Data as at 14 September 2026 · from the Queensland EP Act public register
EPML00347913 · Mine Domain
Minerals environmental authority EPML00347913 (Mine Domain), Granted. 221 conditions indexed. No PRC plan.
- Status
- Granted
- Holders
- ACN 128 020 888 PTY LTD
- Tenures
- ML90197; ML90221; ML90222; ML90223; ML90224; ML90225; ML90226; ML90227
- PRC plan
- None
- How it was read
- Numbered conditions
- Register
- Register record · Instrument PDF
Conditions
221 numbered conditions read from the current instrument. Page numbers link into the register PDF.
- A1
This environmental authority authorises environmental harm referred to in the conditions. Where there is no condition or this environmental authority is silent on a matter, the lack of a condition or silence does not authorise environmental harm.
- A2
The authorised mine domains and identified areas associated with each domain are shown in Schedule A -- Table 1 (Authorised Mining Activities) and Schedule J - Figure 1 Infrastructure Layout - Mine Area. The domains must not exceed the maximum disturbance areas listed in Schedule A -- Table 1 (Authorised Mining Activities). Mining activities which will result in land becoming significantly disturbed must only occur within the mine domains identified Schedule A -- Table 1 (Authorised Mining Activities). Schedule A -- Table 1 (Authorised Mining Activities) Mine Domain Mine Feature Name Location Northing Maximum (GDA94 Zone 54) Disturbance Easting 7816103 Area (hectares) (GDA94 Zone 54) 300002 7816394 405 7816633 Northern Pit 300596 7816648 703 300649 7815991 Mining Areas 302007 7815993 139 302009 7814326 149 Central Pit 302730 7814320 302737 7815278 Southern Pit 301124 7813381 299997 7811678 Tailings 301058 7810199 300433 7810199 300482 7812126 298979 7812769 298979 7815296 297973 7815278 298858 7812769 299997 7812126 297973 7810199 298979 7809399 298979 7810108 298906 7813381 297051 301058 Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Location Maximum Disturbance Mine Domain Mine Feature Name Easting Northing Area (hectares) Raw Water (GDA94 Zone 54) (GDA94 Zone 54) 7813399 222 Tailings Storage Facility 302512 7812732 with Decant Water Dam 302712 7811841 138 and pipelines 302646 7811460 7813381 76 301918 7811460 96 7811004 15 301058 7809702 41 7808011 301918 7808109 302164 Water Supply Dam and 301096
- A3
Access to the licensed place via land authorised for that purpose by the Mineral Resources Act 1989 is subject to the conditions of this environmental authority. Maintenance of Measures, Plant and Equipment
- A4
The holder of this environmental authority must: a) install all measures, plant and equipment necessary to ensure compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority; b) maintain such measures, plant and equipment in a proper and efficient condition; and c) operate such measures, plant and equipment in a proper and efficient manner.
- A5
No change, replacement or alteration of any plant or equipment is permitted if the change, replacement or alteration increases, or is likely to increase, the risk of unlawful environmental harm. Monitoring and Reporting
- A6
Except where specified otherwise in another condition of this authority, all monitoring records or reports required by this environmental authority must be kept for a period of not less than five (5) years.
- A7
Upon request from the administering authority, copies of monitoring records and reports must be made available and/or provided to the administering authority's nominated office within ten (10) business days or by an alternative timeframe agreed between the administering authority and the holder,
- A8
Any management or monitoring plans, systems or programs required to be developed and implemented by a condition of this environmental authority must be reviewed for effectiveness in minimising the likelihood of environmental harm on an annual basis, and amended promptly if required, unless a particular review date Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 and amendment program is specified in the plan, system or program. The review must be documented and completed by an appropriately qualified person.
- A9
All monitoring referred to in this environmental authority must be undertaken by an appropriately qualified person using monitoring equipment that is accurately calibrated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
- A10
All analyses and tests required to be conducted under this environmental authority must be carried out by a laboratory that has NATA accreditation for such analyses and tests, except as otherwise authorised by the administering authority.
- A11
The holder of this environmental authority must make reasonable efforts to provide safe and all-weather access to all monitoring locations required under this environmental authority. This must include providing the necessary site infrastructure required to gain safe all-weather access to monitoring locations during reasonably foreseeable events. The holder of this environmental authority must also develop and implement contingency plans to facilitate sampling during extreme events where provision of site infrastructure is not practical. Financial Assurance
- A12
Provide to the administering authority financial assurance for the amount and in the form acceptable to the administering authority in accordance with the most recent edition of the administering authority's guideline for calculating financial assurance for mining projects, before the proposed mining activities can commence or be varied.
- A13
The amount of financial assurance may be reviewed by the administering authority at any time including when the plan of operations is amended or replaced, the environmental authority is amended, or new information is obtained from an audit or other sources.
- A14
The financial assurance must remain in force until the administering authority is satisfied that no claim on the financial assurance will be made.
- A15
Financial assurance must be lodged in accordance with condition A13 and A14 within twenty (20) business days from the date on the letter of advice issued to the environmental authority holder identifying that additional financial assurance is required Risk Management
- A16
The holder of this environmental authority must develop and implement a risk management system for mining activities which reflects the content requirement of the Standard for Risk Management (IS031000:2009), or the latest edition of an Australian Standard for risk management, to the extent relevant to environmental management, prior to commencement of mining activities. Emergency Response I Contingency
- A17
Prior to commencement of mining activities, the holder of this environmental authority must develop and implement an emergency response/contingency plan to respond to any emergency event or incident.
- A18
The emergency response/contingency plan required under condition A17 must address the following matters as a minimum: a) response procedures to be implemented to prevent or minimise the risk of environmental harm arising from any emergency event or incident; b) response procedures to minimise the extent and duration of environmental harm caused by any emergency event or incident; Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 c) the practices and procedures to be employed to restore the environment or mitigate any environmental harm caused by any emergency event or incident; d) the resources to be used in response to any emergency event or incident; e) procedures to investigate the cause of any emergency event or incident and where necessary, implement remedial actions to reduce the likelihood of recurrence of similar emergency event or incident; f) the provision and availability of documented procedures to staff attending any emergency event or incident to enable them to effectively respond; g) training of staff that will be called upon to respond to any emergency event or incident to enable them to effectively respond; h) timely and accurate reporting of the circumstance and nature of any emergency event or incident to the administering authority in accordance with conditions of this environmental authority; i) procedures for accessing monitoring points during any emergency event or incident; and j) procedures to notify any potentially impacted stakeholder who may be affected by the emergency event or incident. Notification of Incidents, Exceedances and Releases
- A19
The holder of this environmental authority must notify the administering authority by telephone and email as soon as practicable but within twenty-four (24) hours, after becoming aware of any incident, exceedance, or release of contaminants not in accordance, or reasonably expected to be not in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- A20
The notification in condition A19 must include, but not be limited to, the following: a) the environmental authority number and name of the holder of this environmental authority; b) the name and telephone number of the designated contact person; c) the location of the incident, exceedance or release; d) the date and time of the incident, exceedance or release; e) the time the holder of this environmental authority became aware of the incident, release or exceedance; f) where known; i) the estimated quantity and type of substances involved in the incident, exceedance or release; ii) the actual or potential cause of the incident, release or exceedance; and iii) a description of the nature and effects of the incident, exceedance or release including environmental risks and any risks to public health or livestock. g) any sampling conducted or proposed, relevant to the incident, exceedance or release; h) immediate actions taken to prevent or mitigate any further environmental harm caused by the incident exceedance or release; and i) what notification of stakeholders who may be affected by the incident, exceedance or release has occurred and/or is being undertaken.
- A21
The holder of this environmental authority must notify the occupiers or registered owners of affected land and any other potentially impacted stakeholder as soon as reasonably practicable after becoming aware of any incident, exceedance or release that has the potential to impact on environmental values or breaches any condition of this environmental authority concerning releases of contaminants to the environment
- A22
The notification in condition A21 must include the following: Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 a) the location of the incident, exceedance or release; b) the date and time of the incident, exceedance or release; c) the estimated quantity and type of any substances involved in the incident, exceedance or release; d) the potential impacts to environmental values caused by the incident, exceedance or release; and e) where there is potential impact on livestock or human health, precautionary measures that will be taken.
