Horsham Rural City Council are continuing to actively pursue improved outcomes for community ahead of any decision on the Avonbank Mining Licence.
In a recent meeting with Resources Victoria, Mayor Cr Brian Klowss reinforced concerns raised in a letter written to Minister for Energy and Resources, towards the end of last year.
The proposed Avonbank Mineral Sands Mine is a significant development for Horsham Rural City and the Wimmera region, and it is important that the social, environmental and economic impacts are appropriately considered and managed.
"I need to be assured that Minister Lily D'Ambrosio understands how the community are feeling about this project. Late last year the Minister committed to meet with Council on this matter. As the holiday period has now past, I'm anticipating I'll have a date for that meeting to occur in the very near future," Cr Klowss explained.
"Not only does the community want assurances that the Minister understands community concerns, we also want assurances as to how the project proponent WIM Resources, will respond to these concerns. How are they going to ensure there are no negative impacts from this proposal?"
"Until there is further consultation to address these matters, it is difficult for Council to be satisfied that the mining licence should be granted," Cr Klowss said.
A decision on the mining licence is scheduled for some time in February 2026.
"We know Resources Victoria and the Minister are considering this decision right now and Council is calling on Minister D'Ambrosio to demonstrate how she is listening to our concerns and responding, for everyone's benefit."
"This decision is too important for current and future generations to get wrong." Cr Klowss said.
