HVO to update local business communities at Chamber events

The business communities of Singleton and Muswellbrook will get an update from Hunter Valley Operation’s General Manager Dave Foster on the mine’s operations and proposal to continue mining at upcoming Chamber breakfasts in May.

Dave will speak at the Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce and Industry breakfast on May 7 and the Business Singleton breakfast on May 30.

His presentations will focus on:

• an overview of HVO’s proposal to continue mining and the benefits for local business and community
• progress with seeking approval from the State and Federal governments
• changes HVO has made to its proposal in response to community and government feedback and to further minimise impacts
• an update on current operations and support for local businesses and the community.

Dave thanked both chambers for the opportunity to share information with fellow members. He gave a similar presentation to the first Business Hunter Energy and Resources luncheon for 2024 in Newcastle in March.

“HVO has a strong relationship with both local chambers and appreciate their support of our proposal to continue mining until 2050,” Dave said.

“These presentations are another way we are providing our community with information about our operations and our plans for the future,” he said.

Dave said if HVO’s Continuation Project is approved it will continue to provide around 1,500 local jobs, up to 600 temporary construction jobs, as well as continue to do business with hundreds of local suppliers.

He will reveal HVO’s latest direct economic contribution figures and updated figures on the economic benefit of continued mining at the presentations.

“HVO’s direct economic contribution in 2023 is even higher than the $1.5 billion contributed in 2022. The revised Continuation Project benefits are much higher than the original forecast of $4 billion in net present value terms.”

“Our continuation is in line with the NSW Government’s Strategic Statement on Coal Exploration and Mining in NSW and Hunter Regional Plan 2041. These plans recognise that coal production continues to be important to NSW and regional communities as we transition to a low carbon economy.”

“Our proposal delivers in-demand, high quality, coal with relatively little additional disturbance to remnant vegetation or other impacts compared to other projects of a similar scale. This coal will contribute to the energy security of some of Australia’s important trading partners, particularly Japan.”

Dave has been general manager of HVO since January 2023. The Singleton resident started his mining career at HVO as a Mine Operations Engineer almost two decades ago.

The Muswellbrook Chamber of Commerce and Industry breakfast is from 7am-9am at the Muswellbrook RSL Club. RSVP by May 2 to info@muswellbrookchamber.com.au. Pay by card or cash on the day or request an invoice with your RSVP. More information.

The Business Singleton breakfast is from 7am to 9am at the Horse and Jockey. Get information and tickets here.