Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 21, Bravus Mining and Resources has unveiled plans to expand production at its Carmichael mine in central Queensland, Australia, targeting an increase from 10 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 16 mtpa over the next four years. This significant investment aims to meet growing global demand for thermal coal while creating new economic opportunities in the region.

This strategic move is expected to create hundreds of new jobs and meet rising global demand for thermal coal.

The expansion is expected to generate hundreds of jobs, supporting communities in towns such as Clermont, Rockhampton, Mackay, Bowen, Townsville, and Cairns. Mick Crowe, chief operating officer at Bravus, stated: “Over the last three years our Carmichael mine has safely and efficiently ramped production up to more than 10mtpa, which has boosted the Queensland economy and created thousands of jobs in regional Queensland. This new investment will increase Carmichael’s output by a third and create more benefits for Queensland. Our investment in the infrastructure to support this growth means more contracts for local businesses and suppliers and more high-paying mining industry jobs.”

To support the increased output, Bravus has completed engineering studies and assessments. Initial work includes expanding accommodation at the Carmichael mine village to facilitate the project’s growth. The company has also awarded a A$2 billion ($1.3 billion) five-year contract to MacKellar Group for mining services, enhancing operational efficiency and production capacity at the thermal coal mine.

The demand for Carmichael’s high-quality thermal coal is rising, driven by industrial growth in developing nations and the global expansion of AI and big data applications. This positions the mine to play a key role in supplying the seaborne coal market efficiently.

Crowe added: “Our investment in the infrastructure to support this growth means more contracts for local businesses and suppliers and more high-paying mining industry jobs for people living in places like Clermont, Rockhampton, Mackay, Bowen, Townsville and Cairns. It also means Carmichael will remain strategically positioned to efficiently deliver high-quality Queensland thermal coal to the global seaborne coal market at scale.”

The Carmichael mine expansion underscores Bravus’ commitment to supporting Queensland’s economy through job creation and local business opportunities. By leveraging advanced planning and strategic partnerships, the project aims to meet global energy demands while fostering sustainable economic growth in the region.