- A23
Within ten (10) business days following the initial notification of an incident, exceedance or release, or receipt of monitoring results, whichever is the latter, further written advice must be provided to the administering authority, including the following: a) results and interpretation by an appropriately qualified person of any samples taken and analysed; b) outcomes of actions taken at the time of the incident, release or exceedance to prevent or minimise unlawful environmental harm; and c) outcomes of actions to prevent a recurrence of the incident, exceedance or release. Complaints
- A24
The holder of this environmental authority must record all environmental complaints received about the mining activity including the following details: a) name, address and contact number for complainant; b) time and date of complaint; c) reasons for the complaint; d) investigations undertaken; e) conclusions formed; f) actions taken to resolve complaint; g) any abatement measures implemented; and h) person responsible for resolving the complaint
- A25
When requested by the administering authority, the holder of this environmental authority must undertake relevant specified monitoring within the timeframe nominated by the administering authority to investigate any complaint of environmental harm. The results of the investigation (including an analysis and interpretation of the monitoring results by an appropriately qualified person) and abatement measures implemented must be provided to the administering authority within ten (10) business days of completion of the investigation or no later than ten (10) business days after the end of the timeframe nominated by the administering authority to undertake the investigation. Light
- A26
In the event of a complaint about light emissions from any mining activity that, in the opinion of an authorised officer is causing an environmental nuisance at a sensitive place, the administering authority may request the holder of this environmental authority to take appropriate action to mitigate the nuisance and take appropriate action (e.g., by screening or directing the light away from the sensitive place) within a time set by the administering authority. Community
- A27
The holder of this environmental authority must establish, promote and maintain easily accessible lines of communication between residents, stakeholders (including the Kalkadoon People) and landowners, Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 reasonably expected to be affected by the mining activity to ensure that environmental impacts and social and cultural heritage impacts are identified and managed. This must include but not be limited to the following: a) regular meetings with all residents, stakeholders and landowners, at intervals of not more than six (6) months; and b) the establishment of a consultative committee with representation open for all residents, stakeholders and landowners, that meets at regular intervals as determined by the committee. Third Party Auditing
- A28
Compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority must be audited by a suitably qualified third- party auditor, nominated by the holder of this environmental authority and accepted by the administering authority within one year of the commencement of mining activities and then at regular intervals not exceeding every second year.
- A29
The third-party auditor must certify the independent findings of the audit in the report.
- A30
The financial cost of the third-party audit is the responsibility of the holder of this environmental authority.
- A31
The holder of this environmental authority must immediately act upon any recommendations arising from the audit by: a) investigating any non-compliance issues identified; and b) implementing measures or taking necessary action to ensure compliance with the requirements of this environmental authority.
- A32
Within two (2) months of completing the audit, the holder of this environmental authority must provide a copy of the audit report and a written report to the administering authority addressing the: a) actions taken to ensure compliance with this environmental authority; and b) actions taken to prevent the recurrence of any non-compliance issues identified. Exploration
- A33
All exploration activities carried out at the licensed place must comply with each of the Standard Environmental Conditions contained in the most recent version of the Code of Environmental Compliance for exploration and mineral development projects.
- A34
Disturbance due to exploration activities in areas not scheduled to be mined within twelve (12) months must be rehabilitated in accordance with the provisions detailed in the administering authority's Code of Environmental Compliance for Exploration and Mineral Development Projects.
- A35
Where a condition of this environmental authority refers to a matter addressed in the Code of Environmental Compliance for Exploration and Mineral Development Projects, the condition of this environmental authority prevails. Abrasive Blasting
- A36
All abrasive blasting and metal surface coating must be carried out inside buildings to contain spent blasting media and other material within the building.
- A37
Where abrasive blasting cannot be carried out inside buildings due to large equipment, open air abrasive blasting and metal surface coating activities must be carried out using temporary shrouding, screens, sheeting or other methods to prevent the release of contaminants that may cause environmental harm. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Transition to New Standards
- A38
Where a condition of this environmental authority requires compliance with a standard, guideline or relevant legislation published externally to this environmental authority and the standard, guideline or relevant legislation is amended or changed subsequent to the issues of this environmental authority the holder of this environmental authority, unless otherwise agreed to by the administrating authority, must: a) comply with the amended or changed standard, guideline or relevant legislation within twelve (12) months of the amendment or change being made, unless a different period is specified in the amended standard, guideline or relevant legislation; and b) continue to remain in compliance with the previous standard, guideline or relevant legislation until compliance with the amended or changed standard or guideline is achieved. Regard for Comment
- A39
Where comments are provided by the administering authority with respect to any plans, systems or programs required to be developed by a condition of this environmental authority then the holder of this environmental authority must have due regard to these comments. END OF CONDITIONS FOR SCHEDULE A Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Schedule B - Air General
- B1
Unless authorised by this environmental authority, the release of noxious or offensive odour, dust or any other airborne contaminant resulting from the mining activity must not cause environmental harm. Bulk Material Handling Management
- B2
The holder of this environmental authority must ensure that vehicles used for transporting bulk materials on or from the licensed place, have appropriate load preparation to prevent the spillage and/or loss of particulate matter and/or windblown dust during transport. Air Quality -- Particulate Matter
- B3
Subject to conditions B4 and B5, the release of particulate matter resulting from the mining activity must not cause an environmental nuisance at any sensitive or commercial place.
- B4
When requested by the administering authority, dust deposition and suspended particulate monitoring must be undertaken within a reasonable and practicable timeframe nominated by the administering authority to investigate any complaint (which is neither frivolous nor vexatious nor based on mistaken belief in the opinion of the authorised person) of environmental nuisance at any sensitive or commercial place, and the results must be notified within fourteen (14) days to the administering authority following completion of monitoring.
- B5
If the environmental authority holder can provide evidence through monitoring that the following limits are not being exceeded, then the holder is not in breach of B1: a) Suspended particulate matter: i) a concentration of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 micrometres (PMIO) suspended in the atmosphere of 50 micrograms per cubic metre over a 24-hour averaging time monitored in accordance with: (a) the most recent version of Australian Standard AS3580.9.6 Determination of suspended particulate matter-- PM (sub) 10(/sub) high volume sampler with size selective inlet -- Gravimetric method; or (b) an alternate method of monitoring PMT which complies with the performance specifications detailed in another Australian Standard for PMT and agreed to in writing by the administering authority. ii) a concentration of particulate matter suspended in the atmosphere of 90 micrograms per cubic metre over a one (1) year averaging time, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of AS/NZS3580.9.3:2003 Determination of suspended particulate matter -- Total suspended particulate matter (TSP) -- High volume sampler gravimetric method; iii) a concentration of fluoride suspended in the atmosphere of 2.9 micrograms per cubic metre over a twenty-four (24) hour averaging time, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of AS/NZS3580.9.3:2003 Determination of suspended particulate matter -- Total suspended particulate matter (TSP) -- High volume sampler gravimetric method; b) Dust deposition i) Dust deposition of 120 milligrams per square metre per day, averaged over one month, when monitored in accordance with AS 3580.10.1 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of particulates - Deposited matter - Gravimetric method of 1991 Note: Limits based on Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913
- B6
If monitoring indicates the maximum concentrations in condition B5 have been exceeded at a sensitive place or commercial place as a result of the mining activity, then the holder of this environmental authority must immediately implement dust abatement measures to ensure that dust emissions generated by the mining activity no longer exceed the levels specified in condition B5.
- B7
In the event of monitoring results showing an exceedance of any of the maximum concentrations in condition
- B5
at a sensitive place or commercial place, the holder of this environmental authority must: a) complete an investigation to identify the cause of the exceedance; b) if the investigation shows that the exceedance is not attributable to the mining activity, then no further action is required, and this must be advised to the administering authority; or c) if the investigation shows that the exceedance is attributable to the mining activity provide a written report to the administering authority within one (1) month of the date of the monitoring results showing an exceedance, outlining: i) details of the investigations carried out; ii) details of the environmental impacts observed; and iii) actions taken to prevent environmental harm. Air Quality Monitoring Requirements
- B8
Samples taken for air quality monitoring specified in this environmental authority must be collected and analysed in accordance with the requirements of the administering authority's latest edition of the Air Quality Sampling Manual, or more recent editions or supplements to that document as are published by the administering authority, unless otherwise agreed by the administering authority in writing. Point Source Releases to Air
- B9
Point source emissions released to the atmosphere must only be released from release point/s specified in Schedule B - Table 1 (Point Source Air Emissions) and identified in Schedule J Figure 2 (Authorised Point Source Air Emissions) and must be monitored at the frequencies and for the contaminants specified in Schedule B Table 1 (Point Source Air Emissions).
- B10
The releases from a release point shown in Schedule B - Table 1 (Point Source Air Emissions) must be directed vertically upwards, with no impedance or hindrance. Schedule B -- Table 1 (Point Source Air Emissions) Release point Minimum Minimum exit Contaminant Maximum Frequency of release velocity (m/s) parameter contaminant monitoring height (m) concentration Once every six Total particulate 50 mg/Nm 3 months matter Fabric Filter 3.3 Fluoride particulate 5 mg/Nm3 Dust Collector 12 matter (FFDC) Stack Total heavy 5 mg/Nm3 metals Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 1. The above total heavy metals limit is for the total of the lead, zinc, cadmium, chromium, arsenic, nickel, vanadium, antimony and beryllium and their respective compounds. 2. All determinations of point source emissions to air are from isokinetic samples results. 3. Alt determinations of point source emissions to air are corrected to Standard Temperature & Pressure (273K, 101.3KPa).
