Opal miners dig into review report
Early reactions to the recommendations of the Independent Review into Small-Scale Opal Mining Titles have been quite critical, although some miners acknowledge there are some constructive ideas amongst the 81 recommendations in the final report.
Some miners are saying that the report lacks understanding of the reality of life on the opal fields, and others say they would like to see some recommendations changed or dropped altogether.
However, most miners are reserving their judgement until they have had time to absorb the large report and discuss its recommendations with fellow miners.
Hard copies of the reports are available where they matter most – on the local opal fields.
Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos commissioned the Independent Review following a departmental review of administrative processes which uncovered 3,343 minerals claims in Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs impacted by invalid decisions.
Almost 370 written submissions were considered by Independent Reviewer, Terry Sheahan who has released recommendations for the Small-Scale Titles Review.
This covers a range of topics crucial to the industry’s operation including land access, rehabilitation, landholder compensation and modernising the framework.
The author of the review – Terry Sheahan believes the combination of measures recommended will result in a more professional, safe, and environmentally responsible industry that will continue to underpin the ongoing viability of the communities of White Cliffs, Lightning Ridge, Grawin and Glengarry. […]
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