MOD 3 - Pit 8 Extension

The Limestone Association of Australia Inc. (LAA) represents the interests of members producing and processing limestone across Australia.
*The coal industry through to its end uses is vitally important to the economy and community through powering reliable base load power .
* Coal mines including Wilpinjong are important customers of the limestone industry which provides material for site remediation, dust control , improved underground visibility and as a fire retardant and also used in neutralising gas emissions in coal fired power plants
*Limestone production is an important regional industry and is complementary regionally to the operation of coal mines such Wilpinjong.
*The importance of Wilpinjong to the regional economy is well documented in its information relating to the Pit 8 extension. With a workforce of 600 approx., 200 approx. specialist and other contractors, around $1.2m annually contributed to local community projects and 1260 approx. suppliers and other benefits.
*It is vital that the extension application is fully approved for all the above reasons, especially for Wiljinpong's suppliers in the limestone industry and ultimately the coal industry is vitally important long term to provide necessary base power the economy and society so needs to function smoothly and affordably cost wise. The export component is so important as a complementary component in long term viability of mines.

I strongly support the Wilpinjong Mine modification because of its economic and community contributions. Over 500 suppliers benefit from Wilpinjong, supporting many direct and indirect jobs and contributing approximately $400 million annually to the local and regional economy. Approving this mine modification ensures that the Mudgee region continues to benefit from the significant economic and social investments provided by Wilpinjong Mine.

• I back Wilpinjong Mine because of its economic and community contributions. • The mine also supports around 700 jobs. That’s 700 families relying on this operation - an enormous impact for a regional community like Mudgee.

I support the Modification for the extension at Wilpinjong Coal Mine.
The Pit 8 Extension makes sense from a practical, environmental, social and economic point of view. The extension will see a continuation of mining while avoiding the Cumbo Creek corridor and Rocky Hill complex, of which both areas have been approved previously to be mined. The extension does not materially alter the existing operations of the Wilpinjong Coal Mine, while at the same time ensures that the many social and economic benefits can continue to be enjoyed throughout the Mid-Western Region. This includes the many jobs provided and associated salaries spent in the region which benefit the local shops and tourism facilities, benefits to families being able to plan a long term future and of course, the many events and organisations that the mine supports (among others) that would struggle to exist without ongoing long-term support. From a practical standpoint, the potential impacts of the expansion have been well defined and can be appropriately managed and/or mitigated through current or appropriate changes to existing management plans. The coal that Wilpinjong produces is a vital component of the region's and State's economic prosperity and I believe that approving this modification is in the best interests of the wider public.

Steve asked if we could assist him in understanding what the modification is about and how it might impact him. Specifically, if the modification involves additional water discharges into the Goulburn River/ Wollar Creek and if the Ulan-Wollar Road realignment would involve road closures or add additional travel time for road users.

Steve said his primary concern is understanding if the modification involves additional water discharges, as the main access track (approx.. 20km of dirt road) he uses to get to town (from his house to Mogo Road) has a creek and river crossing (Cumar creek, which joins up to Wollar Creek and eventually Goulbourn River). If there are additional water discharges, it would increase the height of the water level at the river crossing and impact his ability to leave his property. He said the water levels can get high at times, and any additional water would put him and the surrounding neighbours (who also use a river crossing) at risk. He said he's had a few medical episodes where the ambulance has had to park up on the other side of the river and use a separate vehicle (4WD) to cross the river just to get to him.

Steve mentioned it takes him an hour to travel to Mudgee for groceries, and if there are roadworks associated with the Ulan-Wollar realignment, he wants to understand how much additional time would be added to his trip into town. It currently takes him 30 minutes to travel along the dirt road to Mogo Road, then an additional 30 minutes along Ulan-Wollar Road to get to Mudgee. So if there are any road closures or additional travel times associated with the construction work for the realignment, he’s concerned it would greatly impact him.

Steve mentioned a recent meeting held between the EPA and the Wollar Progress Association. He mentioned that he has spoken to his neighbours about the modification who also share his concerns.

I support the mine expansion because it will ensure future prosperity in the Mudgee region. The $96 million investment in wages is vital to support local families and keep a regional centre thriving.

Saw this Meta ad. It was great.

I support because of the economic growth / local jobs

I support the local jobs and economic value the mine brings to Mudgee.

I support the project because it provides local employment in this regional location.

See attached letter

Support most efficient energy sources supplying the seaborne coal trade
Support jobs

Good for the community, also allows me to put food on the table as I work there.

My husband has worked for Wilpinjong mine for 14 years it is our main source of income we hope the extension is approved and he can continue to work there and provide for our family

I support this project because it provides locals alot of jobs which helps support local families and communities
Peabody also sponsors alot of local venues and events
The mine site is also a reasonable distance away from the local area so it has a very low effect on the local environment

Supportive of the project going ahead.

Statement of Support – Wilpinjong Coal Mine Pit 8 Expansion
As a local resident and contractor, I would like to express my full support for the proposed Pit 8 Expansion at the Wilpinjong Coal Mine.
With mining operations already well-established in the area, the impacts of this expansion will be minimal. This is not a new development, but a logical and necessary continuation of an existing operation. The infrastructure is already in place, meaning the transition will be efficient and cause minimal disruption.
This project represents more than just an extension of mining activity — it represents continued job security for many local workers and families, including my own. I live in the region and, like many others, have built a life and raised a family based on the stability that the mining industry, and Wilpinjong in particular, has provided.
The mine’s contribution extends beyond direct employment. Local businesses in Mudgee, Gulgong, and surrounding communities rely on the mine’s workforce for ongoing trade. Many of these businesses also directly supply or provide services to the mine.
When Wilpinjong is operating at full capacity, the entire region benefits — economically and socially.
Wilpinjong has also been a consistent supporter of local schools, community programs, and various regional initiatives.
The Pit 8 Expansion would allow this valuable contribution to continue into the future.
In my experience, Wilpinjong is a professionally run operation with a strong commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, and community engagement. I am confident the team will manage this expansion with the same diligence and care they have shown throughout their existing operations.
For these reasons, I strongly support the Pit 8 Expansion and respectfully urge the Department to approve the project.

I have lived in the Mudgee region for over 10 years and have worked in the mining industry during this time. I have a family of 3 children who have attended the local schools and have supported the local sporting clubs. I rely on the mining industry and in particular Wilpinjong Mine to earn an income so I can support my family. I support the proposed modification to the Wilpinjong Mine located in the Mid-Western region of NSW.

I support the extension to Pit 8 (MOD 3) as proposed by the Wilpinjong Coal Mine, for the reasons of maintaining economic continuity and securing meaningful employment for many individuals and families, either residing or traveling for work, in regional NSW.

Wilpinjong mine is an integral part of the local community