Bring it on.

That’s the reaction to the announcement of a $5 million study into possible construction of a gas pipeline from the Bowen Basin.

The State Government is backing a pre-feasibilty study for a new 500km pipeline to connect gas reserves in the Bowen Basin to the east coast domestic market and overseas customers.

The proposal held terrific potential for regional jobs, Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said.

“The Isaac Region already contributes billions of dollars in royalties and other income and thousands of jobs for our fellow Queenslanders from our coal and gold mines and agriculture,” Cr Baker said.

“Piping gas from the Bowen Basin could produce more valuable earnings and jobs here and elsewhere in Queensland..

“The study will establish what gas may be available in the area, who might share in building, owning and operating the pipeline, and the overall benefits of the pipeline. 

“This is a very welcome announcement from the Queensland Government and I look forward to discussions with Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Mines Minister Anthony Lynham as the study progresses.”

She would welcome the Federal Government also contributing to the development of gas resources in the region, Mayor Baker said.

“Early this year, the Federal Government signed a multi-billion-dollar deal with New South Wales to increase gas supplies and bolster the energy network,” she said.

“At the time, the Prime Minister said he hoped to sign similar deals with other States and I would welcome federal funding for gas projects in this region.” 

A pipeline could potentially create more than 1,000 construction jobs and open up new reserves of gas for domestic and export use said Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.