Approximately 14 Km north along the Bucketts Way near the small communities of Allworth and Limeburners Creek NSW is a small hill name "Ironstone Mountain".
The adjacent land contains a mineral called Magnetite, a magnetic ore that is used in the coal mining industry in the separation process. An exploration licence has been granted over an area of about 24 sq. Km covering some 55 properties to a mining company "Mineral Innovations" allowing exploration for group 1 minerals (ferrous). The company representatives have told the community they are specifically after Magnetite but the licence is for any group 1 mineral.
Already, there is a significant diversion of opinions concerning the possible affects this licence and any following grants leading to actual mining may have on the area. For instance my particular concern, apart from the possible affects on the general environment, is the possibility of considerable devaluation of this my major asset. Others will of course see things differently. However, there is general concern and confusion as to rights, obligations and compensation, even at the exploratory stage.
The area immediately surrounding the mountain is prime grazing country and diverse bush-land - it is also prime Koala habitat. Interestingly, mining is not allowed on agricultural land (the area is largely zoned 1A - agricultural use), however the Government conveniently redefines the general definition of agricultural land so as not to include grazing - it must be cropped.
Local councils also play a part when it comes to mining - a DA must submitted. Councils would seem an obvious authority to represent the interests of all the community and the environment (as they go to great pains to advertise). The community needs Council help but it seems from recent community meetings, that this may not be taken for granted.
If the community at large is adverse to an open cut mine in the near vicinity, it would appear that a concerted effort at information dissemination at all levels may be the most appropriate.