Information about potential new minerals exploration activity across the Western District will be revealed in a series of information sessions that began on Monday at Mortlake.
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The community information sessions follow the state government’s recent announcement of tenders for exploration licences in the 9500 square kilometre ‘Stavely Arc’ geological area that extends from north of Terang to north of Nhill.
State Resources Minister Tim Pallas said new geoscience research had revealed western Victoria might have deposits of copper, gold and other metals that could be the catalyst for a new wave of investment and jobs.
Mr Pallas said the release of 11 large parcels of land in the southern Stavely Arc geological area for minerals exploration would balance “protecting the environment and landholder rights, with job creation and direct investment across western Victoria.”
Earth Resources executive director John Krbaleski said very few of the exploration licences ended up in full mining operations.
Low impact minerals exploration activity such as sampling, surveys, mapping and analysis could start next year.
“Gas and coal exploration is excluded and licences will not be available for any land in national and state parks, wilderness areas or areas of local significance,” he said.
Community information sessions will also be held in Dunkeld, Willaura, Cavendish, Laharum, Balmoral, Ararat, Nhill and Horsham until Thursday, 2 August.
“We want the community to have the opportunity to come and have a chat about this program and find out more about minerals exploration,” Mr Krbaleski said.
Staff running the information sessions will answer local questions and address any concerns.
The tender process for exploration licences include grant co-funding from the state government’s $15 million TARGET Minerals Exploration Initiative.
Mr Pallas said many regional Victorian towns had benefited from the minerals industry. Recent gold discoveries at Fosterville Gold Mine have boosted Bendigo’s economy.
The mine employs 445 people, with eight out of 10 living in the Greater Bendigo region, he said.
The government is aiding exploration by providing geoscience data and a focus on suitable areas for minerals exploration.