Study delves into options for gold mine site

Work on a feasibility study to identify and assess future uses for the Stawell Gold Mine site is making strong headway.

The $250,000 project is being funded by the federal and state governments and contributions from Northern Grampians Shire Council and Stawell Gold Mines.

A Project Control Group (PCG) has been established to contribute local and industry expertise to the Stawell Gold Mines Future Possibilities Feasibility Study, and has identified five key product streams to investigate. These include tourism products, waste opportunities, training opportunities, industrial uses and commercial recreation uses.

Mayor Cr Wayne Rice said the Project Control Group (PCG) invited over 20 submissions for the various projects and received 15 high quality responses across the five areas of investigation.

“We are extremely pleased with the progress that is being made on this project. To date, three consultancies have been appointed to undertake the scope of works identified in the brief, and will start work immediately,” he said.

“AEC Group Limited will look at the tourism aspect, SED Advisory will work on infrastructure, commercial recreation and training, and Fox-Lane Consulting will investigate waste, with an overall focus on identifying feasible options that will provide the greatest community benefit in terms of employment, the economy and community amenity.

“The PCG has recommended the formation of various Technical Working Groups (TWGs) to support the consultants in achieving the best outcomes in the short time allocated. These TWGs will include Council staff and external stakeholders, including people from within our local community.”

The Stawell Gold Mines Future Possibilities Feasibility Study will seek the expertise of groups and individuals where appropriate. Anyone not part of the feasibility project engagement can still contribute by sending a written outline of their ideas to the project coordinator who will present them to the PCG for consideration.

For more information visit Northern Grampians Shire Council