The Bluff coal site near Blackwater is being managed by the State Government as an abandoned mine after liquidators disclaimed the mining lease.

The mine (pictured in 2023) was most recently operated by Bowen Coking Coal after the former Carabella Resources site was sold by FTI Consulting as receivers and managers and controllers on behalf of mining contractor MACA.

Bowen Coking Coal placed it into care and maintenance in late 2023, blaming subdued PCI (pulverised coal injection) prices along with higher costs of mining and a lacklustre run of production.

Receivers and managers were appointed for Bowen Coking Coal and related entities at the start of August last year.

Private mining company Argo QLD took on the company’s Burton coal complex, while an agreement was reached with Maverick M Australia (controlled by UK-registered Meta Mines Investments) for Bluff.

Related: Argo adds Burton coal complex to its portfolio

Maverick failed to meet the conditions precedent for the acquisition, causing the Deed of Company Arrangement to be terminated, and Bowen PCI was placed into liquidation.  

A Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development spokeswoman confirmed that liquidators had disclaimed Mining Lease 80194, the associated environmental authority and exploration permits for Bluff coal mine.

“The department has secured the site and is working to ensure risks to public safety and the environment are appropriately managed,” she said.