In June 2010, the Queensland Government announced mining will end on North Stradbroke Island (NSI) by 2027. On 22 March 2011, the Premier announced she would be shutting down mineral sand mining on NSI in 2019. This announcement has created considerable uncertainty for Sibelco Australia's operations as well as the NSI community.

This has created considerable uncertainty for Sibelco Australia operations as well as the NSI community.

Sibelco Australia believes there is an economically sound, environmentally and socially responsible means of achieving a sustainable future for NSI with continued mining operations up to 2027 and beyond.

Results from an independent opinion poll show 81% of Queenslanders support sand mining continuing to 2027 and do not want an early shut down of mining on NSI.

Sibelco Australia's vision for a Sustainable Stradbroke is balanced and addresses the needs of all stakeholders. It enables the gradual cessation of mining operations on NSI and proposes innovative alternatives for future industry and use.

The key outcomes of Sibelco Australia's Sustainable Stradbroke Vision are:

• By 2011, 50% of NSI will be available for National Park
• By 2015, 65% of mining lease area will be surrendered – this represents a significant reduction in future mining activity as resources are currently available to extend beyond 2050
• By 2015, all mining activity north of Dunwich and Tazi Road will cease
• By 2015, the majority of truck movements will cease
• Post 2015, mining activity will be limited to less than 3% of the island, with a significant proportion of mining restricted to previously disturbed land
• A planned reduction of the mining workforce and support services while giving alternative industries time to develop at a realistic rate
• Key potential tourist development areas will be available at the earliest opportunity regardless of mining lease expiry date
• Key high value environmental areas will be excluded from mining and surrendered to the State Government at the earliest opportunity.

Click here to find out more about Sibelco Australia's Sustainable Stradbroke vision and how it aligns directly with the State Government's long-term plans for the Island as they were originally announced.

Click here to hear from NSI residents who support Sibelco Australia's vision.