Meet the Regulator sessions in the Kimberley attract good crowds.
| Date: | Friday, 07 April 2017 |
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A series of Meet the Regulator sessions in Broome and Derby recently attracted good crowds with attendees keen to learn about current activity on projects in the Kimberley.
The Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP) organised the meetings as part of its Lead Agency Project’s stakeholder engagement program, with representatives from the Department of Water also taking part.
DMP Senior Advisor Graham Cobby said there had been a positive response to the information sessions, including those held with the Shire of Broome and Shire of Derby.
He said the focus was primarily on how Government would regulate the Sheffield Resources Thunderbird Mineral Sands Project proposal, but other projects were also discussed in response to questions raised.
"About 80 people attended the breakfast event in Broome, which was arranged by the local Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and there was also a good turnout at the Derby Chamber of Commerce’s session," Mr Cobby said.
"Holding these sessions allowed us, as regulators, to not only provide detailed information but to also directly address any concerns including those about possible environmental impacts, water usage and rehabilitation.
"The Thunderbird Mineral Sands Project is expected to have a mine life of more than 40 years and will make a major social and economic contribution to the region.
"The company anticipates construction will begin in 2017 and that production will start in 2019. It is expected to create about 140 permanent local jobs, and will use both Broome and Derby ports."
Mr Cobby said the environmental impact was considered to be low as the mine would be progressively rehabilitated.
