government health guidelines.

The spokesman said the company’s main priority was the health of its employees and the host communities in which it operates.

“We are following all guidance from the health department and relevant authorities, and that includes ensuring any employees who have returned from overseas travel self-isolate for 14 days as a precautionary measure,” he said.

QGC Shell Australia also implemented new measures across all Shell offices and sites in Australia to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

A spokesperson said Shell was actively managing the situation, with the health and

safety of their workers being of utmost priority.

“Additional controls, such as screening, are in place and we have clear protocols should anyone start experiencing symptoms,” the spokesperson said.

“Cleaning at all Shell Australia sites, and assets has been increased, particularly around handrails and other areas where there are communal touch points.”

Regarding travel the spokesperson said all non-essential visits to the field from corporate staff were suspended.

“With domestic travel, the current advice is there is no medical reason to restrict domestic travel,” the spokesperson said.

“As a precautionary measure and in line with the priority we place on the health and safety of our people, we have additional controls, such as health screening, being implemented across all our sites.

“We have also restricted any non-essential business travel where not required for operational reasons, and suspended visits to the field from non-operational staff.

“We are also following all advice from authorities, which includes restricting nonessential travel and self-isolation for anyone returning from high-risk areas as further precautionary measures.

“We continue to provide health updates to our people about COVID-19 from the

MANAGING RISK: As Coronoavirus spreads across the country, gas companies have moved to help limit the spread of the disease.

information by the health department and relevant authorities.”

Origin Energy implemented strict guidelines to employees to limit social activities to less than 50 people, as the energy sector in the Western Downs grapples with slowing the spread of coronavirus and getting on with everyday operations.

A spokeswoman for Origin Energy said there was currently no case of COVID-19 in their workforce but they were taking measures to protect the health and safety of workers and the communities in which they operate.

“We have business continuity plans in place to ensure that we can manage and mitigate any risks to our business and people that may arise.

We have introduced a range of measures to limit the spread of the virus,” the spokeswoman said.

“Site meetings have been limited to less than 50 people and we are advising employees to

limit their social activities to less than 50 people.

“All attendance at external events, training and conferences has been cancelled until further notice.”

She said any staff feeling unwell, with flu-like symptoms or who suspect they could have been exposed, have been self-quarantining.

“All international business travel was suspended earlier this month and anyone who returned from business or personal trips overseas has been self-isolating for 14 days,” she said.

“We note that as of 16 March the Australian Government announced a compulsory 14-day quarantine for anyone returning from overseas.

“Domestic travel has been limited to business-critical matters only. We continue to monitor the situation closely and will update our rules and guidelines as required.”

More than just hose and FIttInGs

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THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Cooks sell up to pursue passion NORM and Kerry Cook have built Burnett River Machinery Repairs from the ground up over the past 14 years, establishing their busy mechanical workshop as indispensable to the Gayndah farming community.

Norm (who looks a lot like his distant relative Ned Kelly), and Kerry have been inseparable since their early teens, building several successful mechanical businesses based around their love of old-world motoring.

They’re now looking to slow down and enjoy tinkering with their other great love – collecting Australiana.

In their spare time they’ve created a unique museum in Goomeri, filled to overflowing with memorabilia – from vintage cars to military collectibles and everything in between.

The machinery business is based on a fullyfenced one acre site on the Burnett Highway, on the northern entrance to Gayndah, with three large sheds surrounded by bitumened and concreted hard standing areas.

The front shed houses a spare parts retail business.

The middle shed is a freight-forwarding depot with 7m tilt-tray truck, delivery ute, 4 tonne crane and 2.5 tonne forklift.

The fully equipped and busy machinery workshop features two hoists, exhaust pipe bender, and airconditioned office.

On separate titles are the three bedroom brick home on a half acre of landscaped garden and shady lawns, with another half acre spare block adjoining.

Enquiries are invited on 0408 935 565.

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GREAT SITE: Burnett River Machinery Repairs has serviced the Gayndah community for 14 years and is now on the market.

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12 NEWS

THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

650 SHORT-TERM JOBS

Repairs to CQ power station are under way WITH Stanwell Power Station set to undergo a $54 million overhaul and maintenance works, 650 jobs and an estimated $10 million in flow-on economic benefits to Central Queensland will be delivered, Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke says.

The state MP said the works would provide more than 650 short-term employment opportunities for a range of specialists and trades as part of a 2019-20 Budget commitment.

