It’s all systems go at CuDeco’s Rocklands copper operation after the official opening on Friday.
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VIP at the Cloncurry plant’s opening included Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke, Bob and Robbie Katter and Chinese Consul Jiqing Jiang, Director of the Economic and Commercial Office of Brisbane consulate.
CuDeco Managing Director Dr Dianmin Chen said the new mine created significant employment, investment and economic growth opportunities for the region while delivering wealth for shareholders.
“With shipments of native copper and sulphide copper concentrates to our customers now underway, we are focused on ensuring the successful ramp-up to nameplate capacity,” Dr Chen said.
Dr Chen said CuDeco’s commitment to local employment has meant a high ratio of local workers, while the Company has also supported the local Indigenous community through scholarships as part of its corporate social responsibility policy.
Minister O’Rourke said the mine would help boost the state’s economy and provide much needed jobs to the local community.
“North-West Queensland plays an important role in the economic future of our state, especially as a preferred exploration destination, and today’s opening has unlocked even more opportunities,” Ms O’Rourke said.
“It’s also great to see that Rocklands’ employment policy will deliver for the local economy and will provide ongoing benefits over the life of the operation.”
Consul Jiang said the project showed the mutual benefits of Chinese investment in Australia’s resource industry.
“China is Australia’s and Queensland’s largest trading partner, and Rocklands Copper Mine symbolises the benefits of our growing investment in Australia, which currently exceeds $75 billion across a range of sectors, including resources,” Ms Jiang said.
Mount Isa MP Robbie Katter praised CuDeco’s commitment to local employment and their non-FIFO policy.
Guests were taken on a tour of the open-cut copper mine and processing plant.