Coal & Allied launches community information sessions

Coal & Allied is further enhancing its community relations programme in response to the local community's interest in mining activities in the Hunter.

External Relations General Manager Fiona Nicholls said new displays on a range of topics, such as employment, community investment, environmental management and cultural heritage, will feature in Coal & Allied's shopfronts in coming months.

"People are showing a real interest in Coal & Allied's operations, and in the wider contribution we make to the Hunter Valley community," said Ms Nicholls.

"We're very happy to give people the opportunity to find out more about the way Coal & Allied operates."

During August, the Muswellbrook shopfront will feature community information sessions on Coal & Allied's investment in the Hunter Valley community.

"Coal & Allied contributes strongly to the Hunter Valley, having invested over $9.6 million through its community development funds," said Ms Nicholls.

"We continue to support a wide range of programmes this year, including the Hunter Medical Research Institute's Healthy Dads, Healthy Kids project, Conservation Volunteers Australia's work on the Hunter Valley's rivers and the Parents and Learning program in Muswellbrook, getting indigenous parents involved in their children's learning.

"We also undertake a range of corporate sponsorships, such as our support for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, and our Community Alliance with the Newcastle Knights.

"People can drop into our shopfront during business hours to see the display and find out more about our community investment.

"We'll also have two sessions during the month where representatives from our community development funds will be available to answer any questions."

Ms Nicholls said it was already the case that anyone can phone or visit the Singleton shopfront to speak to Coal & Allied during business hours.

"We've had this 'open door' for the community since we opened this shopfront in Muswellbrook in 2007, and then again in Singleton which opened in 2008," Ms Nicholls said.

"We have found them to be a convenient way for people to find out more about what we do, or come in and ask specific questions. It's especially convenient if people want to look at photos or maps.

"We look forward to hearing from the community about specific items that they would like us to focus on and have information available in our shopfronts. We're always keen to hear about matters that are important to our near neighbours and local communities."

Representatives from Coal & Allied's community development funds will be available at the Muswellbrook shopfront from 9am to midday on the 11th of August and midday to 3pm on the 25th of August.

The shopfront at 19 Bridge Street, Muswellbrook, is open to all members of the community year-round during business hours, Monday to Friday. Coal & Allied also has a freecall telephone enquiries line 1800 727 745 and an 'email us' facility at info@rtca.riotinto.com.au.

Media Enquiries: Alison Smith 07 3361 4223 / 0438 787 038

Media release - Coal & Allied launches community information sessions [PDF: 37 KB]