Speaking at a presentation for members and interested business owners, Bylong Coal representatives said an environment impact statement for the project would be submitted by the end of 2014 and the company expects to receive full approval by the end of 2015. 

Construction would begin in the first quarter of 2016, with production starting in the first quarter of 2017. 

A temporary camp is planned during development of the mine in order to reduce workers’ fatigue by locating them close to the mine. 

The camp is expected to house up to 1000 people during the peak construction period and an estimated 350 as required during ongoing operation. 

The Bylong Coal Project is owned by KEPCO Australia and managed by Cockatoo Coal. 

KEPCO is a government-owned Korean Energy company and the Bylong Coal project will be its first venture into mining. 

Representatives told the chamber the company hopes to develop strong local relationships, on the understanding that it will be part of the local community for the next 45 years. 

The chamber was keen to see KEPCO adopt a in a “Hi-Viz” policy similar to that of existing mines, which encourage workers and contractors to remove  hi-viz clothing and vehicle markings when visiting local towns. 

“These types of policies support the community being visually attractive and are consistent with quality tourist and residential destinations of choice,” president Greg Dowker said. 

“The Mudgee Chamber of Commerce welcomes the opportunity to have open and frank dialogue with proactive organisations in the development of balanced  economic, employment and business development that fit the long term sustainable regional community outcomes.”

Members of the Chamber will have access to the meeting notes via the Member Newsletter and KEPCO are providing a copy of the power point presentation to be placed on the Mudgee Chamber of Commerce website.