“The overhaul attracts contractors locally and from across Australia to fill a range of roles, including welding and boilermaking, mechanical and electrical trades, technical engineering specialists, riggers, scaffolders and cleaners,’’ he said.

“The upgrade is expected to provide $10 million in flow-on economic benefits to the Rockhampton region.

“The addition of this large, short-term workforce means money being spent every day in our region, supporting local businesses, including motels, transport and restaurants.”

Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said the overhaul was necessary to keep the state-run power station running safely, reliably and efficiently.

“As well as the obvious economic benefits for

DELMICK

ECONOMIC BOOST: The Stanwell Power Station upgrade is expected to bring 650 jobs and many flow-on economic benefits to the region.

our region, doing the work now will ensure work will be completed by early September, just in time to be up and running to meet Queensland’s summer peak-demand period,” she said.

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said Stanwell had a critical role to play as the state transitioned to the Palaszczuk Government’s renewable energy vision by providing dispatchable generation into the market and

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ensuring secure and reliable supply for all.

“Power station unit overhauls are a major undertaking that require specialised contractors to work with the Stanwell Power Station’s permanent workforce of 182 employees,” Dr Lynham said.

“The program will include completing an upgrade to the unit’s control and protection systems, which will help ensure long-term

reliability of the control system and provide enhanced automation and control of the plant.’’

Stanwell is Queensland’s second-biggest power station, providing up to 10 per cent of the state’s total energy requirements.

It will continue providing uninterrupted electricity supply into the grid while works are undertaken.

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NEWS 13

SURATBASIN.COM.AU THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 LOCAL BUSINESS SUCCESS

DOM’s here to provide IT’S a sentiment managing director Pat O’Brien from DOM Distribution makes frequently and one he has seen in action.

DOM Distribution has a proud 16-year history of providing the most diverse range of new and used machinery, off-road equipment and agricultural supplies locally, domestically and internationally.

Mr O’Brien puts a large focus on encouraging his staff to think differently because it is individualism that has helped DOM get to where they are today, doing things no other businesses in the region are doing.

“It’s satisfying to watch young staff learn and grow, and I myself, I enjoy learning about new ways to do something or bringing new technology to the community,” he said.

Nurturing the next generation of businesspeople and innovators plays a huge part in Mr O’Brien’s business.

He himself credits two local businesses, Johnson’s Motors and Dalby Moto, as having given him his start to a successful working life

DOM Distribution are here to provide the most diverse range of new and used machinery, off-road equipment and agricultural supplies locally, domestically and internationally.

right here in Dalby.

It’s these same opportunities Mr O’Brien strives to bring to his staff.

“We do have the skills in this town, Dalby has a large history of manufacturing and exporting globally,” he said.

“I think there is still that culture in town and a

lot of that residual knowledge that we’ve been able to source through the community.

“Dalby has long had an attitude of they don’t know they can’t do it, they just think they can.”

Encouraging this attitude in his staff and the next generation has seen DOM Distribution do things other businesses can’t.

It is a strong goal of Mr O’Brien to encourage people, specifically the up-and-coming generation, to remain in the region.

Helping them to see just how many options they have here to still reach every corner of the world is part of what makes DOM Distribution an iconic part of the Western Downs.

NUTS, BOLTS AND FASTENERS

Dalby business a one stop shop for all your building needs Here at Nuts Bolts Fasteners & Industrial we are the largest supplier of all your fastening needs in the Dalby and surrounding region, covering an area from Toowoomba to Roma and from North of Kingaroy to the New South Wales border and beyond.

We have access to all major suppliers who service the engineering, construction and building industries.

Our range is comprehensive and covers everything from small screws right through to large engineering bolts.

Our range also includes stainless steel fasteners, circlips, key steel and a wide range of

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Complementing our range is a wide range of tools, safety equipment and numerous other products.

With our proximity to Brisbane we source most of our stock over night and we also offer a free delivery service within the Dalby town boundaries.

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14 NEWS

THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

LOSSES FOR REGION

Projects, jobs in jeopardy More than 6000 jobs and $50 billion worth of projects are at risk – but not because of coronavirus QUEENSLAND has $50 billion in new roads, rail, mines and other infrastructure in the pipeline for the next five years with major public sector works green-lit, but private investment is well and truly in the “maybe” basket, a major report card released exclusively to The CourierMail shows.

