After more than ten years of legal challenges, the Oakey Coal Action Alliance (OCAA) has withdrawn its appeal against the expansion of New Acland coal mine in Queensland. The decision, while difficult, brings an end to a lengthy and costly legal battle for the group of farmers who fought to protect water resources and the environment. New Hope Group, the mine operator, now has the green light to proceed with its expansion plans, which will increase production and create jobs.
A decade-long legal battle over the expansion of New Acland coal mine in Queensland has come to an end, with the Oakey Coal Action Alliance (OCAA) withdrawing its final appeal. The OCAA, a group of farmers, had been fighting against the mine's expansion since 2011, raising concerns about water resources and environmental impact. Their fight saw them navigate through various court levels, including the High Court of Australia, where they achieved a historic victory.
Despite these successes, New Hope Group, the mine operator, continued to secure approvals from the Land Court, ultimately leading to the OCAA's decision to withdraw the appeal. This decision, according to OCAA secretary Paul King, was a difficult one after years of 'complex, expensive and risky' work. He described the journey as an emotional rollercoaster, highlighting the numerous hearings and legal battles they endured. The agreement reached between New Hope Group and OCAA requires the company to obtain consent from the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers and subsequently file with the Land Court of Queensland. New Hope Group chair Robert Millner expressed confidence in proceeding with the mine's expansion plan, stating that the end of the legal challenge brings certainty to the local community. The project aims to increase production to 7.5 million tonnes per annum for another 12 years, generating approximately 400 full-time jobs. While this chapter of the OCAA's fight has concluded, they remain committed to protecting farmland and water resources on the Darling Downs. They vow to oppose any future expansion plans, asserting their unwavering dedication to safeguarding the region's environment.
COAL MINE EXPANSION LEGAL BATTLE AUSTRALIA ENVIRONMENT WATER RESOURCES FARMERS NEW HOPE GROUP OKEAY COAL ACTION ALLIANCE
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