SUPPORT for a gas pipeline running from the Northern Territory to Mount Isa has the support of the Queensland Mines and Natural Resources Minister.
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The proposal for a pipeline from Tennant Creek to Mount Isa, to deliver gas to the East Coast market, is gaining momentum.
The route is in competition with a more expensive proposal to use Moomba in South Australia to the Northern Territory at Alice Springs.
State member for Mount Isa Rob Katter used his first opportunity in Parliamentary Question Time last week to gauge the government’s backing of the proposed Gas Pipeline.
It was the second time Mr Katter had raised the issue in parliament after initially kicking it off in November, 2013.
His question without notice to the Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Hon Anthony Lynham, who is due to visit Mount Isa next week, explained that the looming gas shortage in Queensland would require substantial gas supply increases, particularly in the North West Minerals Province.
“Does this government have a position on the proposed gas pipeline route from Tennant Creek to Mount Isa, rather than the alternate route from Alice Springs to Moomba, given that the South Australian Government has been vocal advocates of the Moomba option?” Mr Katter asked.
Dr Lynham replied that the gas pipeline had been discussed at length and was an important part of the government’s plans for developing the north.
“The north-west is an important region for the Palaszczuk government. We have not forgotten the north-west.
“The member will be aware of the significant recent announcements in relation to the Glencore copper smelter. The Glencore copper smelter will be a beneficiary of this proposed pipeline,” Dr Lynham said.
He explained to the house that the proposed pipeline would run from an oil gas shale deposit at Tennant Creek all the way through to Mount Isa.
“From Mount Isa that gas will be available for distribution through the Queensland network.
“By this supply of gas we should also hope to see a decrease in the cost of gas for industrial users in Queensland. It is a significant development not only for the important north-west province but also for the people of Queensland,” Dr Lynham said.
Mr Katter said he was pleased with the Minister’s response and looked forward to discussing the project with him in Mount Isa.
