The Queensland LNP Government has taken the first concrete step towards its long stated aim of exploiting the Aurukun bauxite resource in western Cape York. This time around however the right to mine will not be tied to the requirement to build an alumina refinery.
The Newman Government formally opened the Expressions of Interest process for the development rights of the 439 MT reserve of in situ bauxite.
Chalco inked a Development Agreement on March 23rd 2007 under the Beattie Government. The proponent eventually vacated its lease, weighed down by the expense of an alumina refinery.
Mr Jeff Seeney said deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning said that "The previous government's botched strategy of wanting to lease the bauxite to a company under the condition it established a refinery or expanded refinery capacity was never going to work. Although potential tenderers should note, development of the resource may not be all plain sailing, with land rights unresolved."
Mr Seeney said that "The government will also consult with and seek the endorsement of the Aurukun community and the Traditional Owners for the new tender process."
