Horsham Rural City Council has adopted a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with WIM Resources that formally maps out how a proposed mineral sands mine at Dooen would be mutually beneficial for stakeholders and the region.
Located about 15 kilometres northeast of Horsham, the proposed Avonbank mine contains about 300 million tonnes of ore and is proposed to produce a heavy mineral concentrate containing zircon, rare earths and titanium minerals.
HRCC Chief Executive Officer Sunil Bhalla said while the Victorian Government was exclusively responsible for approving the mine, the MoU would ensure a collaborative relationship between the mining sector and Council for the benefit of the community.
"The MoU maps out ways to opportunities to engage with the mining industry and help secure better outcomes for the community and for WIM Resources," Mr Bhalla said.
"With four of the world's largest sand-mining projects within a 70-kilometre radius of Horsham, this is an opportunity to develop closer working relationships and underline the specific roles and obligations of each of the parties," he said.
Project leaders have marked 2023 for mining operations to start. Predictions are that the Avonbank mine will generate millions of dollars for the Horsham district economy.
WIM Resources will seek public review of the project after an environmental effects statement (EES) and feasibility study are completed later this year.
