Coal miner and council team up to give Clermont its preferred future

Clermont residents seeking a say in their town's future have been given a boost, after Rio Tinto Coal Australia and Isaac Regional Council announced they will partner to fund a new position to help implement the locals' plan.

The Isaac Regional Council has been leading the development of a Preferred Future Strategy for the town, with Rio Tinto Coal Australia's participation, to explore the needs and challenges facing Clermont in coming years.

Local residents had input into the town they want to see develop, including infrastructure, business development, transport, liveability and lifestyle, cultural heritage, health, and housing requirements.

The council launched the report Tuesday (May 27) and will now work with Rio Tinto Coal Australia, as well as local industry and community groups, to firm up additional projects under the strategy.

The mining company will spend $50,000 towards the funding of a Preferred Futures Implementation Officer, who will work in the council and with the community, to implement the strategy.

Dave Lamb, General Manager Construction of Rio Tinto Coal Australia's Clermont Mine, said the strategy, and the new position, aimed to empower the local community.

"We believe the future success of the Clermont Mine relies on a positive working relationship with the Clermont community," Mr Lamb said.

"We want to be part of the local community, not just adjacent to it."

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Cedric Marshall, said the plan and the new position, signalled a fresh approach to relationships between the council and mining companies.

"There are always challenges for local councils in working with major projects such as a new mine, including housing and infrastructure," Mr Marshall said.

"What we want to do is work together with mining companies, including Rio Tinto Coal Australia, to find solutions which the public is asking for, and can be sustained for decades to come.

"Ultimately all mines reach the end of their life, and our responsibility to the Clermont community is to ensure they retain the community they prefer."

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Nathan Scholz
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