Fox Resources on location of proposed Bundaberg mine

Mining business Fox Resources has refuted claims it has chosen a mine site but a farmer and agricultural scientist disagrees.

Bundaberg region farming advocate Judy Plath and Fox Resources’ Bruce Garlick.

The Fox Resources Regional Reference Group came together to discuss the proposed Bundaberg mine last week.

Fox Resources’ executive director Bruce Garlick chaired the meeting and Fox Resources discussed the criteria for determining the success of the exploration phase necessary to proceed to the mineral development licence (MDL) phase.

Under their MDL 3040 application, the company plans to drill five boreholes for exploration purposes.

The company will evaluate further steps based on the drilling results and additional technical studies.

Any progression will involve a comprehensive environmental impact statement process through Queensland and Australian government bodies.

“Fox Resources has planned the drilling of boreholes on public land, such as areas near roads, avoiding interference with agricultural activities or local residents,” Mr Garlick said.

Former Resources Minister Anthony Lynham clarified that an MDL is not a mining licence and does not grant mining rights but allows for detailed exploration to assess the feasibility of a mining project.

Fox Resources aims to create about 200 high-paying jobs and inject about $45 million annually into the local economy, with project royalties potentially supporting critical infrastructure projects like the redevelopment of Paradise Dam.

Commenting on recent ‘false’ claims, Mr Garlick said, “Fox Resources completely rejects uninformed speculation regarding the potential location of a new mine near Bundaberg”.

In response to Mr Garlick’s statements, Judy Plath, a farmer and agricultural scientist, said Fox Resources was trying to confuse the Bundaberg community with vague claims about its plans to drill boreholes.

Fox Resources CEO Bruce Garlick said resource department regulations would prevent the mine from causing adverse impacts on surrounding communities and agriculture from coal dust and groundwater pollution.

Ms Plath highlighted the significant value of farming and agricultural activities in the region.

“Fox Resources just does not appreciate the $2 billion value of local farming and value-adding of food and beverages in this region and believes agriculture should move aside to allow a mining project to be developed,” Ms Plath said.

Regarding Fox Resources’ assertions about potential economic benefits, Ms Plath was sceptical.

“I am insulted by Fox Resources claiming that royalties from their mine may pay for the redevelopment of Paradise Dam,” she said.

Ms Plath questioned Fox Resources’ consistency.

In light of Fox Resources’ assertions regarding the regulatory process, Ms Plath had concerns about the company’s disregard for local agricultural interests.

“Fox Resources keep harping on about government regulations while blindly ignoring the concerns of this region’s farmers,” Ms Plath said.
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Originally published as Fox Resources on location of proposed Bundaberg mine