The QLD Resources Minister (Hon Scott Stewart MP) visited key quarries supporting building and infrastructure in South-East Queensland at an industry site visit on 27 September.
In visiting Holcim’s Beenleigh and Boral’s Ormeau quarries, Minister Stewart was able to tour the operations, speak with site workers and gain a better understanding the critical role of quarries for the community – particularly in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032.
Also in attendance was Lana Bartholomew, Executive Director (Geo-resources Policy) Department of Resources.
CCAA State Director Aaron Johnstone thanked the Minister and his team for the visit “On average, each Queenslander uses 10 tonnes of quarry material per year for construction, and it was a terrific for the Minister to witness first-hand the quarrying process.”
“The visit allowed us to discuss key issues in quarry protection and approvals, particularly in growing SEQ, and the need for the planned Fit-for-Purpose Extractive Industry Assessment Framework being developed by the State Government as part of its Resource Sector Industry Development Plan“, Mr Johnstone stated.
“The Minister also commended the quarry managers for the quality of their operations, especially their efforts on health, safety and environmental management”. Mr Johnstone said.
Holcim Queensland General Manager (Aggregates) Steve Thomas stated: “Holcim are proud to have been involved with the Resource Minister’s quarry visits, as real-life industry engagement and site experiences facilitate a better understanding of our industry’s challenges, as well as the professionalism our site teams, when producing and delivering the building blocks required for the construction of key SEQ infrastructure”.
Boral Quarries Operations Manager Carl Buckland stated “The Boral Ormeau team was delighted to show Minister Stewart around our Ormeau operation and talk through our approach in providing essential building materials for the local community, as well as our efforts on biodiversity, water management and health and safety.”