COAL AND GREEN PROJECTS ON $5 BILLION LIST

A range of emission-busting initiatives and five coal mine extensions are among more than 40 major projects in play for the Central Highlands.

CHDC has released its latest Major Projects Register, which sets out key developments that are recently completed, in progress or in the pipeline for the region.

The combined value of the projects is more than $5 billion but because these types of investment figures are commonly kept confidential, the true value is likely to be significantly higher.

CHDC CEO Peter Dowling says the document is more than just a compilation of projects.

“It tells a story about the strength, the vitality and the growth of the Central Highlands and the confidence that the private sector and governments have in our region,” he says.

“Pulling together details about all of the local activity into a single, easy-to-read document is also a valuable resource for investors and supply chain businesses looking for new opportunities.”

The 2024-25 Register’s launch was the centrepiece of CHDC’s sold-out Major Projects Working Dinner in Emerald on Tuesday night.

The continuing strength of the region’s resources sector is reflected in the document, which lists the new Wilton Fairhill coal complex and extensions to five established mines that will prolong their operations and secure their workforces.

A growing appetite for reducing carbon footprints is also evident, with initiatives such as solar farms at Blackwater and Dingo, hydrogen-fuelled coaches in Emerald, and two separate pilot projects to recycle mining gas waste.

“It’s also really encouraging to see that there’s activity and upgrades in pretty much every corner – agriculture, tourism, health, education, recreation – which is a fantastic boost for the region’s liveability,” Mr Dowling says.

Other key points:

• Health infrastructure is well-represented, with $43.5 million in projects, all of which are either recently completed or underway.

• Most of the mine projects in the Register are metallurgical, meaning the coal is destined for steel production.

• One-third (14) of the projects received funding from the Queensland and / or Australian Governments.

• Three projects involve modern methods of construction (MMC): Carnarvon’s Big4 Breeze Holiday Park, Blackwater Hospital, and a non-resident workforce accommodation village at Blackwater.

• CHDC’s previous major projects snapshot from two years ago captured 28 projects with a combined value of more than $3 billion

• The Register focuses on projects that are valued at more than $2 million, create or secure jobs, or are unique to the Central Highlands.

The register can be viewed and downloaded at chdc.com.au or contact enquiries@chdc.com.au or (07) 4982 4386 to request a copy.