Linc Energy fined $4.5m for pollution amounting to 'ecological vandalism'
by Ben Smee from on (#3PYEG)
Prosecution seen as key test of Queensland's ability to hold mining companies to account
The failed Queensland energy company Linc Energy has been slapped with one of the state's largest environmental fines and ordered to pay $4.5m for contaminating farmland in the state's western downs.
Judge Michael Shanahan said the company's actions amounted to "ecological vandalism".
But questions remain about whether the company's liquidators, who pleaded not guilty but chose not to mount a defence in the Brisbane district court, can be forced to pay the fine and an estimated $72m cleanup bill.