Significant projects such as inland rail, Gold Coast light rail stage three, Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro and upgrades to the Pacific Motorway and Bruce Highway and essential water infrastructure developments are all under way or close to starting, the Queensland Major Projects Pipeline 2020 report shows.

But private investment is badly lagging, and with it the 6600 extra construction jobs riding on the mega projects getting off the drawing board.

The report says there are 222 projects worth at least $50 million each across the state, totalling $50.6 billion, in the pipeline from 2019-20 to 2023-24.

Of that, $27.4 billion is funded and ready to go but another $23.2 billion is still awaited.

While the report says Queensland has plenty of opportunities and reasons to be optimistic – including being well placed to supply the world with green exports and renewable power – it also warns that without government making it more attractive for the private sector to sign up to big projects, jobs are at risk.

“The high proportion of unfunded major project work is reflected in the labour force outlook. Should a worst-case scenario occur with respect to all unfunded projects, then the workforce outlook becomes negative with an expected drop in employment in the later years of the pipeline,” it says.

“In this scenario, workforce demand would not surpass the peak of 15,800 fulltimeequivalent roles in 2019-20 and would drop to 8506 fulltime-equivalent roles by 2023-24.”

On the “optimistic” flip side, if all the projects are funded, demand for workers will increase 40 per cent, even though that would create a supply problem as Queensland competes with the massive amount of infrastructure being built in New South Wales and Victoria.

“We are delighted to see significant growth in the pipeline, with works totalling $50.6 billion scheduled between 2019-20 and 2023-24,” QMCA chief executive Jon Davies said.

“However, there is still an element of risk around the total figure as $23.2 billion of work is not funded at this stage.

“This is mostly down to planned resources

and energy projects, which take considerable time to plan, fund and gain approval.

“Overall there are reasons to be optimistic, with many major projects such as Inland Rail, Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro and upgrades to the M1, Bruce Highway and essential water infrastructure developments beginning in earnest.

“There is also good news for regional Queensland, with significant increases in funded work in the pipeline for the Darling Downs-Maranoa, Townsville and Fitzroy regions, with smaller increases for the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Wide Bay and Cairns regions.”

Co-authors the Infrastructure Association of Queensland said there were “reasons to be optimistic” and the current coronavirus uncertainty showed why we need a plan for the future.

The report says coming to terms with climate change offers Queensland the chance to protect its tourism and farming economy, as well as making money from green energy and mining the state’s deposits of minerals needed for the renewables industry.

It also points to the 2032 Olympics bid as a great catalyst to lift business confidence.

“The 2032 Olympics bid is still strongly supported by IAQ as a platform for step changing Queensland’s global reputation and injecting dollars to uplift much-needed infrastructure to support our population growth,” IAQ chief executive Priscilla Radice said.

“Pandemics are a shocking global reality, but we need to keep an eye on the horizon as we navigate the current storm.”

DARLING DOWNS/MARANOA Population: 128,969.

Where the jobs are: Gas development within resources, rail and renewables.

Funded projects: • Inland Main line Freight Upgrade – NSW/ Queensland border to Gowrie ($1.4b) • Bulli Creek Solar Farm ($525m) • Roma East Gas Project (pipeline component – $113m) • Arcadia Gas Project ($200m) • GLNG Roma East project ($375m) • Australia Pacific LNG Upstream Field Development (Sustaining), Arrow – Upstream Field Development (Sustaining), Gas Project Goog-a-binge ($400m) • Surat Gas Expansion Projects ($1.5b).

On the drawing board: • Western Surat Gas Project ($1.2b) • New Acland Stage 3 Expansion ($210m) • Wilkie Creek ($200m).

Western Downs Civil is a diversified civil infrastructure company based in Chinchilla in the heart of Queensland’s Surat Basin. We provide Civil Construction, Structural Concrete, Earthworks, Rehabilitation, Roadworks, Plant Hire and Technical Project Management services to the wider Surat Basin Region and beyond. Our highly mobile and experienced team specialises in remote projects within highly controlled work environments such as Gas and Power Transmission. With our extensive fleet of internal plant and equipment and our local direct workforce, WDC has the ability to respond to our clients’ needs at short notice and provides the certainty that a safe, high quality and professional standard will be provided at all times, regardless of the time frame or challenge presented. Western Downs Civil focuses on building long-term, high-trust relationships with our clients – so your business can rely on us to successfully deliver your project. Do it Once and Do It Right and get started today with Western Downs Civil. www.wdcivil.com.au | admin@wdcivil.com.au

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NEWS 17

SURATBASIN.COM.AU THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020

WINNERS ARE GRINNERS: Celebrating the successful finals of the Pitch Challenge 2020 ar (from left) Megan Twiddle, Fran Peterson and Annie Cusack.

