1 month ago
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A remote Far North Queensland worksite has been effectively shut down so it can make urgent improvements ordered by a food safety inspector after images emerged of maggot-infested meals being served to staff.
Workers at the Genex Pumped Storage Hydro Project at Kidston were allegedly served mouldy and fly-riddled food for breakfast on January 15, a day after initial food safety concerns at the site were publicised.
After those complaints, a food safety inspector appointed by Etheridge Shire Council visited the camp’s food-preparation facilities. Two days later, on January 16, 130 workers were evacuated.
Genex’s Kidston pumped hydro project in Queensland.Credit: Brian Cassey
Operations at the site, which is more than a three-hour drive from the nearest shop, have now been suspended.
“The food inspector confirmed to representatives of Genex, the contractor, and the camp operator that the camp food licence will not be revoked nor cancelled, and that there is no serious or imminent risk to the health and safety of persons residing and eating at the camp,” Genex chief executive Craig Francis said.
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However, camp operator ISS Facility Services was issued a show cause notice on Monday with an extensive list of demands.
Francis promised to work with relevant authorities to improve standards at the worksite.
“Given the extent of the improvement requirements contained in the notice, in consultation with the contractor, Genex has decided to temporarily suspend the operation of the camp facility while the improvement requirements are actioned,” Francis said.
“Limited camp operations, with additional experienced supervision, will be maintained to accommodate and provide meals to a small workforce who will need to remain on the project to provide care and maintenance activities on site, as well as the operations and maintenance team for Genex’s Kidston Solar Farm.”
CFMEU Queensland executive secretary Jared Abbott said there was no greater threat to productivity than an unsafe worksite.
Some of the mouldy and fly-riddled food allegedly served up last week.
“This shocking event shows why the Queensland government must urgently implement mandatory living standards for remote work camps, so workers building this state’s critical infrastructure can do their jobs,” he said.
A stop-work action was carried out at the project late last year over unacceptable conditions.
Unsafe food standards and unclean accommodation were among the concerns raised at the time.
The project is a joint venture of John Holland and McConnell Dowell.
ISS Facility Services directed this masthead to the comment made by Genex when contacted.
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