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Stavely project ban lifted

THE temporary hold on mineral exploration applications over ground in the Stavely Project Area has been lifted.

The newly available area covers parts of north and east of Hamilton, the Wimmera, as well as areas around Mortlake.

Under the Mineral Resources (Sustainable Development) ACT 1990 - SECT 7, the resources minister may put a hold on land from being subject to a licence if, for example, in the minister's opinion, the exemption is required to protect land that is of significant environmental importance.

Geological Survey of Victoria director, Paul McDonald said that “in the lead up to the Stavely Ground Release in 2018, a temporary hold on accepting exploration licence applications was put in place by the government for ground in the region known as the Stavely Arc”. 

 “This was done to ensure strong exploration interest and high-quality applications after significant new regional geological data was released.”

Geologists have concluded that several belts of Cambrian-age volcanic rocks in Western Victoria were formed in a geological environment known as a magmatic arc, a geological setting known to be associated with important deposits of copper, gold and other base metals. 

There is also potential for mineral sands and gypsum. 

In western Victoria, these rocks have been collectively called the Stavely Arc.

Background information provided by Earth Resources Victoria stated that targeted mineral studies have been underway in Western Victoria to ensure any industry activities balance the economic and job opportunities for locals while minimising potential impact on landholders.

It said that in 2020, minerals’ sector expenditure exceeded $130 million across the Stavely Ground Release local council areas. This spending supports small rural businesses, including local contractors, service stations selling fuel, motels providing accommodation, and pubs, bakeries and cafés selling meals.

 Mineral explorers often set up offices in the region and employ locals. 

Across the Stavely Ground Release local council areas, 440 people are employed in the minerals’ sector, receiving almost $70 million in wages. In Victoria, mineral explorers must hold a licence before they can begin their activities.

Licences are granted and managed by the Victorian Resources minister, through Earth Resource Regulation.

This ground will be available for exploration applications from May 2.

More information is available from Stavely Minerals Exploration Initiative - Earth Resources.

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