Earth Resources Regulation (ERR)
From the entire team here at Earth Resources Regulation (ERR), I extend my congratulations to CMPA for the 100th issue of Sand & Stone magazine.
While it’s true that the magazine has made a significant contribution to the quarrying industry, the work of the CMPA goes much further. We are proud to have contributed to the Association’s
development of guidance and training courses for the industry, including sessions on blasting and stability in recent years.
Since the magazine launched, the industry has evolved into a modern, thriving contributor to the Victorian economy, providing great benefit to industry and employment opportunities for many.
Over the past ten years, our inspectors have noted significant improvements throughout the industry. Operators have become increasingly aware of their environmental obligations and we’ve
seen a considerable increase in quarry rehabilitation, especially to higher value land uses in urban areas. In response to growing interest from local communities around the impacts of quarrying
there has been a demonstrable increase in constructive engagement with neighbours and other impacted stakeholders. Newer and better equipment has been installed in quarries, leading to improved controls.
One noticeable example is the use of plate presses instead of slime dams. Operators have also gained extra value by finding commercial uses for lower grade quarry materials.
While we can celebrate the achievements of the past ten years, we must constantly evolve and improve to meet the challenges of the future.
Demand for quarry materials in Victoria continues to increase to meet the demands and expectations of our growing population. ERR recognises that community expectations around environment and liveability are also changing.
With this in mind, we are making it clearer and quicker for you to seek approval to produce quarry resources, as we roll out our New Approach to Earth Resources Regulation. We recognise that every dollar counts. With your help, we are building a better regulatory system. Our focus is on outcomes: minimising costs to businesses, as well as meeting community expectations.
The Sand & Stone magazine provides a valuable forum for raising and addressing issues through the sharing of new technologies and approaches. We will continue to work with the CMPA – and you as quarry operators – as we move towards a more modern and responsive regulatory system.
Further detail about our new approach is available on the Earth Resources website:
We look forward to sharing the journey with you, towards an improved environment and towards another 100 issues of Sand & Stone.
Anthony Hurst
Earth Resources Regulation
Fulton Hogan, Tynong Quarry
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