Stytchy Wytchy best in biz Chinchilla start up wins Best New Business Idea at Pitch Challenge 2020 MEGAN Twidle of Stytchy Wytchy has scored ahead of competitors to take home the best New Business Idea award at the Business Navigator Western Downs 2020 Pitch Challenge.

Six finalists pitched their idea for a new product, service or business to a panel of judges from across the Western Downs business community.

The competition went ahead, although not in front the of the audience as was originally planned.

The finals evening event was cancelled to ensure the safety of all members of the community in the light of the coronavirus health concerns.

That didn’t take the pressure off the competitors who were put through their paces by judges and they sure did deliver.

Well done to the winner of the Best New Business Idea, Megan Twidle and the Best Business Growth Idea winner Annie Cusack.

The judges scored Ms Twidale highly in all categories and were impressed by the overall strength, commitment and market relevance demonstrated.

She repurposes old jeans, makes her own fabrics and uses them to create one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories under her label ‘Stytchy Wytchy’.

Ms Twidle said it was an honour to pick up the Best New Business Idea award.

“I am thrilled with the win and to have been a part of the Pitch Challenge Finals,” she said.

“I think it’s safe to say that my business has made a huge step forward today and I’m excited about the momentum that this win will create for my business.”

Ms Twidale received a cash price of $10,000 for her business Stytchy Wytchy and the opportunity to work with the Business Navigator team to gain advice and hands-on assistance to develop their business idea over

the next 12 months.

Best Business Growth Idea winner, Annie Cusack was recognised for her plan to develop a 12-week online program of exercises, tips and support so that new mothers and menopausal women have access to convenient and affordable solution the delicate issue of incontinence.

Ms Cusack thanked organisers for such a wonderful platform to grow her business profile.

“I want to thank everyone involved for giving me the perfect launch pad to take my business to the next level,” she said.

Ms Cusack will also receive a cash prize of $10,000 for taking out the Best Business Growth Idea category and the opportunity to receive business growth advice and assistance from the Business Navigator team to help market and grow their business.

Finals judge Rob Hart, Managing Director Upscale Pastoral Fund said, “The collective

energy and enthusiasm was fantastic. We were impressed to see how keenly contested both categories were, with the results being incredibly close in both the semi-finals and finals.”

Fran Peterson, Contracts Specialist of Shell’s QGC business commented ‘Clearly a lot of hard work was put in and the finalists really showcased the entrepreneurial talent that is on offer in our region’.

Business Navigator Lead Business Coach, Ariane de Rooy said ’We’ve seen some incredibly passionate people and exciting ideas at this year’s challenge. Congratulations to Megan Twidle and Annie Cusack. We are grateful to Shell’s QGC business for their support and I believe all our finalists have a great future ahead of them’.

Business Navigator is a Shell’s QGC business program delivered in partnership with Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise.

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THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

New recruits charge into Tarong for training TARONG Power Station welcomed eight new apprentices and trainees last month.

Stanwell general manager of generation Brad Perry said the apprentice and trainee program was designed to complement Stanwell’s community involvement strategies and commitment to attract and develop emerging talent.

“With a 34-year plus history, Tarong power stations have been developing, its people are providing a learning ground to grow and make the most of the opportunities and experiences provided,” Mr Perry said.

“The apprenticeship and traineeship program provides structured opportunities for participants to develop their skills in line with industry training standards.

“Our apprentices and trainees have the opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s most experienced and knowledgeable people.”

The apprentices and trainees join a total of 14 beginning their careers across Stanwell Corporation, with the additional six apprentices and trainees placed at Stanwell Power Station.

This group is one of the largest apprentice and trainee intakes at Stanwell and is made up of eight apprentices and six full-time trainees, who READY TO LEARN: Stanwell TPS apprentices ready to learn on the job as they join the Tarong Power Station will undertake various roles, including electrical instrumentation, mechanical fitting and turning, warehousing operations, laboratory rotations to maximise their practical experience, we operate.” techniques and business. within Stanwell’s portfolio,” Mr Perry said.

