At the end of SOMR’s 12th year, the group is as committed as ever to protect the Macleay River catchment. Many issues need continuing attention, new issues and new approaches to finding solutions are arising. For more details on the issues click here https://saveourmacleayriver.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Update-December-2024-.pdf
In summary they are:
Hillgrove Gold and Antimony Mine
Hillgrove Mine owners Larvotto are reporting positive test results for gold and antimony explorations. Production as not yet re-commenced.
The company has been accepted into the Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC). Antimony produced from the project could support US defense applications, including ammunition and nuclear weapons.
Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro Scheme
In mid 2024, the NSW Department of Planning Housing and Infrastructure (DPIE) published the Submissions Report. While waiting for the decision by the Minister for Planning Paul Scully, Alinta has announced the selection of two construction companies.
South Kempsey Battery Energy Storage
Recently, a proposal for a large-scale battery storage facility on approximately 5 ha of a private property in South Kempsey was made public. This State Significant Project with a capacity to supply up to 200 megawatts (MW) over a duration of 4 hours (800 MW-hours) is 100Mw less than the Oven Mountain Pumped Hydro proposal and will be located close to the Kempsey substation.
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from ecologyofperception.blogspot
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Gravel extraction in the riverbed
After several years of local residents monitoring gravel extraction in the riverbed and letter writing to authorities, it looks like the relevant regulations will finally be held up again.
Growing water use in the Upper Catchment and Water Sharing Plan
With a submission, SOMR to contributed to the NSW Water Sharing Plan RevieWater sharing plans are legally binding plans made under the Water Management Act 2000, setting rules for sharing water for social, economic and agricultural use, cultural use and the environment.
Water Test Kit
SOMR successfully applied for a small KSC community grant to buy a new Water Test Kit. As soon as a new kit can be purchased, test requested by residents will be carried out.
Events held in 2024
During the year, SOMR members and the public were treated to some very interesting talks and presentations, such as
- the results of long term water testing by Professor Johnson,
- the legal Rights of the River by Dr Michelle Maloney, and not least
- the Macleay River Estuary Management by John Schmidt
You are invited to get involved and become a SOMR member. You will receive the informative minutes and invitations to special talks and you can participate in all meetings.