PERTH (miningweekly.com) – Canadian diversified miner Teck has been given the green light to start exploration on 102 km2 of tenements in Queensland’s North West mineral province.
Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said on Friday that Teck’s move was a sign of ongoing confidence in the region.
“Having one of the world’s biggest zinc and mineral players moving into the sunshine state to explore and develop the state’s north-west presents a fantastic opportunity for Queensland,” he said.
“Not only will this help to secure the next generation of resource development in the north-west region, but it will firmly cement Queensland as a leader in the global minerals sector.”
Teck Australia is the first company in Queensland to be granted a permit to explore for minerals through a tender process. Traditionally, exploration permits are simply applied for.
“The next minerals boom will be new-age minerals used in advanced technologies from hybrid vehicle batteries to super-conducting magnets,” Lynham said.
“The north-west has potential for copper/gold and lead/zinc, as well as the rare-earth elements used in these advanced technologies.
“Emerging demand for these minerals is being driven by production targets for electric vehicles set by governments and car makers around the world and the need for progressive technology,” the Minister said.
“These rare metal presents industry and employment opportunities for Queenslanders in the very near future.”