Victoria’s Earth Resources department has green-lighted the reopening of a dormant copper and zinc mine in East Gippsland. This project is expected to create more than 500 local jobs and it will involve the development of the Stockman mine tailings dam in Benambra.
Round Oak - mine owner, formerly known as Copper Chem - has estimated approximately 150,000 tonnes of copper and zinc will be extracted from the mine over the next decade. Employment opportunities will include about 300 jobs during mine construction and 250 once the mine is operational.
Treasurer and Resources Minister Tim Pallas’ spokesperson said that the project will be delivering a much needed boost to the region’s local economy.
“This project has the potential to create hundreds of local jobs and a real boost for the local community,” the spokesperson said.
Round Oak has agreed to comply with strict obligations before the company can reopen the mine.
This development will include building a 44-metre high tailings dam at Lake St Barbara - where the former tailings dam was located - in order to contain the liquid spoil coming from the mine.
The Minister’s spokesperson added: “The company will need to develop a detailed work plan for the site before any mining commences, and comply with strict environmental and engineering requirements if it becomes operational.”
East Gippsland Shire Mayor Joe Rettino has welcomed the announcement of the mine’s approval, saying that he is confident safeguards will be put in place in order to protect the environment. He added that the job opportunities will give the region a boost.
“They are going to create some high tech, high paying and skilled jobs, and there’s the flow on of training and apprentices,” Mr Rettino said.
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