Queensland Cattlewoman Isolated by Damaged Mine Access Road
Cattlewoman Trish Goodwin, residing near Bluff in central Queensland, has become isolated after nearly 200mm of rain damaged her access road. The severe rainfall, linked to ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, has rendered the road impassable for her vehicle.
Goodwin attributes her current isolation to the Bluff open-cut coal mine. The mine, owned by Bowen Coking Coal, went into receivership in July 2023 and has been mothballed for a second time. The new gravel road, which replaced Goodwin's original access path after a land lease agreement, now has washed-away sections and boggy terrain, making it unusable.
Impact and Access Challenges
Goodwin is concerned about requiring urgent medical attention, noting that paramedics would necessitate helicopter transport due to her isolation. She has previously experienced health emergencies, including a gallbladder attack and anaphylactic shock.
While her 200 Series Landcruiser cannot navigate the damaged road, Goodwin's farm buggy allows her to reach the highway. She uses this method to meet friends for essential supplies and plans to travel to Blackwater for restocking. Goodwin anticipates it could take a month for road repairs, provided the rain ceases.
Mine History and Road Maintenance Disputes
Goodwin's property has been impacted by mining operations for over a decade. The Bluff mine's previous owner, Carabella, which initiated operations in 2019, was liquidated. Bowen Coking Coal subsequently took over, but the mine was mothballed before a new "good neighbour" contract with Goodwin could be signed.
Queensland's Land Access Code mandates that mining lease holders maintain access roads in good repair. A 2016 land court decision ordered Carabella to compensate Goodwin for leasing her land. However, an additional contract for site work was not fulfilled before Carabella's liquidation.
Claire Gronow, Central Queensland coordinator for the Lock the Gate alliance, has called for the permanent closure and rehabilitation of the Bluff mine, suggesting the government utilize the rehabilitation bond. Gronow also urged the state to ensure Bluff's owners or receivers address Goodwin's access road issues.
Official Responses
Bowen Coking Coal did not provide a comment regarding the situation. Receivers FTI Consulting declined to comment. Queensland's Natural Resources and Mines department stated it is in regular communication with the mine's administrators.