Stawell Gold Mines owner, Newmarket Gold has welcomed an independent review of its gold mining operations in Stawell.
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The Victorian Government appointed an independent community facilitator Nicole Hunter and environmental expert, Dr Peter Beck, to review operations of the Stawell Gold Mine and to consult with the community.
Stawell Gold Mines general manager, Troy Cole welcomed the initiative and felt that this was an opportunity for independent review of Stawell Gold Mines’ operations practice, licensing and regulatory transparency.
In addition, there is an opportunity for continuous improvement through community consultation.
“SGM has been operating in Stawell for more than 30 years,” Mr Cole said.
“We are a trusted mining operator, a major employer and a community partner. Even more importantly, public health and safety are an absolute priority for us and we conduct all our operations in a safe and sustainable manner.”
A workshop was held at the Stawell Secondary College on Tuesday night, which was attended by around 150 residents. The workshop aimed at raising issues in relation to the current mining operation, to enable Dr Beck to undertake an independent review.
“The workshop provided residents with an opportunity to raise concerns about the mine’s operations that would be further investigated through the ministerial process,” Mr Cole said.
Dr Beck will prepare a report for the Government to consider following his review. In announcing the review, the Government said it was committed to developing a strong resources sector that had the confidence of the community and industry.
Mr Cole said that while the review was taking place, Stawell Gold Mines would continue to explore and investigate future opportunity.
“Stawell Gold Mines and our parent company Newmarket Gold see ourselves as a part of Stawell’s future - providing ongoing employment, investing in the community through our many projects and providing a strong economic base,” Mr Cole said.
“We know that mining is critical to Stawell and the Victorian economy. Mining supports local jobs, economic activity and community investment.”
Mr Cole said Stawell Gold Mines would continue to work closely with all stakeholders as this engagement process is progressed.
