Australia's largest mandarin grower slams mining decision - FreshFruitPortal.com

Australia's largest mandarin grower slams mining decision

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Australia's largest mandarin grower slams mining decision

Australia's largest mandarin producer has hit out at a decision by eight Queensland councils to allow exploratory mining in Gayndah where four of its orchards lie, the Australian Broadcasting CorporationĀ (ABC) reported.

Gayndah Packers Co-operative general manager Barry Scott, says he's worried about the move.

"Anything that affects groundwater or has the potential to affect groundwater could impact on growers, because most of the growers have a bore as a back-up to their river irrigation systems," he was quoted as saying.

North Burnett Regional Council mayor Joy Jenson, said there were still secure protections in place, the story reported.

"Currently, there's quite an extensive consultation process before any mining venture can take place," she was quoted as saying.

"We also were aware of the feasibility studies dealing with the environment and social issues that have to be undertaken before the development of mining leases."

However, seven other local councils have opted out of the decision to allow exploratory mining.

A two kilometre exploratory mining ban still applies for all Queensland towns with more than 1,000 people.

Photo: Minag

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