- B11
The holder of this environmental authority must conduct and keep records of a monitoring program of the concentrations of contaminants specified in Schedule B - Table 1 (Point Source Air Emissions) released to the atmosphere at the release points and at the frequency specified in Schedule B - Table (Point Source Air Emissions). This program must comply with the following: a) monitoring for the release points specified in Schedule B - Table 1 (Point Source Air Emissions) must comply with the Australian Standard AS 4323.1 - 1995 "Stationary source emissions Method 1: Selection of sampling provisions"; b) all determinations of contaminant releases to the atmosphere must be made in accordance with methods prescribed in the most recent version of the administering authority's Air Quality Sampling Manual. If monitoring requirements for specific contaminants are not described in the Manual, monitoring protocols must be in accordance with a method as approved by New South Wales DEC/EPA, Victorian EPA or United States EPA and agreed to by the administering authority; c) the following determinations must also be made for each monitoring event specified in Schedule B -- Table 1 (Point Source Air Emissions): i) gas velocity and volume flow rate; ii) temperature and pressure; and iii) water vapour. Fabric Filter Dust Collector (FFDC)
- B12
All contaminants arising from the operation of the beneficiation plant's rotary screen, feeding port and belt receiving points must be treated in a Fabric Filter Dust Collector prior to release to the atmosphere at release point identified in Schedule J - Figure 2 (Authorised Point Source Air Emissions).
- B13
A device (e.g., differential pressure sensor) which is capable of detecting filter medium breakthrough must be installed in the outlet of the Fabric Filter Dust Collector.
- B14
An alarm system must warn the operator of the plant of the possibility that filter medium breakthrough has occurred.
- B15
Replacement bags for all Fabric Filter Dust Collectors must be held on site at all times.
- B16
All collected material removed from a fabric filter dust collector must be recycled or removed and disposed of to a facility that can lawfully accept such wastes.
- B17
The Fabric Filter Dust Collectors must have the particulate collection efficiency of not less than 98 per cent. House-keeping Procedure
- B18
A whole of site housekeeping procedure must be developed and implemented which must include, but not be limited to: a) the completion of periodic inspections of the licensed place including all structures, plant, equipment and trafficked surfaces to identify and remove exposed mineral concentrate that may be mobilised by wind, water or equipment movement; and b) an ongoing cleaning and maintenance schedule to minimise any potential release of mineral concentrate and to ensure there is no build-up of mineral concentrates over time in areas where it may be mobilised. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Weather Station
- B19
The holder of this environmental authority must establish and maintain a permanent meteorological station to continuously measure and record wind speed, wind direction, temperature, and daily rainfall volume.
- B20
The permanent meteorological station must be installed in accordance with the latest edition of the Bureau of Meteorology guideline Observation Specifications No.2013.1 -- Guidelines for the positioning and exposure of meteorological instruments and observing facilities.
- B21
The holder of this environmental authority must record, compile, evaluate and keep all monitoring records obtained from the permanent automatic meteorological station. END OF CONDITIONS FOR SCHEDULE B Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Schedule C -- Land General
- C1
Unless authorised by this environmental authority contaminants that will or may cause environmental harm must not be directly or indirectly released to land.
- C2
Any spillage of wastes, contaminants or other materials must be cleaned up promptly. Such spillages must be cleaned up using dry methods that minimise the impact of the release of wastes, contaminants, or materials to land. Topsoil
- C3
Topsoil and subsoils must be stripped and stockpiled ahead of the areas proposed to be disturbed for the mining activity to a depth determined from soil surveys to ensure that useable soil resources are preserved for rehabilitation.
- C4
Topsoil and subsoil stockpiles must be managed to ensure stability and minimise the release of contaminants. Measures must include: a) Vegetating stockpiles; b) Minimising the height of stockpiles; and c) Re-using stockpiles as soon as possible.
- C5
A topsoil and subsoil inventory which identifies the soil requirements for the mining activity and availability of suitable soil on the licensed place must be detailed in the plan of operations. Disturbance to Land
- C6
When carrying out the mining activity the holder of this environmental authority must: a) avoid, minimise or mitigate (in order of preference) any impacts on areas of sensitive vegetation or other areas of ecological value; b) minimise the risk of injury, harm, or entrapment to wildlife and stock; c) minimise disturbance to land that may otherwise result in land degradation; d) prior to carrying out any disturbance activities, make all relevant staff, contractors or agents carrying out those activities, aware of the location of any Category A, B or C Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) and the relevant requirements of this environmental authority; e) if significant disturbance to land is unavoidable, the holder of this environmental authority must clear vegetation in a way which minimises fragmentation; and f) manage cleared vegetation so that it is stockpiled in a manner that facilitates salvage and respreading and does not impede vehicle, stock or wildlife movements.
- C7
In the event of identification of rare or threatened species on the licensed place, a diagrammatic representation of the species occurrence relative to the mining activity together with a management and monitoring strategy for species conservation must be prepared to the satisfaction of the administering authority and submitted with the plan of operations. Rehabilitation Objectives
- C8
Land disturbed by mining must be rehabilitated in accordance with Schedule C -- Table 1 (Paradise South Project Rehabilitation Requirements) and the objectives of the Post Mine Land Use Plan required under condition C13, Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913
- C9
Rehabilitation must commence progressively as soon as areas become available and in accordance with the plan of operations.
- C10
Within six (6) months of the commencement of tailings disposal in the tailings storage facility, the holder of this environmental authority must commence trials to establish suitable capping systems for infrastructure on the licensed place including but not limited to the tailings storage facility and all waste rock dumps.
- C11
Three (3) years after the commencement of tailings disposal in the tailings storage facility and once every two (2) years thereafter, the holder of this environmental authority must submit a report to the administering authority detailing the success and findings from the capping system trials.
- C12
Five (5) years after the commencement of tailings disposal in the tailings storage facility the holder of this environmental authority must submit to the administering authority a report nominating the most appropriate capping system for the tailings storage facility based on the results from trials required by condition C11. Post Mine Land Use Plan
- C13
Within one year of commencing mining activities, the holder of this environmental authority must develop, implement and submit to the administering authority a Post Mine Land Use Plan (PMLUP) and update and resubmit the plan with each subsequent Plan of Operations. The PMLUP must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and include: a) schematic representation of final land form inclusive of drainage features; b) slope designs; c) cover design (not limited to store and release covers); d) drainage design; e) erosion controls; f) description of experimental design for monitoring of analogue and rehabilitated areas inclusive of statistical design; g) proposed revegetation methods inclusive of plant species selection, re-profiling, respreading soil, soil ameliorants/amendments, surface preparation and method of propagation; h) materials balance including available top soil, and low permeability capping material; i) geotechnical, geochemical and hydrological studies; j) chemical, physical and biological properties of soil and water; and k) a rehabilitation monitoring program as required by condition C15. Rehabilitation Monitoring Program
- C14
A rehabilitation monitoring program must be developed and be implemented on commencement of rehabilitation identified in Schedule C -- Table 1 (Paradise South Project Rehabilitation Requirements) by an appropriately qualified person.
- C15
The holder of this environmental authority must conduct rehabilitation monitoring in accordance with the program developed in condition C14 at least once a year including sufficient spatial and temporal replication to enable scientifically justifiable conclusions to be made, as established in the rehabilitation monitoring program.
- C16
Verification of rehabilitation success is to be carried for each domain. Monitoring must be carried out for each domain at a minimum sampling intensity of 1 and must include sufficient replication to enable statistical analysis of results at an acceptable power. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Schedule C -- Table 1 (Paradise South Project Rehabilitation Requirements) Mine Domain Mine Feature Rehabilitation Goal Rehabilitation Indicators Completion Objectives Criteria ROM Pad Processing area Safe to humans and Class 3 -- 4 Low TBA1 TBA1 wildlife, non-polluting, Intensity Grazing Processing Plant stable, able to sustain Native Habitat TBA1 and Conveyor Area the agreed post TBA1 mining land use. TBA1 TBA1 Temporary Coarse TBA1 Reject Stockpile TBA1 Waste Out of Pit Waste Safe to humans and Class 3 -- 4 Low Rock Dumps wildlife, non-polluting, Intensity Grazing / TBA1 stable, able to sustain Native Habitat In-pit Waste Rock the agreed post Dumps mining land use. Ancillary Transmission Line Safe to humans and Class 3 -- 4 Low Infrastructure wildlife, non-polluting, Intensity Grazing / Native Habitat and stable, able to sustain beneficial reuse TBA1 Slurry Pipeline the agreed post mining land use. Accommodation Accommodation Safe to humans and Class 3 -- 4 Low village village wildlife, non-polluting, Intensity Grazing / TBA1 stable, able to sustain Native Habitat Start-up Tailings Tailings Storage the agreed post Storage Facility Facility mining land use. Class 3 -- 4 Low Intensity Grazing / TBA1 Final Voids Decant Water Safe to humans and Native Habitat Dam wildlife, non-polluting, stable, able to sustain Class 3 -- 4 Low Final Voids the agreed post Intensity Grazing / TBA1 mining land use. Native Habitat Safe to humans and Class 3 -- 5 Low wildlife, non-polluting, Intensity Grazing / TBA1 stable, able to sustain Native Habitat the agreed post mining land use Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913
- C17
A Post Closure Management Plan for the licensed place must be lodged prior to commencement of mining activities and implemented for a period of: a) at least thirty (30) years following cessation of the mining activity (excluding rehabilitation) on the licensed place; or b) a shorter period if: i) the licensed place is proven to be geo-technically and geo-chemically stable; and ii) it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the administering authority that no release of contaminants from the licensed place will result in environmental harm.
