The expansion includes a crushing plant, control room, weighbridge, roads and amenities block. Until now, the site was made up predominantly of a mobile crushing plant.
Twenty clients and key stakeholders attended the opening and also had the opportunity to tour the quarry.
“The opening of Stage 2 of the Long Hill Quarry underscores Hazell Bros’ continuing confidence in Tasmania’s construction sector,” Premier Giddings said. “The construction industry in the state?s north will benefit from a major increase in the supply of construction material.
“Six people are directly employed on this site daily, with more based on increased workloads, including sub-contractors for cartage. A crew of 12 have been involved in the building of the infrastructure over the past six months.”
Premier Giddings officially commissioned the fixed plant and tipped the first official load of material to mark the occasion.
“Hazell Bros is an integral part of our construction industry, particularly in building large scale infrastructure projects that are vital for the continuing economic development of Tasmania,” she said.
Hazell Bros managing director Geoffrey Hazell said the Long Hill expansion would allow the business to grow and add value to its existing concrete and construction operations.
“Jurassic dolerite is unique in this region and allows us to supply a high quality differentiated product to the market,” Hazell said.
“Based on projected volumes, this quarry has a life of 50 plus years, making it a long term economic benefit for the north of the state and a vote of confidence in the future of Tasmania.
“Initially we plan to employ six to eight people and produce 250,000 tonnes per annum, with scope for further expansion.”
Ms Giddings said the company was recently awarded State Government contracts as part of the Midlands Water Scheme and is carrying out extensive concrete works needed for the $395 million Hydro Tasmania Musselroe Wind Farm project.
“Wherever possible the State Government and Government Business Enterprises partner with local companies to work on major projects,” Ms Giddings said.
Sources: Hazell Bros, Statement by Tasmanian Premier Lara Giddings