Flinders Shire Mayor responds to Copperstring criticism
Flinders Shire Council Mayor Kate Peddle has voiced her unwavering support for the Copperstring transmission infrastructure project, which is set to transform North West Queensland into a thriving economic hub.
Her comments come in response to recent remarks by APA Group Chief Executive Officer Adam Watson, who described the government’s investment in the project as “horrendous.”
Mayor Peddle emphasised that, while unsurprising, such criticism from a competitor is an attempt to undermine a project that does not align with APA’s business interests as the only supplier of electricity to copper miners in the North West Minerals Province.
"It’s hardly surprising that Mr Watson would make such comments. As a competitor, it’s in his interest to kill a project that challenges their control of the market,” said Mayor Peddle.
"But North Queenslanders and the Premier are smarter than that, and we won't be lectured to by a CEO from Sydney – who is happy to build transmission lines in New South Wales – trying to use government spending as a weapon against a project that will generate immense wealth for our region and our state."
The Copperstring project addresses a critical infrastructure gap by connecting the mineral-rich regions of North West Queensland to the national grid.
Mayor Peddle pointed out that the region’s $36 billion annual contribution to the state economy highlights the urgent need for such infrastructure.
"At one end of this corridor, we have a significant minerals province, and at the other a thriving port for processing and export. Yet there is no existing transmission line connecting these vital points," said Mayor Peddle.
“This project is about building the infrastructure that will unlock the full potential of our region. It’s an economic development investment that will generate wealth for generations to come, and it’s worth every penny.”
“While there are always concerns about project costs, just like there was for the Great Northern Rail line between Townsville and the North West 50 years ago, investing in infrastructure that drives economic growth and wealth creation is always justified, especially when you look at the returns we’ll see.
“This corridor is a critical economic link, and connecting it to the national grid is the key to unlocking its potential.”
Mayor Peddle further emphasised the significant community investment in the Copperstring project, stating “Our community has already invested in this project.
“We’ve shaped our Council budgets around it, businesses have invested in themselves to capitalise on the opportunities it will bring, and local students are already preparing for careers as linesmen!
“This project will have long-lasting, generational benefits for North Queensland, and we won’t let the arguments of outsiders stop us from securing that future.
"If APA was in any way concerned with economic development in regional Queensland, they would ask how they can help rather than attacking us."
Acknowledging the lengthy journey it has taken to secure government backing for the Copperstring project, Mayor Peddle expressed confidence that the Queensland Government will continue to follow through on its commitment.
“It has taken a long, bloody time to get here, but we know that this government is committed to seeing the project through,” she said.
“North Queenslanders understand that investing in projects like Copperstring is the only way to ensure a prosperous future, and we’re grateful for the state leaders who recognise the importance of this investment.”
Mayor Peddle also addressed the broader economic implications of the project.
“The Copperstring project is not a cost – it’s an investment with incredible, justifiable returns. Our region has always been a wealth generator for the state, and this project will only enhance that,” she said.
“It’s disappointing that external parties like APA would use the cost of this project as a tool to create doubt, but we know better. This is an investment in our future, and we will stand behind it.”
Mayor Peddle also reaffirmed her appreciation for state leaders who have shown their commitment to the Copperstring project, including Treasurer David Janetzki, Premier David Crisafulli, the Deputy Premier, and the State Government.
“I met with the Premier and senior ministers last week, and it’s clear that they understand the value of investing in North Queensland and that they are fully committed to building CopperString,” she said.
“They are not swayed by external voices from companies like APA, who are more concerned about their bottom line than the long-term benefits of this region and the state.”
Mayor Peddle expressed her continued confidence in the project’s success.
“The Premier and his government are dedicated to this project because they understand what’s at stake for North Queensland and Queensland as a whole,” she added.
“This is a smart investment that will pay off for generations, and we will continue to fight for it.”
Mayor Peddle also highlighted the ongoing support from the Queensland Treasurer, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project in the article.
“This morning’s article underscores the importance of using capital wisely, but we’re confident that the Copperstring project will deliver incredible benefits to Queensland.
“We hope to see Powerlink’s leadership continue to support their on-the-ground teams with the same positivity they bring to our communities.
“To be frank, I met with the leaders of this Queensland state government, and I’m telling you now – they won’t be told by a Sydney-based gas company how to invest in their own home state."
Mayor Peddle also stressed the importance of clear communication regarding project timelines.
“Investment projects and businesses are working up projects that align with the deliverable dates supplied by Powerlink, and if that is subject to change, we need to be in direct communication with those who will be affected, including the elected members of the regional councils that are relaying information supplied to them directly by Powerlink.”