- C18
The Post Closure Management Plan must include the following elements: a) operation and maintenance of: i) contaminated water collection and reticulation systems; ii) contaminated water treatment systems; iii) the groundwater monitoring network; iv) final cover systems; and v) vegetative cover. b) monitoring of: Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 i) surface water; ii) groundwater; iii) seepage rates; iv) erosion rates; v) the integrity and effectiveness of final cover systems; and vi) the health and resilience of vegetative cover. Infrastructure
- C19
All buildings, structures, mining equipment and plant erected and/or used for the mining activity must be removed from the licensed place prior to surrender, except where agreed to in writing by the administering authority and the landowner. Chemicals and Flammable or Combustible Liquids
- C20
All explosives, hazardous chemicals, corrosive substances, toxic substances, gases, flammable or combustible liquids and dangerous goods must be stored and handled in accordance with the current, relevant Australian Standard where such is applicable.
- C21
Notwithstanding the requirements of any applicable Australian Standard, any liquids stored on licensed place that have the potential to cause environmental harm must be stored and serviced by an effective containment system that is impervious to the materials stored and managed to prevent the release of liquids to waters or land.
- C22
Where no relevant Australian Standard is available, the following must be applied: a) storage tanks must be bunded such that the capacity and construction of the bund is sufficient to contain at least 110% of a single storage tank or 100% of the largest storage tank plus 10% of the second largest storage tank in multiple storage areas; and b) drum storages must be bunded such that the capacity and construction of the bund is sufficient to contain at least 25% of the maximum design storage volume within the bund.
- C23
All containment systems must be designed to minimise rainfall collection within the system. Contaminated Land
- C24
Prior to making an application for surrender or approval for progressive rehabilitation the holder of this environmental authority must undertake a contaminated land assessment / investigation of the relevant areas of the licensed place in accordance with the administering authority's Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Contaminated Land in Queensland. Biodiversity Offsets
- C25
The holder of this environmental authority must provide an offset for impacts on state significant biodiversity values in accordance with the Queensland Biodiversity Offset Policy.
- C26
A Biodiversity Offset Strategy must be developed and submitted to the administering authority prior to carrying out mining activities specified in the Environmental Management Plan titled "Paradise South Environmental Management Plan" dated August 2012. The biodiversity offset strategy must include, at a minimum: a) demonstration that the activity has avoided, then minimised impacts to state significant biodiversity values; b) where there will be impacts to State significant biodiversity values, a detailed description of the values which will be impacted, and the extent of that impact; Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 c) mapping that details the surveyed locations of any state significant biodiversity values at the licensed place; d) results of a flora and fauna assessment of the affected area to determine if the operations will directly impact on any state significant biodiversity values detailed in Appendix 1 of the Queensland Biodiversity Offset Policy; e) the proposed offset delivery mechanism; f) where an offset transfer is proposed, evidence that an offset can be located within the landscape; and g) an ecological equivalence assessment where required by the Queensland Biodiversity Offset Policy.
- C27
Impacts on state significant biodiversity values must not occur until the holder of this environmental authority has provided a legally secured direct land based offset, or entered into a Deed of Agreement with the administering authority for an offset transfer, or provided an offset payment, consistent with the Queensland Biodiversity Offset Policy. END OF CONDITIONS FOR SCHEDULE C Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Schedule D -- Regulated Structures Assessment of Hazard Category
- D1
The hazard category of any structure must be assessed by a suitably qualified and experienced person: a) in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams; and b) in any of the following situations: i) prior to the design and construction of the regulated structure; or ii) prior to any change in its purpose or the nature of its stored contents.
- D2
A hazard assessment report and certification must be prepared for any regulated structure assessed and the report may include a hazard assessment for more than one regulated structure.
- D3
The holder of this environmental authority must, on receipt of a hazard assessment report and certification, provide to the administering authority one paper copy and one electronic copy of the hazard assessment report and certification.
- D4
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who undertook the assessment, in the form set out in the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams.
- D5
The holder of this environmental authority must take reasonable and practical measures so that each regulated structure associated with the mining activity is designed, constructed, operated and maintained in accordance with accepted engineering standards and is fit for the purpose for which it is intended.
- D6
The onus remains at all times on the holder of this environmental authority to determine whether any of the dams on the licensed place are regulated structures, as defined herein, and if so to immediately comply with the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams. Note: A change of status of a dam might occur due to natural incremental increases in storage capacity, the nature of the material stored, or to changed conditions of use of the storage or of downstream activities (whether related to on-site operations or to the downstream environment) -- resulting in an increased risk beyond low hazard, as assessed against the criteria in Table 3 (Contaminant concentrations and minimum dam volumes) in the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams. Design and Construction of a Regulated Structure
- D7
All regulated structures must be designed by, and constructed under the supervision of, a suitably qualified and experienced person in accordance with the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams. Note: Certification of design and construction may be undertaken by different persons. Construction of a regulated structure includes modification of an existing regulated structure.
- D8
Construction of a regulated structure is prohibited unless the holder of this environmental authority has: a) submitted a hazard category assessment report and certification to the administering authority; b) commissioned a suitably qualified and experienced person to prepare a design plan for the regulated structure; and c) received the certification from a suitably qualified and experienced person for the design plan and the associated operating procedures in compliance with the relevant conditions of this environmental authority.
- D9
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who oversees the preparation of the design plan, in the form set out in the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams.
- D10
Regulated structures must: Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 a) be designed and constructed in accordance with and conform to the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams; and b) be designed and constructed with due consideration given to ensuring that the design integrity wilt not be compromised on account of: i) floodwaters from entering the regulated structure from any watercourse or drainage line; and ii) wall failure due to erosion by floodwaters arising from any watercourse or drainage line.
- D11
The design plan for a regulated structure must include, but is not limited to: a) certification that the design plan; i) is in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams, including subsidiary certifications if necessary; and ii) addresses the requirements in condition DI 1 (b) to (h). b) a design report which provides: i) a description of all the documents which constitute the design plan; ii) a statement of: (a) the applicable standards including engineering criteria, industry guidelines, relevant legislation and regulatory documents, relied upon in preparing the design plan; (b) all relevant facts and data used in preparing the design plan, including any efforts made to obtain necessary facts and data, and any limitations or assumptions to facts and data used in preparing the design plan; (c) the hazard category of the regulated structure; and (d) setting out the reasoning of the suitably qualified and experienced person who has certified the design plan, as to how the design plan provides the necessary required performance. iii) documentation of hydrological analyses and estimates required to determine all elements of the design including volumes and flow capacities; iv) detailed criteria for the design, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of the regulated structure, including any assumptions; and v) design, specification and operational rules for any related regulated structures and systems used to prevent failure scenarios; c) drawings showing the lines and dimensions, and locations of built regulated structures and land forms associated with the regulated structure; d) consideration of the interaction of the pit design with the regulated structure design; e) an operational plan that includes: i) normal operating procedures and rules (including clear documentation and definition of process inputs in the Design Storage Allowance (DSA); and ii) contingency and emergency action plans including operating procedures designed to avoid and/or minimise environmental impacts including threats to human life resulting from any overtopping or loss of structural integrity of the regulated structure. f) a plan for the decommissioning and rehabilitation of the regulated structure at the end of its operational life; g) details of reports on investigations and studies done in support of the design plan; and h) any other matter required by the suitably qualified and experienced person. Permit
- D12
Certification by the suitably qualified and experienced person who supervises the construction must be submitted to the administering authority on the completion of construction of the regulated structure, and state that: a) the 'as constructed' drawings and specifications meet the original intent of the design plan for that regulated structure; and b) construction of the regulated structure is in accordance with the design plan.
- D13
Where a regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system and the DSA volume is to be shared across the integrated containment system, the design and operating rules for the system as a whole must be documented in a system design plan that is certified by a suitably qualified and experienced person.
- D14
The system design plan must contain: a) the design plans; b) the `as constructed' plans; c) the operational rules for each individual regulated structure that forms part of the integrated system; d) the standards of serviceability and accessibility of water transfer equipment or regulated structures; and e) the operational rules for the system as a whole. Operation of a Regulated Structure
- D15
Operation of a regulated structure is prohibited unless: a) the holder of this environmental authority has submitted to the administering authority: i) one paper copy and one electronic copy of the design plan and certification of the design plan in accordance with condition D11; ii) set of 'as constructed' drawings and specifications; iii) certification of those `as constructed' drawings and specifications' in accordance with condition D12; and iv) where the regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system for the purpose of sharing the DSA volume across the system, a copy of the certified system design plan in accordance with condition D13 b) the requirements of this environmental authority relating to the construction of the regulated structure have been met; and c) relevant details for the regulated structure have been included in Schedule D - Table 1 (Location of Regulated Structures) and Schedule D - Table 2 (Basic Details of Regulated Structures) of this environmental authority. Schedule D-- Table 1 (Location of Regulated Structures) Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Name of Regulated Structure Easting Northing Mining Lease Decant Water Dam (GDA94- Zone 54) (GDA94- Zone 54) ML90221 301058 7813381 302512 7813399 302712 7812732 Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 302646 7811841 301918 7811460 Production water Dam 301977 7813398 ML90197 300130 7813343 300151 7815002 301959 7814979 Environmental Dam 299461 7813749 ML90197; ML90222 300809 7812710 301050 7811700 301076 7810597
- D16
Each regulated structure must be maintained and operated in a manner that is consistent with the current design plan, the current operational plan, and the associated certified 'as constructed' drawings for the duration of its operational life until decommissioned and rehabilitated.
