Bowen Coking Coal has appointed former Stanmore Coal executive Michael McKee as chief operating officer as the company works to fast-track development of its Isaac River project.

Mr McKee has more than 35 years’ experience in mining, including involvement in the restart of the Isaac Plains mine and commencement of production at the Sonoma and Minerva open pit coal mines.

“We are fortunate to have secured the services of such a seasoned professional with exceptional knowledge, Queensland experience and a skill set that perfectly fits the areas where we now need it the most,” Bowen Coking Coal managing director Gerhard Redelinghuys said.

“The key deliverable for Bowen is to fast track Isaac River through the permitting and planning phase towards production, and I firmly believe that Bowen now has the team to make that happen”

The company in April launched a drilling program at the Isaac River site, east of Daunia mine in the Bowen Basin.

The aim was to finalise the scope of the project and fast track it through the development and permitting process towards a decision to mine, Bowen Coking Coal said.

Mr McKee’s initial engagement is part-time and is expected to ramp up towards a full time role as the company’s Isaac River and other projects develop.