Potential new gold fossicking area at Mount Morgan’s No 7 Dam

Gold hunters could soon have access to a large fossicking area in a town once home to one of the world’s most lucrative gold mines.

Mount Morgan residents are encouraged to have their say on the potential establishment of a fossicking area at No. 7 Dam.

Gold hunters could soon have access to a large fossicking area to search for gold in Mount Morgan, a Central Queensland town home to one of the world’s most lucrative gold mines.

Rockhampton Regional Council is exploring the creation of a General Permission Area (GPA) at Mount Morgan’s No 7 Dam, which would allow licensed fossickers to search for gold in the area.

Mayor Tony Williams said the council was seeking new ways to encourage economic growth in the culturally rich town and support its proud gold mining heritage.

“Mount Morgan draws in tourists from across the country and opening No 7 Dam up for fossicking is one way we can encourage more people to travel to the region and experience the thrill of finding gold,” he said.

The proposed fossicking area. Picture: RRC

“The establishment of a General Permission Area can help increase tourism and spend within the community, supporting local jobs and businesses.”

Strict conditions would be in place to ensure the preservation of the natural environment and safety at No 7 Dam, including designated fossicking areas, the use of hand tools only and the requirement to immediately refill excavations.

Councillor Cherie Rutherford said this was an important opportunity for the Mount Morgan community to have its say and help shape the proposal, with community consultation now open.

Councillor Cherie Rutherford and Mayor Tony Williams. Picture: RRC

“We want to work with the local community to ensure we get the balance right between use and opportunity and we build support for these measures,” she said.

“There are a number of measures proposed to protect the natural environment and keep residents who use the dam safe.

He encouraged people to provide feedback through the Engage Rockhampton Region website.

Mount Morgan No.7 Dam. Pic: RRC

Consultation on the GPA and its proposed measures will close on July 1.

If endorsed by the council, implementation of a GPA will also require a new Land Management Plan and both would have to be approved by the Queensland Department of Resources.

Horse Creek and Leydens Hill were considered as alternative sites but were deemed unsuitable.

Heritage Minerals is undertaking work at the Mount Morgan Mine.

Western Australian company Heritage Minerals took over the Mount Morgan Mine in mid-2020 and last year work to revive what was once the world’s largest open pit mine began.

The mine is expected to produce up to 7.5 tonnes of gold and 5,600 tonnes of copper.