Miners back take-or-pay plan for Wiggins Island

The 70mtpa terminal, to be operated by Gladstone Ports Corporation, will rely on take-or-pay contracts to ensure the infrastructure is funded.
The terminal hopes to finalise arrangements by July next year, allowing operations to begin in 2013.
The terminal infrastructure will be funded by 18 of the state's coal producers, with coal capacity to be managed under a Queensland Government-approved access regime.
WICET has executed the project’s Framework Deed with the Queensland Government and Gladstone Ports Corporation which provides the industry group with the opportunity to develop and own the new facility.
This industry-funded infrastructure delivery model will facilitate timely development of important coal transport infrastructure, without the need for Government funding.
“WICET is pleased to have the combined support of the Queensland Government, Gladstone Ports Corporation, other infrastructure providers and our coal producer partners, to ensure delivery of the project under a unique funding structure,” said a WICET spokesperson.
WICET is currently seeking expressions of interest from producers requiring new or additional export capacity through the Terminal. All existing and potential coal producers will have fair and equitable access to the port facilities, through a Government-approved Access Policy administered by WICET.