Community 'blindsided' by legislation change fears becoming ghost town

The small Queensland mining town of Glenden faces the threat of becoming a ghost town following a controversial legislation change. The Queensland government announced plans to repeal a requirement for the Byerwen coal mine to house workers in the town, causing shock and disappointment among the community. The mayor of the nearby Isaac Regional Council, Kelly Vea Vea, expressed extreme surprise at the abrupt policy reversal.

Registrations for buying houses, commercial buildings, and leasing the entire town have been opened in hopes of attracting private investment. The Queensland government's decision comes after the former Labor government legislated the accommodation requirement for workers at QCoal's Byerwen mine in 2023. The legislation, which was rushed without proper consultation or consideration of the community's impact, was intended to prevent Glenden from becoming a ghost town when the mine was set to close three years ago.

The town, located 160 kilometers west of Mackay, has seen a decline in population and services since the mine transitioned to closure. The community is now pleading with the government to reconsider its decision and invest in infrastructure left behind by Glencore, as families continue to leave and the school dwindles in size. QCoal and the resources minister have been contacted for further comment.