The Queensland government is opening new ground in the state’s western opal country for small-scale mining, proposing a 15,000-hectare expansion to Opalton-Mayneside Restricted Area.
The proposal would add 494 sub-blocks to the existing restricted area, giving small-scale opal miners up to an additional 155,000 hectares for prospecting. It will ensure that small-scale operators have access to viable ground and opal mining opportunities in the future.
The expansion is part of the state government’s fresh start for the resources sector, ensuring that small-scale miners have the same opportunities as larger operators.
Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the proposal is part of the government’s push to strengthen the entire sector.
“The Opalton-Mayneside fields are at the heart of Queensland’s opal mining industry,” Minister Last said.
“We’re making sure we provide opportunities for the entire resources sector and we’re backing our small-scale miners so they have more opportunities for exploration.
“A resource assessment by the Geological Survey of Queensland shows the expansion area has great potential for opal discovery and that gives us confidence that this proposal will bring real benefits to the industry, community and to small-scale miners on the ground.”
Local mayors supported the proposal, saying that the expansion would bring momentum back to an industry that contributes to the economy of Queensland.
Mayor of Winton Shire Council Cathy White said: “This decision provides much-needed certainty for the opal industry, particularly in supporting future investment, and will underpin the long-term sustainability of a sector that proudly showcases Australia’s national gemstone.”
Mayor of Barcoo Shire Council Sally O’Neil said the opal industry delivered wide-reaching benefits for communities.
“Greater opportunities for small-scale miners and fossickers mean more tourists, more activity and more economic benefits for our communities,” Mayor O’Neil said.
