Gina Rinehart hands back portion of contentious onshore gas exploration permit around iconic Mataranka Hot Springs

AUSTRALIA’S richest woman has handed back a portion of a contentious onshore gas exploration permit creating a 25km buffer around the iconic Mataranka Hot Springs

Hancock Prospecting has created a 25km buffer zone around Mataranka by handing back a portion of its exploration licenses Picture: SUPPLIED

AUSTRALIA’S richest woman has handed back a portion of a contentious onshore gas exploration permit creating a 25km buffer around the iconic Mataranka Hot Springs.

The buffer zone also includes the Roper River. Gina Rinehart, owner of Hancock Prospecting, has handed back 22 blocks as part of its exploration permit, EP154.

The area borders Mataranka Hot Springs, which is an already reserved block and cannot be explored or developed for resource purposes despite claims by opponents of fracking it could be.

In its submission to the Scientific Inquiry into Hydraulic Fracturing in the Northern Territory, Hancock Prospecting said it “recognises concerns in the community” within the exploration lease area of EP154 located near Mataranka, about 460km south of Darwin.

Chief executive officer Garry Korte said even though it believes these places would not be at risk, it had voluntarily relinquished portions of lease EP154 to the Northern Territory Government.

Mr Korte also confirmed Hancock was prepared to spend the $200 million on exploration.

“Hancock has advised that even though it believes these places would not be at risk, it has voluntarily relinquished portions of lease EP154 to the Northern Territory Government, to allow for an approximate 25km exploration buffer area from Mataranka Hot Springs and the Roper River,” he said.

“Hancock recognises concerns in the community in regards to areas within the exploration lease area of EP154 located near Mataranka, notwithstanding that these areas were previously approved by the Traditional Owners.

“Should exploration be allowed to occur, Hancock Prospecting is committed to investing in an exploration program that if successful could result in up to $200 million in development expenditure that would greatly benefit regional economies in the NT, particularly Katherine, Tennant Creek and the greater Barkly area.”

The Department is currently undergoing the process of relinquishment. Relinquished area will revert to Aboriginal Freehold land.

Originally published as Gina Rinehart hands back portion of contentious onshore gas exploration permit around iconic Mataranka Hot Springs