Earth Resources Regulation continues to ensure mine operators act appropriately and comply with their obligations by stepping in when standards are breached.
The Bendigo Magistrates' Court yesterday placed former Kralcopic Pty Ltd officer, John Harrison, on a Diversion Plan for 12 months for continuing to mine after the company's licences were not renewed.
In 2019 Kralcopic's mining licences were not renewed by Earth Resources Regulation because the company could not finance its mining activities and site rehabilitation obligations, as required under the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) Act 1990.
Kralcopic continued mining at its Kangaroo Flat site without a mining licence.
Mr Harrison acknowledged responsibility for the offence and has been ordered to pay $10,000 to the court fund as part of the Diversion Plan, with the money to be made available across the Bendigo community.
Mr Harrison must also write a letter expressing his remorse and thanks for the opportunity to finalise the matter by way of the Diversion Plan.
Earth Resources Regulation regulates Victorian mines to protect public safety and the environment.
Quotes attributable to Earth Resources Regulation's Executive Director Anthony Hurst:
"We welcome the court's decision which upholds the regulatory standards in place to protect the community and environment."
"Operators are obliged to do the right thing and work within their approvals to manage risks to people, the environment and land that are associated with their activities. We will not tolerate unauthorised mining activity."
"Public confidence in the mining sector and jobs it creates depends on operators acting appropriately and with the required approvals. We'll step in to protect communities and environments when these standards are breached."