Energy Minister Anthony Lynham said the “Dependent on their discipline, apprentices “We are committed to strengthening new recruits were among more than 100 and trainees may also have the opportunity to Queensland’s workforce, and will continue to apprentices statewide starting their careers with access a number of internal and external facilitate the upskilling of the regions in which the state’s publicly owned electricity companies.

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Electrical Instrumentation apprentice Erin Newman on the job at the Tarong Power station. (Photo: Contributed)

“All of these recruits are on the path to a great career in a critical and exciting industry with publicly-owned employers,” Mr Lynham said.

“This is Queensland’s next generation of skilled and valuable energy workers.”

Ergon Energy has also taken on an apprentice in Kingaroy.

Electrical Instrumentation apprentice Erin Newman on the job at the Tarong Power station. (Photo: Contributed)

Taking bookings now for 2020 edition.

Phone 4672 9921 for more info.

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NEWS 19

SURATBASIN.COM.AU THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020

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20 NEWS

THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

Region will survive this ordeal ALI DAVENPORT TOOWOOMBA AND SURAT BASIN ENTERPRISE CEO AS WE come to the end of March, I can definitely say that it has been a busy and unprecedented start to the first quarter of the year for TSBE. We have seen the world change dramatically over the last few weeks in the face of coronavirus.

This has changed how many businesses transact in the light of strict health precautions and the cancellation of many events. However our region is uniquely placed to combat the threat of reduced exports and trade.We have many pillars to our economy including energy, agriculture, manufacturing and intensive agriculture and therefore we will recover quicker than most parts of the country.

On the topic of intensive agriculture TSBE Food Leaders Australia recently hosted the Protein 2020 conference in Dalby in early March, which brought together the dairy, pork, beef and poultry industries to share best practice, advocate for common policy change and allow collaboration across the sectors. The key take-out of the conference was around feeding the world in a long-term sustainable way. The different speakers were able to discuss the challenges currently facing the food and agriculture industry, including dealing with contagions like African Swine Fever, future

TSBE CEO Ali Davenport said in the face of the enormous coronavoris challenge, the Surat Basin region is in a better position to face it than most regions in Australia.

needs and availability of water, but also understanding the brightest innovations assisting our protein sector.

The conference provided a great opportunity for delegates to tour the largest and most technologically advanced feedlot in Australia at Mort & Co’s Grassdale feedlot. With their latest extension completed, the feedlot has now taken one-time operating capacity to 70,000 Standard Cattle Units, which makes it the largest yard

nationally.

The Emerging Exporters Program team have been taking their skills on the road, hosting a series of information sessions. At recent events in Chinchilla and Dalby, we encouraged local agribusinesses to explore whether exporting could provide big opportunities for their business. If you have an agribusiness based in the Western Downs and you’re thinking about exporting submit an Expression of Interest to

join the program via the TSBE website before April 9. The program is all thanks to Shell’s QGC business supporting the local economy.

Congratulations to the small business winners from the 2020 Business Navigator Pitch Challenge. It was fantastic that so many innovative and bright ideas presented to the panel of judges, proving the Western Downs is filled with many incredible entrepreneurs.

Finalists had one-on-one support from our Business Navigator team over the past few weeks before the finals, providing tailored workshops and individual coaching to prepare the delivery of their pitch. The Business Navigator team are continuing to provide advice, hands on assistance and training to help locals develop and grow their idea or business in the Western Downs. Business Navigator Western Downs is supported by Shell’s QGC business and delivered by Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise.

One thing is certain, the COVID-19 disruption will pass, toilet paper will return to our supermarket shelves and it will be business as usual once more. In the meantime, don’t forget that we’re so fortunate to live in this region where the economy is diverse and resilient. In times of change and uncertainty, there are always many opportunities, and you can rest assured that TSBE will be investigating any and all opportunities for our members, as well as the region as a whole

Gas companies need to prepare for COVID-19 DANIEL MCGAW ETU SOUTH WEST QUEENSLAND STATE ORGANISER THERE are 3.3 Million Australian workers with no access to paid leave. These are the people who face the greatest health and economic risks from the spread of the Coronavirus.

Yet the Morrison government has made no reference to any measures that would support them through this crisis, he said the relief would be for business who can pass this on, but will this really happen?

These workers are in many of the industries most exposed to the health and economic effects of Coronavirus. In the Surat Basin most workers live in camps and you can only imagine how quickly a virus would spread in such a confined space.

