Project Suspension Details
Work on the Kidston Pumped Hydro Project in North Queensland has been halted, leading to the demobilization of over 100 workers. The suspension follows an investigation into a food-related incident involving a pre-packed meal served on January 10.
Genex, the company developing the project, confirmed the temporary suspension of its camp facility, located 285 kilometers west of Townsville. Most of the 150-200 workers involved in the construction have been moved off-site.
Incident and Investigation
The Queensland Electrical Trades Union (ETU) reported that photos provided by a worker indicated the meal contained maggots. Following the incident, the local council issued a show-cause notice to the camp operator, detailing a list of required improvements.
Genex stated its decision to suspend camp operations while these improvements are addressed. The company is supporting the contractor in worker demobilization and will maintain the camp until this process is complete.
Union Concerns and Industrial Action Claims
ETU organizer Rob Hill stated that workers had previously raised concerns about food and hygiene standards at the camp since the project's inception. Hill emphasized that the union's request for workers to leave the site was safety-related, not industrial action.
McDonnell Dowell Constructions and John Holland, the project's construction contractors, have filed an application with Queensland's Fair Work Commission regarding alleged industrial action at the site. This matter is scheduled for a hearing.
Genex is working to implement the necessary improvements to facilitate the resumption of construction activities.