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What’s News? (Issue 32)

By on April 4, 2007

CMPA General Meeting

Thank you to all those who attended the General Meeting held at Metaltec Precision International.

Unfortunately the EPA presentation on the requirements of the Protocol for Environmental Management (Mining and Extractive Industries) was cancelled on the day due to the EPA not being ready to present the draft to industry. Progress is not expected for at least another month.

Thanks to Mr Beaumont for his insight on the financial health of quarries at such short notice.

Mount Granite Quarries Lease

For those who have followed the CMPA’s interest in the Mount Granite Quarries lease issue, you would be aware that the sharp escalation of Crown Land licence fees pressured a dimensional stone quarry to the brink of closure.

Owner Mr Vin Oliver protested to the DSE and sought assistance from the CMPA who coordinated an independent valuation which determined the fees to be excessive.

Following several months with no response from the DSE, Mr Oliver turned to the Office of the Small Business Commissioner in November 2005. After many letters going to and fro, a date for mediation was set in February this year. Within a couple of days this letter, the DSE suddenly agreed to visit Mr Oliver’s site.

The DSE have made an offer and the two parties are currently working on an agreement. The CMPA will continue to keep Members informed.

Dust Management Guidelines

Following the presentation of the CMPA’s Dust Management documentation to WorkCover and the DPI, a meeting has occurred with the CMPA and the two authorities to discuss the documentation and clarify their stance.

Overall, the comments were very positive and the released document should greatly assist members. The document will be released to Members shortly.

Medical Monitoring

The Medical Monitoring guidelines developed by the CMPA are presently being reviewed by occupational hygienists at WorkCover and DPI. The documents will then be presented to an external third party for review and comments.

Rehabilitation Bonds

As a result of the EIDA review, the CMPA has undertaken further investigation into the area of rehabilitation bonds. Interstate and international case studies have been considered to identify those tools most useful in our situation.

In some countries, for example, sites may negotiate the means of funding a bond, whilst others use mutual funds. Eg:

  • Canada – Options include cash; letter of credit; bond of an approved guarantee company; mining reclamation trust; compliance with a corporate financial test in the prescribed manner; any other form of security or any other guarantee or protection, that is acceptable to the Director
  • United Kingdom – A mutual fund (guarantee scheme) covering several operators where risks are spread and the group offers security. Such a fund could, in theory have a number of conditions attached to its use, and can in effect be called upon solely in the event of financial failure. Parts of the UK
  • extractive industries have a considerable track record in operating this type of fund

Accordingly the CMPA has Management Committee has commenced a project to quantify the differences between Mining Licences and Work Authorities’. This is to be undertaken by someone from the mining area and quotes are presently being sought.

Conduct Crushing Operations Pilot Course

The CMPA would like to extend its appreciation to the those who attended the pilot course for Conduct Crushing Operations, held in March.

Following a few minor alterations, this course will be available across industry.

Failures in Quality

It would be greatly appreciated if Members could provide examples of when failing to maintain quality standards has resulted in damage to the company—be it material quality, service quality, or anything else.

Examples would be utilised as case studies in the Quality unit training materials currently being developed.

Membership Renewals

Please be aware that all CMPA Memberships expire on 30 June with renewal paperwork being released in early June. Prompt renewal would be greatly appreciated.

Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Guidelines

Current DPI guidelines can be downloaded from their website, however you should always check the website for the most current guidelines before using them.

  • Visit: www.dpi.vic.gov.au
  • Click on ‘Minerals & Petroleum’
  • For guidelines relating to ‘Licences and Approvals’:
    • Click ‘Licences and Approvals’
    • Click ‘Extractive Industry Requirements’
  • For guidelines relating to ‘Health and Safety’:
    • Click ‘Health and Safety’
    • Click ‘Extractive Guidance Notes’
  • For guidelines relating to ‘Environment’:
    • Click ‘Environment’
    • Click ‘Guidelines’

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