Dorothy Simmons learns more about the Big Hill Enhanced Development project from Anne Murrell at the drop in session on Saturday. The session attracted good numbers and will be followed by a further session tomorrow at the RSL. Picture: MARK McMILLAN
STAWELL - Stawell residents took the opportunity to learn more about the Big Hill Enhanced Development project, at the first comunity drop-in session held on Saturday.
Stawell Gold Mines senior personnel were on hand at the session to provide information about the proposed development, which would involve the open cut mining of Big Hill.
Stawell Gold Mines general manager, Troy Cole, said a second session would be held tomorrow, at the Stawell RSL in Scallan Street.
The session tomorrow will include short presentations and these will be held at 5pm, 6pm and 7pm.
Mr Cole said strong interest had been shown by the community in the project, announced by Stawell Gold Mines management in late January.
"We are mindful of the importance of Big Hill to the region and the history it represents and are therefore committed to keeping the community informed and engaged," Mr Cole said.
The mine announced in January that it had lodged an Environment Effects Statement (EES) referral with the Victorian Planning Minister relating to Big Hill, to determine the process it will need to follow to pursue the Big Hill Enhanced Development Project.
The Big Hill Enhanced Development Project will retain 80 to 100 jobs and is a four to five year project including a progressive rehabilitation program.
Mr Cole said while this project has been proposed before, this is an enhanced project with a major difference being the full reinstatement of Big Hill to its original landform once mining is complete.
For more information on the project call 1800 771 729 or email enquiries@crocgold.com.ay
