Fosterville progresses to next stage

Agnico Eagle Mines’ Fosterville gold mine near Bendigo can now apply to vary its work plan following the Victorian Government’s approval of its environment effects statement (EES).

This marks a key step for the state’s largest gold producer, with the EES approval and signed off by Victorian Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny, as it allows Agnico to formally submit a series of work plan variations to the Earth Resources Regulator.

Fosterville is expected to apply for permission to change its work plan to establish a new tailings storage facility, along with an upgrade to vents at the mine.

The Earth Resources Regulator will assess the proposed changes to ensure they align with the recommendations outlined in the EES.

“This endorsement reflects the dedication of our team and the valuable input of community members, technical experts, and government representatives,” Agnico Eagle vice president of Australian operations Ion Hann said of the EES on May 26.

“We will continue to do what we have always done – investing locally, fostering meaningful relationships with our business partners and suppliers, and working with our neighbours and surrounding communities to benefit our great region.”

The EES assessment found that potential impacts can be acceptably managed, provided that strengthened environmental management practices and amended mitigation measures are adopted.

This includes enhanced monitoring of noise, vibration and air quality, as well as a new surface water monitoring system to protect groundwater and local waterways.

“We’re making sure safeguards are in place to protect the environment, while also creating more jobs and boosting Bendigo’s economy,” Kilkenny said on May 24.

Fosterville’s planned expansion is expected to support more than 1000 jobs and inject $1.3 billion into the Bendigo economy over the next 10 years.

“Gold mining is woven into the fabric of Bendigo’s history – and this expansion will continue that legacy, supporting more than a thousand jobs and injecting more than $1 billion into our economy,” Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said.

Fosterville has produced more than 4.4 million ounces of gold to date, while supporting over 620 local suppliers and contributing more than $256 million to the wider Victorian economy.