Mount Todd gold mine gets green light after management plan approved

The Territory Government has given the green light to Vista Gold Australia to recommence mining operations at its Mount Todd Mine, in what it is hailing as ‘a massive boost for local jobs’.

Mining and Industry Minister Nicole Manison says the project will create up to 450 jobs

THE Territory Government has given the green light to Vista Gold Australia to recommence mining operations at its Mount Todd Mine, in what it is hailing as “a massive boost for local jobs”.

The mine has been mothballed since ceasing operations in 2000 and has been overseen by Vista Gold since the company acquired the mineral titles in 2006.

Vista Gold’s mining management plan (MMP) has now been assessed by the Territory Government as meeting the requirements of the Mining Management Act 2001 and consistent with all environmental requirements.

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The government has also signed off on the company’s efforts to address previous recommendations from the NT Environment Protection Authority and holds an Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority certificate.

Mining and Industry Minister Nicole Manison said the Mount Todd project would support around 450 jobs during construction and 350 jobs during peak production.

“Mining is a huge job creator for Territorians — employing over 4400 people directly,” she said.

“The total value of mineral production in the NT for 2019-20 was $4.4 billion and establishing new mines creates local jobs for Territorians and significantly boosts our economy.

“This is the fifth major mine approval over the past 12 months in the NT and a further step to strategically position us as a globally-significant hub for mineral exploration.”

Vista Gold chief executive Frederick H. Earnest said the approval was a “landmark achievement” for the company.

“We believe that the approval of the MMP distinguishes Mount Todd as one of the most attractive, partner-ready development projects in the world and places it at the top of a unique class of gold projects,” he said.

“Large-scale production, low operating costs, mining friendly jurisdiction, substantial existing infrastructure, storing social and government support and now, with all major authorisations in hand.”

Ms Manison said the Mount Todd project was now the fifth significant mine approved in the past 12 months, in line with the Territory Economic Reconstruction Commission’s final report.

It follows approvals for Core Lithium’s Finniss Project, Nathan River Resources’ Nathan River Project, the McArthur River Mine overburden management project and KGL’s Jervois Mining project.

Originally published as Mount Todd gold mine gets green light after management plan approved