The City of Greater Bendigo has made a submission to Fosterville Gold Mine's Sustained Operations Project Environmental Effects Statement.
The mine is wanting to extend its operational life by 10 years by growing its underground operations and existing open pits, construction of new tailings storage and associated works, new evaporation pond and waste rock dump, and aquifer recharge program.
The Minister for Planning determined the mine needed an updated EES, with the current one dating back to 1997. The Minister set the scope for the EES to include construction, operation and rehabilitation associated with extending its operations, as well as existing mining activities and other works that have previously been approved to take place on site. The community was recently able to provide input into the consultation process.
Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said since 2005, the mine has provided significant direct and indirect economic benefits to the Greater Bendigo community.
"The City recognises the mine is a key employer in the region, with more than 600 staff, and that a range of local businesses support the mine's operations by making parts and providing other services. The mine is also a generous sponsor and supporter of many community events, projects and other initiatives.
"While the benefits are clear, it was important to the City to use its submission to the EES to represent the broader community and seek a balance in development while managing the long term impacts of large-scale mining such as this.
"The mine takes its environmental and social responsibilities seriously and has proven it has a commitment to our community and the land it operates on. The City would welcome the opportunity to work with the mine and help ensure wide support for its operations into the future."
The Minister for Planning will decide if the expansion can proceed and any conditions that should be applied. There will be an opportunity for the City to appear at a public hearing for submitters at a later date.
