Northern Grampians Shire Council says the decision to not open cut Big Hill in Stawell will affect one-fifth of the town’s economy.
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Minister for Planning Matthew Guy this morning issued a press release stating the independent panel had recommended the project should not go ahead.
Mayor Kevin Erwin said the way in which Council and Crocodile Gold had found out about the decision was appalling.
“Neither Council or the mine had any idea this decision had been made. We have been completely blindsided this morning,” he said.
“The decision has been made and we must abide by it but to say we are disappointed by the way it has been announced by the state government is an understatement.
“Mining has been the major contributor to this town’s economy for over a century. It’s not just the mine itself that is affected by this decision – it’s the contractors, too. Engineering, electrical, servicing, and equipment companies will all be impacted.”
Mayor Erwin said his Council now called on the government to provide clarity around the next steps in the process.
“We implore the government to provide Council, Crocodile Gold, and our community with more information. We need clarity around the next steps in the process and the timeframes attached to them.
“The impacts of this decision are severe and we need to know what is going to happen next so that we can prepare ourselves as a town.
“As a Council and community we have planned for the eventual closure of the mine and we are now seeking solid government commitments to invest in economic and community development to sustain the future of not only Stawell but the entire region.
“We have invested a great deal of time and money into exploring alternative options for the site. The collaboration between Council, Stawell Gold Mine, COEPP and the INFN on the Dark Matter project is one of the most innovative ideas this town, and indeed this state, has ever seen. This decision places a huge question mark over the ability to establish and operate this scientific research facility.
“We need the government to step up and include us and the mine in this process for the good of our community. This isn’t about politics – it’s about our people, our businesses and our future.”