The grim reality is that if these workers become ill they will either attend work sick, be stood down by their employer without pay or potentially be subject to self-isolation regimes, again without means to pay their bills.

Without a proper, detailed economic support package for the 3.3 million people who have no

access to paid leave there is not only an economic impact on those workers but also a significant health risk to the broader community. Employers have a role to play in this too. They can make causal workers permanent so they can access leave entitlements.

Workers without access to paid leave will be placed in the impossible position of choosing whether to attend work while suffering symptoms, possibly infecting others, or selfisolating without any means to pay their bills and supporting their families. Should a worker really have to choose between going to work sick

or paying the bills?

Unfortunately too many workers in our region do not know what its like to have a paid sick day. Employers over the last decade have casualized the workforce to rates never seen before. Traditionally a casual worker was those who worked only a few hours a week, in industries like hospitality and retail. Now we see workers on 40+ hour weeks for 52 weeks of the year offered casual employment. Employers need to stop abusing casual employment and give Australian workers the entitlements they deserve.

DAVID LITTLEPROUD MARANOA MP

ROSS MUSGROVE WESTERN DOWNS REGIONAL COUNCIL CEO

ANN LEAHY WARREGO MP

We must remain a resilient region

Confidence grows in a Our roads need to be a strong, debt-free council priority for state govt

IT’S been a promising start to the year across the Surat Basin, recording decent to excellent summer rain.

Regardless of whether the rains stick around to break this drought, preparing farms and the community for the future is a priority.

We’ve invested more than $8 billion in drought support and come July 1, the $5 billion Future Drought Fund will kick in.

Every year $100 million from the Future Drought Fund will be invested in research, development and innovation. At the same time, projects will help boost farm production and profits.

The Drought Resilience Funding Plan was last month tabled in Parliament, outlining how the proceeds of the $5 billion Future Drought Fund can be spent.

The Fund’s Committee - who consulted with the public in drought-stricken areas - is now designing the funds programs.

Nobody escapes drought. That’s why the Fund is so important, to give farmers, businesses and communities across the Surat Basin the resources, technology and expertise to get through tough times.

We are resilient and defiant in the face of drought, flood and bushfire. If you’re interested in learning more about this Fund, register here: https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/futuredrought-fund

THERE is continued confidence in our strong and diverse economy on the Western Downs, with the recent rain offering an added boost to community spirit and economic prosperity in the region.

As the region’s economy continues to show growth across multiple industries, it’s important we are harnessing opportunities to generate and support a growing workforce in the region, which not only offers opportunities for locals, but also highlights the region as an attractive place to live and work.

As a major local employer, Western Downs Regional Council continues to actively seek opportunities to grow our local workforce and contribute to a brighter future for the region’s economy. We’re about creating local jobs for local people – and the Early Career Program offers much more than an employment opportunity, it’s about strengthening our community for generations to come.

Our program continues to nurture young professionals, with several trainees and apprentices going on to achieve Queensland awards for excellence over the past two years.

Our 2020 cohort is eager and energetic, and the Early Career Program offers high-quality support and training to guide each trainee or apprentice through their journey with Western Downs Regional Council.

THE Palaszczuk Labor Government is sending our regional roads into ruin.

The South West Region receives only two percent of the Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) one of the lowest allocations in the State with the investment continuing to decline in future years.

When we look at inland Queensland, 60% of the state’s land mass that generates $9.35 billion of the State’s Gross Product from 1.3 per cent of Queensland’s population – 2.2 times above the Queensland average, yet the inland has some of the lowest investment in regional roads from the State Labor Government.

In another slap in the face the South West, Darling Downs, North Coast and Wide Bay Burnett Main Roads Districts where amalgamated to form the Southern Queensland Region.

This new Super Region has nothing to do with delivery of more bitumen on our roads, it is about Ananastasia Palaszczuk’s Labor Government trying to hide its massive roads budget failure and maintenance backlogs.

The LNP has a job-creating infrastructure plan to improve roads. By investing in regional roads, the LNP will invest in creating local jobs.

Until next edition TSUE01Z01MA - V1

NEWS 21

SURATBASIN.COM.AU THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020

Andrew Hammermeister, Brett Colman and Michael Ashurst.

NETWORKING: Lance MacManus, Barry O’Sullivan, Glen Bulled, Michael Kemp and Joseph Richardson at the latest TSBE Enterprise Evening.