- D17
The holder of this environmental authority must take reasonable and practicable control measures to prevent harm to persons, livestock or wildlife through the construction and operation of a regulated structure. Reasonable and practicable measures may include, but are not limited to: a) the secure use of fencing, bunding or screening; and b) escape arrangements for trapped livestock and fauna. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Mandatory Reporting Level
- D18
The mandatory reporting level (MRL) must be marked on a regulated structure in such a way that during routine inspections of that regulated structure, it is clearly observable.
- D19
The holder of this environmental authority must, as soon as practical and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware, notify the administering authority when the level of the contents of a regulated structure reaches the MRL.
- D20
The holder of this environmental authority must, immediately on becoming aware that the MRL has been reached, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated structure. Annual Inspection Report
- D21
Each regulated structure must be inspected each calendar year by a suitably qualified and experienced person.
- D22
At each annual inspection, the condition and adequacy of all components of the regulated structure must be assessed: a) against the most recent hazard assessment report and design plan (or system design plan); b) against recommendations contained in previous annual inspection reports; c) against recognised regulated structure safety deficiency indicators; d) for changes in circumstances potentially leading to a change in hazard category; e) for conformance with the conditions of this environmental authority; f) for conformance with the 'as constructed' drawings; g) for the adequacy of the available storage in each regulated structure, based on an actual observation or observations taken after 31 May each year but prior to 1 November of that year, of accumulated sediment, state of the containment barrier and the level of liquids in the regulated structure (or network of linked containment systems); and h) for evidence of conformance with the current operational plan.
- D23
A suitably qualified and experienced person must prepare an annual inspection report containing details of the assessment and include recommended actions to ensure the integrity of the regulated structure.
- D24
The suitably qualified and experienced person who prepared the annual inspection report must certify the report in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams.
- D25
The holder of this environmental authority must: a) upon receipt of the annual inspection report, consider the report and its recommendations and take action to ensure that the regulated structure will safely perform its intended function; and b) within twenty (20) business days of receipt of the annual inspection report, notify the administering authority in writing, of the recommendations of the inspection report and the actions being taken to ensure the integrity of each regulated structure.
- D26
A copy of the annual inspection report must be provided to the administering authority upon request within ten (10) business days. Design Storage Allowance
- D27
On 1 November of each year, storage capacity must be available in each regulated structure (or network of linked containment systems with a shared DSA volume), to meet the DSA volume for the regulated structure (or network of linked containment systems). Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913
- D28
The holder of this environmental authority must, as soon as possible and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware that the regulated structure (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year, notify the administering authority.
- D29
The holder of this environmental authority must, immediately on becoming aware that a regulated structure (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated structure or linked containment systems. Performance Review
- D30
The holder of this environmental authority must assess the performance of each regulated structure or linked containment system over the preceding November to May period based on actual observations of the available storage in each regulated structure or linked containment system taken prior to 1 July of each year.
- D31
The holder of this environmental authority must take action to modify its water management or linked containment system so as to ensure that the regulated structure or linked containment system will perform in accordance with the requirements of this environmental authority, for the subsequent November to May period. Transfer Arrangements
- D32
The holder of this environmental authority must provide a copy of any reports, documentation and certifications prepared under this environmental authority, including but not limited to any Register of Regulated Structures, hazard assessment, design plan and other supporting documentation, to a new holder of this environmental authority and the administering authority on transfer of this environmental authority. Decommissioning and Rehabilitation
- D33
Prior to the cessation of the mining activity, each regulated structure must be decommissioned such that: a) ongoing environmental harm is minimised by the regulated structure by: i) becoming a safe site for humans and animals at the completion of rehabilitation; ii) becoming a stable landform, that no longer contains flowable substances and minimises erosion impacts; iii) not allowing for acid mine drainage; and iv) being approved or authorised under relevant legislation for a beneficial use; or v) being a void authorised by the administering authority to remain after decommissioning. b) the regulated structure is compliant with all other relevant rehabilitation requirements of this environmental authority. Regulated Structures Location and Performance
- D34
Each regulated structure named in Column I, of Schedule D -- Table 1 (Location of Regulated Structures) must be wholly located within the control points noted in columns 2 and 3 of Schedule D Table 1 (Location of Regulated Structures).
- D35
Each regulated structure named in column 1 of Schedule D -- Table 2 (Basic Details of Regulated Structures), must be consistent with the details noted in columns 2 through to and including column 7 of Schedule D -- Table 2 (Basic Details of Regulated Structures).
- D36
Each regulated structure named in column 1 of Schedule D -- Table 1 (Location of Regulate Structures), must meet the hydraulic performance criteria noted in columns 2 through to and including column 4 of Schedule D -- Table 3 (Hydraulic Performance of Regulated Structures). Schedule D-- Table 3 (Hydraulic Performance of Regulated Structures) Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Name of Spillway Capacity Design Storage Mandatory Regulated AEP Allowance Reporting Level Structure AEP AEP Decant Water Dam 10,000 Year ARI 100 year ARI 2 month 100 year ARI 72 hours wet season rainfall duration Production Water 2,000 Year ARI 100 year ARI 2 month 100 year ARI 72 hours Dam wet season rainfall duration Environmental Dam 2,000 Year ARI 100 year ARI 2 month 100 year ARI 72 wet season hours rainfall duration 1. Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams Tailings Disposal
- D37
Upon disposal of tailings into the tailings storage facility, the holder of this environmental authority must inspect the tailings storage facility weekly to identify and register any fauna mortalities. This information will be made available to the administering authority upon request within and forty eight (48) hours of the discovery of any fauna mortalities. Details of mortalities will include but not be limited to: a) animal species of the discovery of any fauna mortality; b) number of animals; c) location; and d) likely cause of death.
- D38
If in the opinion of the administering authority, the mortality rate referred to in condition D37 is unacceptable, the holder of this environmental authority will be required to develop and implement an action plan to reduce the mortality rate and provide the action plan to the administering authority within one (1) month of the plan being required. END OF CONDITIONS FOR SCHEDULE D Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Schedule E -- Waste Management Waste Management Program
- E1
A waste management program must be developed, implemented and maintained for the mining activity at the licensed place. The waste management program must be submitted to the administering authority prior to commencement of mining activities and be included in each subsequent Plan of Operations. The program must include: a) a description of the mining activity that may generate waste; b) waste management control strategies including; i) recording of the types and amounts of wastes generated by the mining activity; ii) segregation of the wastes; iii) storage of the wastes; iv) transport of the wastes; and v) monitoring and reporting matters concerning the waste. c) the hazard characteristics of the wastes generated including disposal procedures for regulated wastes; d) a program for reusing, recycling or disposing of all wastes; e) how the waste will be dealt with in accordance with the waste management hierarchy, including a description of the types and amounts of waste that will be dealt with under each of the waste management practices in the waste and resource management hierarchy (i.e., avoidance, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, disposal); f) procedures for identifying and implementing opportunities to minimise the amount of waste generated, promote efficiency in the use of resources and improve the waste management practices employed; g) procedures for dealing with accidents, spills, and other incidents that may impact on waste management; h) details of any accredited management system employed, or planned to be employed, to deal with the waste; i) how often the performance of the waste management practices will be assessed; j) the indicators or other criteria on which the performance of the waste management practices will be assessed; and k) staff training and induction to the waste management program. Waste Disposal
- E2
All regulated waste (other than waste authorized in condition E3) must be removed from the licensed place to a facility that is lawfully able to accept the waste.
- E3
The only waste that can be disposed of on the licensed place is waste generated on the licensed place and is limited to: a) waste rock; b) tailings; c) tyres; and d) general waste.
- E4
General waste must only be disposed of into the waste disposal trench facility on ML 90197 and identified in Schedule J - Figure 3 (Waste Disposal Trench Facility).
- E5
General waste deposited in the active waste disposal trench must be compacted and covered with a layer of inert material following placement of the waste into the trench.
- E6
Litter control methods must be implemented at the waste disposal trench to ensure wind-blown litter is not released from the waste disposal trench. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913
- E7
The waste disposal trench must be constructed and operated to ensure leachate is not generated including a system of diversion drains or embankments to divert stormwater away from any area where contact with wastes or contaminants may occur.
