The state Government has highlighted improving conditions in the mining and energy sector with updates on two indicative projects.

Japan’s JFE Steel has announced its intention to start construction on the $1.76 billion Byerwen Mine joint venture with QCoal.  

The mine is forecast to yield up to 10 million tonnes of high-quality coking and thermal coal annually from open-cut operations 20km west of Glenden.

It will be railed to the Abbot Point terminal for export.

The Byerwen mine project will generate 350 construction jobs at peak, followed by up to 545 operational jobs, said Mines Minister Anthony Lynham.

“It’s particularly good news for locals, as the proponent has previously committed to hiring from Glenden, Nebo, Moranbah and Collinsville and across the wider region,” Mr Lynham said

Dr Lynham also pointed to Arrow’s Energy’s expansion plans and its Tipton gas project near Dalby with the potential to double output for domestic and export use.

“Arrow is looking at 90 news wells initially and another 180 wells over the next 25 years,” Dr Lynham said.

“This next engineering phase that Arrow has announced will inform a final investment decision that could take production capacity to more than 80 terrajoules a day.”

“These projects are further good economic and jobs news for regional communities and underline the positive investment environment in Queensland,” Dr Lynham said.