Police have charged a 36-year-old man with two counts of common assault after an alleged incident at a mine in Central Queensland.

The Carmichael mine is located approximately 300 kilometres inland from Mackay.

It is leased by Bravus Mining and Resources, formerly known as Adani.

The approval and construction of the mine in 2019 prompted nation-wide protests by anti-coal activists. 

But the Carmichael mine pushed forward and produced its first shipment of coal at the end of 2021. 

Since August 2021, a group of traditional owners has been living opposite the mine, occupying an area of the mining and pastoral lease.

A Queensland Police Service (QPS) spokesperson said following investigations into an alleged incident at Belyandao on February 27, a 36-year-old Algester man had been charged.

“It will be alleged an altercation occurred at an Elgin Road address in which a 52-year-old man and a 35-year-old man were assaulted,” they said.

“The two men did not suffer any physical injuries.

“QPS continues to monitor activities by people occupying a parcel of land at the Carmichael Coal Mine.

“The QPS acknowledges the cultural and human rights of all involved and will continue to engage with all parties to ensure a peaceful resolution.”

Bravus Mining and Resources released a statement welcoming the charges.

A spokesperson said the alleged assault was against an Indigenous environmental ranger and a Bravus security guard. 

“We continue to provide support to the two victims … [of the incident] which occurred during routine work on our mining lease,” they said.

“Mine workers and cultural heritage workers at our Carmichael mine have the right to feel safe at work and go about their jobs free from intimidation, harassment, or violence.”

The man is expected to appear before Clermont Magistrates Court on April 12.