Wollondilly MP Judy Hannan has welcomed the completion of the sale of Tahmoor Colliery to the GEAR/M Resources Consortium.
She says the sale is an important milestone for local mine workers, their families and the wider Wollondilly community.
Around 150 workers have already returned to the mine, with the new owners working towards bringing more employees back as operations ramp up over the coming months.
“For our community, this has always been about people, securing local jobs, giving families greater certainty and supporting the many local businesses that rely directly and indirectly on Tahmoor Colliery,’’ says the independent MP.
“I want to acknowledge and thank everyone who has worked persistently towards this outcome.
“That includes the new owners, GEAR/M Resources Consortium, the NSW Government especially the minister for natural resources Courtney Houssos, the Mining and Energy Union, the liquidators, mine management; and, importantly, the workers who have shown enormous patience throughout this process,’’ Ms Hannan said.
“Considerable work has been required to reach this point, including securing the necessary finances, progressing regulatory requirements, ensuring appropriate safety and rehabilitation arrangements, settling outstanding royalties and preparing for the recruitment and return of workers.’’
The NSW Resources Regulator will continue its oversight as activity increases to ensure the mine meets its safety and rehabilitation obligations.
“The colliery’s priority now must be a safe and sustainable return to full operations and getting as many local workers as possible securely back on the job,’’ Ms Hannan said.
“Tahmoor Colliery has supported generations of local families.
“Today provides renewed confidence that it can continue doing so into the future.’’
