Resources Victoria has issued Infringement Notices to Victory Minerals after a site inspection identified unauthorised construction, changed infrastructure and vegetation removal at Ballarat Gold Mine.
Removing vegetation can increase the amount of dust from operations, impact the level of rehabilitation required and influence long-term site restoration.
The state's mining regulator continues monitoring a range of operational issues at Ballarat Gold Mine to ensure the site is managed in-line with the Victoria's mining regulations.
Unauthorised work within an existing pit at the mine resulted in its permitted size being exceeded, impacting the type and amount rehabilitation required to restore the site in the long-term.
To protect the environment and ensure land can eventually be restored, potential impacts from mining activity must be thoroughly assessed and a work plan approved by Resources Victoria. The work plan must identify, assess and minimise risks to ensure operations remain safe.
To limit the impact of mining operations on nearby communities and the environment, Victorian mines must comply with their approved work plan.
Resources Victoria will continue closely monitoring activity at Ballarat Gold Mine to help make sure Victory Minerals meet the state's stringent mining regulations and high community expectations.
Resources Victoria oversees the state's minerals, petroleum and quarrying sectors to protect public safety and the environment.
Attribute quotes to Resources Victoria Chief Inspector Renee Palmer
"We'll continue to have a strong focus on compliance at Ballarat Gold Mine to make sure operations are appropriately managed and are in-line with the site's work plan."
"We will use all the tools at our disposal to ensure that companies entrusted with access to the state's resources are managing sites properly to protect communities and the environment."