- E8
A record of the location of trenches used for waste disposal must be maintained.
- E9
Waste must not be burnt. Regulated Waste
- E10
Regulated waste, other than that authorised to be disposed of at the licensed place under this environmental authority, must only be removed and transported from the licensed place by a person who holds a current authority to transport such wastes to a facility that is lawfully able to accept the waste.
- E11
Where regulated waste is removed from the licensed place (other than by a release as permitted under another schedule of this environmental authority) the holder of this environmental authority must ensure that: a) the removal and transport of such wastes, where it constitutes an environmentally relevant activity under the Environmental Protection Regulation 2008, is carried out by a person licensed for carrying out this activity to a facility that is lawfully able to accept the waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1994; and b) records are kept of the following: i) the date, quantity and type of waste removed ii) name of the regulated waste transporters that removed the waste iii) the intended treatment/disposal destination of the waste Note: Records of documents maintained in compliance with a waste tracking system established under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 or any other law for regulated waste will be deemed to satisfy this environmental authority condition.
- E12
Regulated waste generated by the mining activity can be temporarily stored at the licensed place prior to removal provided it is for a period no longer than six (6) months and it is stored in a manner to minimise risk of fire or contamination of land or waters.
- E13
Each container of regulated waste stored awaiting movement from the licensed place must be clearly marked to identify the contents.
- E14
If the holder of this environmental authority becomes aware that a person has removed regulated waste from the licensed place and disposed of the regulated waste in a manner which is not authorised by this environmental authority or improper or unlawful, then the holder of this environmental authority must, as soon as practicable, notify the administering authority of all relevant facts, matters and circumstances known concerning the disposal. Tyre Storage and Disposal
- E15
Tyres stored awaiting disposal or transport for take-back and recycling or waste-to-energy options -- must be stockpiled in volumes less than three (3) metres in height and 200m* in area and at least ten (10) metres from any other tyre storage area.
- E16
Fire prevention measures must be implemented including the removal of all combustible materials, including grass and vegetation, within a ten (10) metre radius of any tyre storage area. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913
- E17
Subject to demonstrating to the administering authority that no other use higher in the waste management hierarchy can be practicably implemented, waste tyres generated from mining activities may be disposed of on site in non-acid forming waste rock dumps. Tailings Disposal
- E18
Tailings must be managed in accordance with procedures contained within the current Plan of Operations. These procedures must include provisions for: a) containment of tailings in accordance with the approved design plan(s); b) the management of seepage and leachates both during operation and post closure; c) the control of fugitive emissions to air; d) a program of progressive sampling and characterisation to identify acid producing potential and metal concentrations of tailings that must include: i) progressive characterisation of all tailings material during disposal for net acid producing potential (NAPP) and the following contaminants: lead, phosphorous, fluoride, cadmium, copper and aluminium. ii) tailings characterisation must be undertaken at a minimum rate of eight (8) regularly spaced samples per 100,000 tonnes of tailings material discharged. This frequency must be reviewed after a period of one (1) year; and iii) geochemical kinetic testing where the acid producing potential of tailings material has not been conclusively determined to indicate oxidation rates, potential reaction products and effectiveness of control strategies. e) management of tailings in order to minimise the potential for environmental harm. Waste Rock
- E19
Non-acid forming waste rock may be used in rehabilitation or the construction of temporary or permanent structures within the operational areas if it is characterised as un-reactive (including material that does not cause acid, neutral or saline mine drainage).
- E20
The holder of this environmental authority must develop, implement and submit to the administering authority a waste rock management plan with the initial plan of operations and update and resubmit the plan with each subsequent plan of operations.
- E21
Waste rock disposal must not occur on the licensed place unless the holder of this environmental authority has submitted to the administering authority a waste rock management plan. The waste rock management plan must be certified by an appropriately qualified person, to ensure the plan has addressed the requirements of this environmental authority in accordance with best practice environmental management.
- E22
The waste rock management plan must include: a) a detailed design of the waste rock dumps; b) characterisation of the waste rock to predict the quality of runoff and seepage generated, including salinity, acidity, alkalinity, dissolved metals, metalloids and non-metallic inorganic substances; c) a program of progressive sampling program to validate pre-mine waste rock characterisation. The waste rock sampling program must include validation of salinity, acid and alkali producing potential and metal concentrations including phosphorous, fluoride and selenium; d) where the acid rock drainage potential / neutral mine drainage potential of waste rock material has not been conclusively determined, geochemical kinetic testing must be conducted to indicate oxidation rates, potential reaction products and effectiveness of control strategies; Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 e) records must be maintained of all waste rock characterisation and disposal including contingency planning for the management of acid rock I neutral mine drainage; f) a materials balance and disposal plan demonstrating how potentially acid forming and acid forming waste rock will be selectively placed and/or encapsulated to minimise the generation of acid mine drainage; g) a materials balance and disposal plan demonstrating how waste rock that has a potential to generate neutral and/or saline mine drainage will be selectively placed and managed to minimise the generation of neutral and/or saline mine drainage; h) how often the performance of the plan will be assessed; i) a rehabilitation strategy which meets the rehabilitation objectives specified in Schedule E of this environmental authority; and j) monitoring or rehabilitation, research and/or trials to verify the requirements and methods for decommissioning and final rehabilitation of the placed materials, including (he prevention and management of acid mine drainage, erosion minimisation and establishment of vegetation cover.
- E23
The waste rock dumps must be designed, constructed and operated to minimise the infiltration of incidental rainfall into the waste rock dump.
- E24
Any seepage from the waste rock dump must be captured and directed to an appropriately engineered and maintained storage authorised to receive seepage in accordance with Schedule D -- Regulated Structures of this environmental authority. Waste Rock Drainage Management
- E25
Subject to the release limits defined in Schedule G - Water of this environmental authority, all reasonable and practicable measures must be implemented to prevent contaminated water being directly or indirectly released or likely to be released as a result of the mining activity to any waters. END OF CONDITIONS FOR SCHEDULE E Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Schedule F - Noise and Vibration General
- F1
Noise or vibration from the mining activity must not cause environmental harm at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- F2
In the event of a complaint made to the administering authority (considered in the opinion of an authorised officer to be neither frivolous or vexatious nor based on mistaken belief) about noise or vibration generated in carrying out the mining activity and the noise or vibration is considered by the administering authority to be unreasonable, the holder of this environmental authority must take action to ensure that it is no longer an unreasonable noise or vibration.
- F3
When requested by the administering authority, noise monitoring and recording must be undertaken within a reasonable timeframe nominated by the administering authority to investigate any complaint of environmental nuisance at any sensitive place or commercial place, and the results must be notified within ten (10) business days to the administering authority following completion of monitoring.
- F4
The noise monitoring and recording required in condition F3 must include the following descriptor characteristics and matters: a) LAN,T where N equals the statistical levels of 1, 10 and 90 and T = 15 mins); b) Background noise Lt > t: c) The level and frequency of occurrence of impulsive or tonal noise and any adjustment and penalties to statistical levels; d) Atmospheric conditions including temperature, relative humidity and wind speed and directions; e) Effects due to any extraneous factors such as traffic noise; f) Location, date and time of monitoring; g) If the complaint concerns low frequency noise, Max LpL N,T: and h) If the complaint concerns low frequency noise, one third octave band measurements in dB(LIN) for centre frequencies in the 10 - 200 Hz range.
- F6
The method of measurement and reporting of noise levels must comply with the most recent edition of the administering authority's Noise Measurement Manual or the most recent version of AS1055 Acoustics -- Description and measurement of environmental noise. Vibration
- F7
Vibration from the mining activity must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- F8
When requested by the administering authority, vibration monitoring must be undertaken within a reasonable and practicable timeframe nominated by the administering authority to investigate any complaint (which is neither frivolous nor vexatious nor based on mistaken belief in the opinion of the authorised officer) of environmental nuisance at any sensitive place, and the results must be notified within ten (10) business days to the administering authority following completion of monitoring.
- F9
The method of measurement and reporting of vibration levels must comply with the most recent edition of the administering authority's guideline Noise and vibration from blasting. END OF CONDITIONS FOR SCHEDULE F Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Schedule G - Water General
- G1
Contaminants that will, or have the potential to cause environmental harm, must not be released directly or indirectly to any waters except as permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority.
- G2
The release of contaminants directly or indirectly to waters must not: a) produce any visible discolouration of receiving waters; or b) produce any slick or other visible or odorous evidence of oil, grease or petrochemicals nor contain visible floating oil, grease, scum, litter or other objectionable matter.
- G3
Releases to waters must be undertaken so as to minimise erosion of the bed and banks of the receiving waters, or cause a material build-up of sediment in such waters. Machinery maintenance, cleaning and spillages
- G4
The maintenance and cleaning of vehicles and any other equipment or plant must not be carried out in areas from which contaminants can be released into any waters, roadside gutter or stormwater drainage system.
