Background
SGME was engaged to facilitate discussion with the government, prepare an environmental authority (EA) amendment application and a develop a progressive
rehabilitation and closure plan (PRC plan). The historic open-cut coal mining operation is located approximately 240 kilometres south-west of Mackay and 17 kilometres north-west of Clermont in Central Queensland.
Objective
A detailed review identified information gaps and practices that do not align with
sections 126C and 126D of the Environmental Protection Act 1994.
Solution
SGME provided comprehensive services to prepare an EA amendment application and develop a PRC plan. We compiled necessary information to facilitate discussions with the government that addressed the absence of land outcome documents. We also highlighted that the current EA does not include landform outcomes or milestone criteria required for pre-lodgement and development of the PRC plan. This was resolved by developing land outcome documents, identifying rehabilitation areas, setting milestones, assessing hydrogeology, modelling floodplains and detailing soil management and landform design.
SGME prepared the PRC plan including baseline information, project description, closure design, rehabilitation planning, community consultation, rehabilitation risk assessment and milestones to achieve nominated post-mining land uses and non-use management areas. Ultimately, the PRC plan described how disturbance will be reshaped and restored while enabling cost-effective retrieval of remnant coal resources.
SGME compiled a robust supporting document for the EA amendment application including new EA conditions that incorporate landform outcomes and milestone criteria based on the residual void water balance and standard conditions. This document included the revised water balance model outcomes, determination of non-use management areas, justifications for new EA conditions, updated maps and figures, and other required materials.
These services highlight SGME’s dedication to compliance and preparing effective EA amendment applications for our clients, and underscore our commitment to the environment and regulatory requirements. SGME consistently demonstrates exemplary proficiency in preparing environmental approval, management and planning documents for the mining industry, showcasing meticulous attention to detail, comprehensive data analysis, and a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance. Our ability to succinctly encapsulate complex environmental processes into clear and compelling reports drives transparency and underscores our unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable land management practices.