Central Highlands’ Mayor Kerry Hayes was on hand to witness an historic moment for Central Queensland today as Adani Chairman Gautam Adani gave the green light for the Carmichael mine and rail projects.
‘It was quite a moment,’ the mayor said.
‘I stood behind the Premier of Queensland and the Adani representative as the letters of award for design, construction, operations, supply of materials and professional services were signed for, as Mr Adani says is, “ … one of the largest single infrastructure developments in Australia’s recent history.”
‘The event was held in Townsville at the new Adani regional headquarters and there’s no doubt that everyone in the room was invigorated, but also relieved.
‘Mr Adani acknowledged that his company had been challenged by activists, but said that he was, “ … committed to the project.”
‘As a preferred supplier, our region is strategically placed to take full advantage of the opportunities that the rail and mine site construction will offer.
‘And, it was noted that during the announcement Adani Australia Head of Country and Chief Executive Jeyakumar Janakaraj said the recent visit by the Central Queensland mayors to India was a pivotal point in the decision making,’ the mayor added.
An Adani press release today also said the company was committed to regional Queensland and committed to addressing energy poverty in India.
Mr Janakaraj said, ‘While some may be looking for ways to leave regional Queensland, we are looking to the future. We are looking to ensure regional Queensland remains a great place to live, work and to raise a family.’