- G5
Any spillage of wastes, contaminants or other materials with the potential to result in environmental harm must be cleaned up as quickly as practicable to minimise the potential for release to any stormwater drainage system or receiving waters. Water Quality Sampling & Analysis Protocols
- G6
All determinations of water quality/sample analysis required under a condition of this environmental authority must be: a) performed by an appropriately qualified person; b) made in accordance with methods prescribed in the latest edition of the latest edition of the administering authority's Monitoring and Sampling Manual c) collected from the monitoring locations identified within this environmental authority, within two (2) hours of each other where possible; d) carried out on representative samples; and e) for laboratory determinations, carried out in a laboratory accredited (e.g., NATA) for the method of analysis being used except as otherwise authorised by the administering authority.
- G7
The following information must be recorded in relation to all water monitoring required under the conditions of this environmental authority and submitted to the administering authority in the specified format when requested: a) the date and time when the sample was taken; b) the monitoring point where the sample was taken; c) the measured or estimated daily quantity of the contaminants released from all release points; d) the release flow rate at the time of sampling for each release point; and e) the results of ail monitoring and details of any exceedances of the conditions of this environmental authority. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Stream Flow Monitoring
- G8
The holder of this environmental authority must install, operate and maintain a stream flow gauging station to determine and record stream flows at the locations specified in Schedule G - Table 1 (Stream Flow Monitoring). For the purpose of Schedule G, flow events are determined by data recorded at the relevant gauging stations specified in Schedule G -- Table 1 (Stream Flow Monitoring). Schedule G - Table 1 (Stream Flow Monitoring) Gauging station location Gauging station name Easting Northing Flow (GDA94 - (GDA94 - recording Battle Creek -- above Zone54) Zone54) frequency dam (GS1) Battle Creek spillway 299277 7806993 Daily (GS2) 301840 7811290 Daily Hilary Creek (GS3) 302038 7816868 Daily Battle Creek Dam Water Release
- G9
Natural inflows to Battle Creek Dam are determined by areally adjusting streamflows measured at gauging station GS1. Natural inflows to Battle Creek Dam are released to maintain storage volume of downstream waterholes. Release of waters from Battle Creek Dam, at release point WRP1, identified in Schedule G - Table 2 (Battle Creek Dam Controlled Discharge Point), and at a flow rate commensurate with inflow measured at GS1, must occur within 24 hours: a) for inflows to Battle Creek Dam 2 ML per day, a water volume equivalent to inflow volume must be released from Battle Creek Dam; and b) for inflows to Battle Creek Dam > 2 ML per day, 2 ML per day must be released from Battle Creek Dam. Schedule G - Table 2 (Battle Creek Dam Controlled Discharge Point) Location Contaminant Receiving Relevant Source, Location Waters Gauging Release and Description of Description Station Release Point Point Easting GDA94 Northing (GDA94 GS1 - Zone54) - Zone54) Battle Creek Battle Creek Dam catchment -Sampling Controlled Discharge 301840 point on pipe, where Point (WRP1) 7811290 pipe enters Battle Battle Creek Creek Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913
- G10
Any failure to meet the downstream release from Battle Creek Dam as specified in conditions G8 and G9, must be notified to the administering authority within 24 hours and the EA holder must give the administering authority a plan to return to compliance at the earliest opportunity.
- G11
Mine-affected waters must not be released to Battle Creek Dam or its catchment. Mine-affected Water Release
- G12
Unless otherwise permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority, the release of mine- affected water to receiving waters must only take place in accordance with the maximum release rate for all combined release points for the relevant flow event specified in Schedule G - Table 4 (Mine- affected Water Release During Flow Events) for the release point(s) specified in Schedule G - Table 3 (Mine-affected Water Release Points).
- G13
Unless otherwise permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority, the release of mine- affected water to receiving waters must not exceed the release limits stated Schedule G - Table S (Water Quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases) when measured at the release point(s) specified in Schedule G - Table 3 (Mine-affected Water Release Points). Schedule G - Table 3 (Mine-affected Water Release Points) Release Location Northing (GDA94 Contaminant Receiving Relevant Point - Zone54) Source, Location Waters Gauging Easting GDA94 and Description of Description Station - Zone54) Release Point GS3
- G14
The daily volume of water released from each release point specified in and Schedule G - Table 3 (Mine- affected Water Release Points) must be measured and recorded.
- G15
Where there is a release to waters at the release points specified in Schedule G - Table 3 (Mine- affected Water Release Points), waters must be monitored for each quality characteristic specified in Schedule G - Table S (Water Quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases). For any release, waters must be monitored if it is safe to do so: a) promptly and within twenty-four (24) hours of the commencement of release; b) daily during release for seven (7) days; c) weekly thereafter for one (1) month; and d) monthly for the remainder of the wet season. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Annual Review of Release Limits
- G16
By 1 June each year following commencement of mining activities the holder of this environmental authority must provide the administering authority an update of monitoring data and associated contaminant limits specified in Schedule G of this environmental authority, incorporating monitoring data obtained during the previous twelve (12) months. Notification of Release Event
- G17
The holder of this environmental authority must notify the administering authority of a release event (no later than twelve (12) hours after having commenced releasing water from release points specified in Schedule G - Table 3 (Mine-affected Water Release Points) to the receiving environment. Notification must include the submission of written verification to the administering authority of the following information: a) release commencement date/time; b) expected release cessation date/time; c) release point(s); d) release volume; e) receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; and f) any details (including available data) regarding likely impacts on the receiving water(s).
- G18
The holder of this environmental authority must notify the administering authority within twenty-four (24) hours after cessation of a release as notified under condition G17 and within twenty (20) business days provide the following information in writing: a) release cessation date/time; b) natural flow volume in receiving water; c) volume of water released; d) details regarding the compliance of the release with the conditions of Schedule G in this environmental authority (i.e., contaminant limits, natural flows, discharge volume); e) all in-situ water quality monitoring results; and f) any other matters pertinent to the release. Receiving Waters Monitoring
- G19
For a release of mine-affected water, the holder of this environmental authority must monitor the quality characteristics of the water relevant to the release in accordance with Schedule G - Table S (Water Quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases) at each monitoring point specified in Schedule G - Table 3 (Mine- affected Water Release Points) for the relevant release point.
- G20
If quality characteristics of the release exceed any of the release limits specified in Schedule G - Table 5 (Release Limits for Controlled Releases) during a release of mine-affected water (RP1, RP2), the environmental authority holder must compare the downstream results at monitoring points specified in Schedule G - Table 6 (Reference monitoring and downstream monitoring points), to the Water Quality Objectives (Low Flow) specified in Schedule G - Table S (Water Quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases) and: a) where the Water Quality Objectives (Low Flow) specified in Schedule G - Table S (Water Quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases are not exceeded then no action is to be taken; or Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 b) where the downstream results exceed the Water Quality Objectives (Low Flow) specified in Schedule G - Table S (Water Quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases) for any quality characteristic, compare the results of the downstream site to the data from background monitoring sites and; i) if the downstream result is less than the background monitoring site data, then no action is to be taken; ii) if the result is greater than the background monitoring site data, complete an investigation into the potential for environmental harm and provide a written report to the administering authority within 3 months, outlining: (a) details of the investigations carried out; and (b) actions taken to prevent environmental harm. Schedule G - Table 6 (Reference monitoring and downstream monitoring points) Location Monitoring Release Monitoring point location and description point point Easting GDA94 - Northing (GDA94 - Zone54) Zone54) Reference Sites
- G21
Water storages stated in Schedule G - Table 7 (Onsite Water Storage Monitoring Locations and Frequency) of this environmental authority must be monitored on a regular basis, but at least quarterly for the water quality characteristics specified in Schedule G - Table 8 (Onsite Water Storage Limits).
- G22
In the event that water in storages defined in in Schedule G - Table 7 (Onsite Water Storage Monitoring Locations and Frequency) exceed the contaminant limits defined in Schedule G -- Table 8 (Onsite Water Storage Limits), the holder of this environmental authority must implement measures to prevent access to waters by livestock and minimise access by native fauna. Schedule G - Table 7 (Onsite Water Storage Monitoring Locations and Frequency) Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Location Water Storage Easting GDA94 Northing (GDA94 - Monitoring Frequency of Description - Zone54) Zone54) Location Monitoring Decant Water Dam 302120 7811600 Quarterly Production Water Dam 301370 7814120 Spillway Environmental Dam 300520 7811870 Schedule G - Table 8 (Onsite Water Storage Limits) Quality Characteristic Test Value Stock Exclusion Limit3 pH (pH unit) Range Less than 4, greater than 92 EC (-S/cm) Maximum 59701 10001 Sulphate (mg/L) Maximum 21 51 Fluoride (mg/L) Maximum 0.51 0.011 Aluminium (mg/L) Maximum 11 21 Arsenic (mg/L) Maximum 0.11 11 Cadmium (mg/L) Maximum 201 Fluoride (mg/L) Maximum Lead (mg/L) Maximum Nickel (mg/L Maximum Zinc (mg/L) Maximum Note: 1. Contaminant limit based on ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) stock water quality guidelines. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 2. Page 4.2-15 of ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) "Soil and animal health will not generally be affected by water with pH in the range 4-9". 3. Total concentrations (unfiltered) must be taken and analysed.
