More than a thousand passionate Stawell residents gathered at the top of Big Hill earlier tonight in a strong show of support for the open cut proposal put forward by Stawell Gold Mines.
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The residents walked and caught rides in courtesy buses to gather at the memorial on top of Big Hill and offer their support to the Big Hill Enhanced Development Project.
Many residents have expressed their dismay following a recommendation by Planning Minister Matthew Guy, that the open cut proposal should not proceed.
The recommendation and particularly the way it was delivered by the Minister, also drew criticism from Northern Grampians Shire Councillors, many of whom attended tonight's rally.
Stawell Gold Mines General Manager Troy Cole, said tonight's gathering of well in excess of 1000 residents was a strong show of support for the mine and its proposal.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, the residents of Stawell, for your strong show of support here to night," Mr Cole said.
"We are working hard to overcome all the challenges that have been presented to us. This is not over by a long shot yet."
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