VLPA Update (Issue 53)

PETER MCCLUSKY provides an update on the Victorian Limestone Producers Association.

THE MRSDA (Act for mines and quarries) is being revised along with regulations with a view to implementation in 2012; along with other kindred associations we are involved in the consultation phase.

One potentially useful proposal is to introduce a Retention Licence (RL) whereby a mineral resource that has been identified but is not yet economic to mine can be reserved for a period via an RL. This could be useful where a resource is identified adjoining current operations.

The Murray Darling Basin proposed plan is a concern to a whole range of agribusiness industries. It currently proposes to cut water for irrigation by around 30% to an area of Australia which the Murray Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) says produces 40% of Australia’s agricultural output.

The MDBA proposes to increase water for the environment by up to around 40%. This is under the guise of the Water Act 2007 which gives priority to water for the environment ahead of economic and social considerations.

Likely reductions in farming land due to water rights disappearing are a concern both to our industry and for national food security. Hence there is growing feeling in agribusiness circles that the Water Act needs amending to give adequate balance between economic, social and environmental considerations. This matter will require our continued attention along with other kindred bodies as the issue develops.

A successful Annual General Meeting and Conference of the VLPA was held at the Waltzing Matilda Hotel/Motel in South Springvale on 16 November 2010. A highlight of the event was a site visit to the nearby national laboratory of one of the member companies where members were able to inspect state of the art equipment and product testing processes. Further information on the event will be in the next issue of Sand & Stone.

For further information contact Peter McCluskey 0408 496 588

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