Cathie Joseph, Jade Hauser and Helen Ward.

Kristy Hayes and Hayley Hoefler from TSBE.

Josh Laverty and Ryan Woodfield.

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22 NEWS

THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

Aaron Neubauer, Tom Brady and Ken Skerman.

GOOD COMPANY: Tony Underwood, Owen Smith, Natalie Gruenfeld and Samantha Brimblecombe at the latest TSBE Enterprise Evening.

Helen Ward and Adam Capner.

David Woolf, Peter Elwell and Brandon Simpson.

Kym O’Lear and Madeleine Riehl.

Yvette Treasure and Nigel Meyer.

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NEWS 23

SURATBASIN.COM.AU THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020

Monica Pitcairn, Gemma Poole and Meg de Git.

BUSINESS TALK: David Carberry, Keith Graham, Ken Bidgood, Tyler Beck at the latest TSBE Enterprise Evening.

Owen Smith, Jodi Cottier and Jaime McGuire.

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Andrew Waddell and Chris Novak.

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24 NEWS View the last edition online

The latest news online

Surat Basin News

Read our last issue at www.suratbasin.com.au

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

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

THURSDAY MARCH 26 2020 SURATBASIN.COM.AU

Anger over law change proposal circulated. “Readers may not be aware that former Labor Government’s imposed the Wild Rivers legislation without consultation, or the consent of locals,” she said.

“Unfortunately it appears that this will be repeated by the Palaszczuk Labor Government with their Pristine Rivers proposals.”

Lock the Gate and Mr Emmott, however, believe continued resource activity will have profound impacts on the agricultural industry.

Mr Emmott said to let the resources industry loose in the Lake Eyre Basin would undo the hard work undertaken by graziers who care for the land in the region.

“While some gas infrastructure will not be permitted on the floodplains, the draft regulation proposes to allow gas wells and associated roads and pipelines, which will interrupt the flow of the rivers and damage agriculture that depends on them,” Mr Emmot said.

“A green light for fracking would have a massive impact on water resources as well as our clean green beef industry that thrives in the region. about 10ML of water per frack, and one well can be fracked up to 10 times. If you spread that across 9,000 wells, you’re looking at something in the order of 900GL of water they may be after to frack their wells. “The Palaszczuk Government must urgently reconsider its approach. It must protect the Channel Country rivers and floodplains from fracking, for good, to properly safeguard sustainable industries like agriculture and tourism that the region relies on.”

WARREGO MP Ann Leahy said measures are in place to protect the basin from wide scale fracking.

Ms Leahy took the opportunity to reiterate the measures already in place to protect the basin.

“The previous LNP Government consulted through the Western Rivers Advisory Panel, which included local government, agriculture, natural resource management, indigenous, environmental, resources and scientific representatives,” she said.

“This group assisted in developing strategies that found an effective balance between river

system protection and sustainable development opportunities in far western Queensland.

“As a result, the LNP put in place a management framework that are still in place today. “In particular, any proposed petroleum and gas developments in the Channel Country are subject to strict controls, under strengthened conditions contained in the Environmental Protection Act – stronger than any other part of Queensland.”

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A GRAZIER is criticising the Palaszczuk government’s proposed changes to Channel Country environmental laws, which he fears could lead to wide scale fracking.

Angus Emmot of Longreach and the Lock the Gate Alliance has hit back at comments made by Warrego MP Ann Leahy, who said any changes to the Wild Rivers legislation – laws surrounding protection of the Queensland section of the Lake Eyre Basin – would cause a stoppage of resources activity, and therefore income to southwest Queensland.

Mr Emmot said Ms Leahy was justified in some of her criticism, but ‘has the wrong end of the stick’ when it comes to resources operations in the west.

“Ann Leahy’s comments are an insult to graziers who depend on the free flowing rivers of the Channel Country for the survival of their businesses,” he said.

“She is right to criticise the Palaszczuk Government’s draft legislation, but unfortunately she has the wrong end of the stick; Channel Country and the Lake Eyre Basin must not be opened up for gas fracking exploitation.”

Ms Leahy’s concerns about the draft legislation primarily came from the potential difficulties being created for resources companies.

She has since responded to comments made

by Mr Emmot and Lock the Gate Alliance, claiming the wrong information is being distributed to the general public.

“I am disappointed to see inaccurate information about the Basin being constantly

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