By Oliver Lees
An application to explore suitable gold mining locations in the Macedon Ranges is “in conflict with the values of the area”, according to a local environmental organisation.
On March 25 the Australasian branch of the London-based mining company Red Rock Resources had an application approved to explore a 352 square kilometre area which includes parts of Lancefield, Romsey, Monegeetta and Clarkefield.
Mining exploration is the process of determining whether minerals can be extracted from the ground and may include a range of activities, from water and soil sampling, clearing of vegetation and drilling.
Deep Creek Landcare Lancefield, Romsey & Monegeetta ex-president Robin Ford says not only does the project pose a risk to the environment, but described the community consultation process as “outdated and unfair”.
“We’re disappointed on two fronts, because the application is not suitable for this region and because they need to evolve their processes,” he said.
The application was advertised in Star Weekly last week.
According to the Victorian Government’s Earth Resources Regulator (ERR), objections or comments must be lodged within 21 days after the latest date on which the application was advertised, meaning the original consultation period was scheduled to end on April 15.
However Mr Ford said when he attempted to use the provided online portal to submit a formal objection to the application, he received an error message.
Monegeetta-based cattle farmer Randall Gerkens is concerned about how the project could directly affect the land on which his livelihood depends.
“The process of mining by its very nature destroys pasture, soil and vegetation and
introduces harmful chemicals into the environment,” Mr Gerkens said.
“Farm land is never the same after mining occurs.
“It just shows it’s a form filing exercise for them, they deliberately don’t make it easy for residents.”
Macedon Ranges council is one of only four councils in Victoria with a Distinctive Areas and Landscape Act, which outlines a commitment to protecting unique and sensitive environments.
A Red Rock Australasia spokesperson said community consultation would be ongoing through the license period and there will be “no lasting social or environmental impacts” of their exploration.
“It is our legal obligation to advertise as per the government guidelines: which requires a local and statewide physically printed advertisement,” they said.
A spokesperson for the Earth Resources Regulator told Star Weekly they will be extending the feedback period by 10 days to account for the faulty website, which has now been fixed.
“We apologise for any inconvenience to community members,” they said.
Complaints and objections can be sent until April 25 directly to: licensing.err@ecodev.vic.gov.au