- G23
With the written agreement of the receiving party, mine-affected water may be piped or trucked or transferred by some other means that does not contravene the conditions of this environmental authority and deposited into artificial water storage structures for the purpose of supplying water to Paradise North Mine, D Tree Mine, Lady Annie Mine and Lady Loretta Mine, or used directly at properties owned by the environmental authority holder, or a third party for the purpose of: a) supplying stock water, subject to compliance with the quality release limits specified in Schedule G - Table 8 (Onsite Water Storage Limits); b) supplying irrigation water, subject to compliance with quality release limits for irrigation in ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000); or c) supplying water for construction and/or road maintenance in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- G24
If the responsibility for mine affected water is given or transferred to another person in accordance with conditions G23: a) the responsibility for the mine-affected water must only be given or transferred in accordance with a written agreement (the third-party agreement); and b) the third-party agreement must include a commitment from the person utilising the mine- affected water to use it in such a way as to prevent environmental harm Stream Sediment
- G25
Sediment quality of receiving waters and reference waters must be monitored twice a year (once at the end of the wet season and once at the end of the dry season) at the monitoring locations defined in Schedule G - Table 6 (Reference monitoring and downstream monitoring points) and identified on Schedule J -- Figure S (Stream Monitoring Locations) and for the parameters defined in Schedule G -- Table 9 (Stream Sediment Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits). Schedule G - Table 9 (Stream Sediment Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits) Parameter1 Trigger Level Contaminant Limit Aluminium Reference2 3 times the reference2 Antimony Arsenic5 (mg/kg) Reference2 3 times the reference2 Barium 203 or reference2, 704 or 3 times the Cadmium (mg/kg) whichever ishigher. reference2, whichever is Reference2 higher 3 times the reference2 1.53 or reference2, whichever ishigher. 104 or 3 times the reference2, whichever is Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Chromium 803 or reference2, whichever is higher Copper (mg/kg) higher. Iron 3704 or 3 times the Lead (mg/kg) 653 or reference2, whichever is reference2 Mercury higher. 2704 or 3 times the Manganese reference2, whichever is Nickel (mg/kg) Reference2 higher Selenium 3 times the reference2 Silver (mg/kg) 503 or reference2, Zinc (mg/kg) whichever ishigher. 2204 or 3 times the Vanadium reference2, whichever is Calcium (mg/kg) 0.153 or reference2, higher Magnesium (mg/kg) whichever ishigher. 14 or 3 times the Particle size distribution Reference2 reference2 3 times the reference2 213 or reference2, whichever ishigher. 524 or 3 times the reference2, whichever is Reference2 higher. 3 times the reference2 13 or reference2, whichever is higher. 3.74 or 3 times the reference2, whichever is 2003 or reference2, higher whichever ishigher. 4104 or 3 times the reference2 whichever is Reference2 higher 3 times the reference2 Reference2 3 times the reference2,3 Reference 2 3 times the reference2,3 For interpretation purposes
- G26
Releases of contaminants must not result in an exceedance of sediment contaminant limits stated in Schedule G -- Table 9 (Stream Sediment Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits).
- G27
If quality characteristics of the sediments exceed any of the trigger levels specified in Schedule G - Table 9 (Stream Sediment Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits), the holder of this environmental authority must compare the results of the downstream site to the data from reference monitoring sites and: a) if the level of contaminants at the downstream site does not exceed the reference monitoring site data, then no action is to be taken; or b) if the level of contaminants at the downstream site is greater than the reference monitoring site data, complete an investigation in accordance with the ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) methodology, into the potential for environmental harm and provide a written report to the administering authority within three (3) months, outlining: i) details of the investigations carried out; ii) details of the environmental impacts observed; and iii) actions taken to prevent environmental harm. Note: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated, in accordance with clause (b) of this condition, then no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic within the three (3) month investigation period.
- G28
All stream sediment sampling must be undertaken in accordance with the most recent version of Australian Standard AS 5667.12 Guidance or Sampling of Bottom Sediments. Receiving Environment Monitoring Program
- G29
A Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) as presented in the Paradise South Environmental Management Plan dated August 2012 must be implemented prior to commencement of mining activities.
- G30
The REMP will monitor and record the effects of the release of contaminants on the receiving environment periodically and whilst contaminants are being released from the licensed place. The aim of the REMP is to monitor any changes in the receiving water (including groundwater) and identify water quality indicators that may be indicative of increased risk to local environmental values. A copy of the REMP and any update or variation of the REMP must be provided to the administering authority prior to its implementation. Note: For the purposes of the REMP, the receiving environment is the waters of Battle Creek, Hilary Creek and connected waterways within 5 kilometres downstream of the mine and the release points specified in Schedule G - Table 3 (Mine-affected Water Release Points).
- G31
The REMP must address (but not necessarily be limited to) the following: a) description of potentially affected receiving waters including key communities and background water quality characteristics based on accurate and reliable monitoring data that takes into consideration any temporal variation (e.g., seasonality); b) description of applicable environmental values and water quality objectives to be achieved (i.e., as scheduled pursuant to the Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 2009); c) any relevant reports prepared by other governmental or professional research organisations that relate to the receiving environment to which the REMP applies; d) water quality and sediment quality targets within the receiving environment to be achieved, and clarification of contaminant concentrations or level indicating adverse environmental impacts during the REMP; e) monitoring for any potential adverse environmental impacts caused by a release; f) monitoring for any potential adverse environmental impacts caused by direct and indirect releaseof contaminants from the tailings storage facility to surface waters, including: Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 i) monitoring of surface water quality at potentially impacted locations downstreamand/or down gradient of the tailings storage facility; ii) monitoring of stream sediment quality at least twice a year (once at the end of the wetseason and once at the end of the dry season) downstream of the tailings storage facility; iii) monitoring of stream flows downstream of the tailings storage facility; iv) determination of an appropriate monitoring frequency for surface waters downstreamof the tailings storage facility that provides representative results and allows for earlydetection of any contaminant releases; v) development of appropriate water quality and stream sediment reference data set which complies with ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) methodology; g) monitoring to determine site specific stream sediment quality reference data for the parameters specified in Schedule G - Table 9 (Stream Sediment Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits); h) monitoring of stream flow and hydrology; i) monitoring of toxicants should consider the indicators specified in Schedule G - Table S (Water quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases) to assess the extent of the compliance of concentrations with Water Quality Objectives and the ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) guidelines for slightly to moderately disturbed ecosystems; j) monitoring as a minimum the parameters specified in Schedule G - Table S (Water Quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases) (in addition to dissolved oxygen saturation and temperature); k) monitoring of the impact of the mass load of nutrients in the receiving environment as a result of release from the STP Dam; l) monitoring in permanent and semi-permanent water bodies will be conducted for: i) water quality, in accordance with the latest edition of the administering authority's Monitoring and Sampling Manual; ii) metals/metalloids in sediments, in accordance with ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000), Handbook for Sediment Quality Assessment (CSIRO, 2005) and/or the most recent
- G32
A report outlining the findings of the REMP, including all monitoring results and interpretations in accordance with condition G31 must be prepared and submitted in writing to the administering authority within one year following the commencement of mining activities, thereafter once every twelve (12) months. The report must include an assessment of baseline water quality, any assimilative capacity in the receiving environment for those contaminants monitored, the suitability of current release limits and recommendation for additional compliance monitoring points to protect downstream environment values. Water Management Plan
- G33
A water management plan must be developed and implemented before prior to commencement of mining activities that provides for the proper and effective management of the actual and potential environmental impacts resulting from the mining activity and to ensure compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- G34
The water management plan must be developed in accordance with the most recent edition of the administering authority's guideline Preparation of Water Management Plans for Mining Activities and must include at least the following components: a) contaminant source study; b) site water balance and model; c) water management system; d) saline drainage prevention and management measures; e) acid rock drainage prevention and management measures; f) emergency and contingency planning; and g) monitoring and review.
- G35
The holder of this environmental authority must undertake a review of the water management plan before 1 November each year to ensure that proper and effective measures, practices or procedures are in place so that the mine is operated in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority and that environmental harm is prevented or minimised.
- G36
The water balance and model in Condition G34 must be run for a simulation period for the following: a) weekly during the period November to March; b) monthly during other periods; c) promptly after each rainfall event greater than fifty (50) millimetres within a twenty-four (24) hour period within the relevant surface water containment area; d) with documentation of inputs and outputs from each run being stored and retrievable for a minimum period of one (1) year; e) performance in response to rainfall must be undertaken by an appropriately qualified person, and f) assessments using the operational simulation water balance model must use a minimum of 100 years of historical rainfall data. Saline, Acid and Metalliferous Drainage
- G37
The holder of this environmental authority must ensure proper and effective measures are taken to avoid or otherwise minimise the generation or release of saline, acid or metalliferous mine drainage as a result of the mining activity. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Erosion and Sediment Control
- G38
Prior to commencement of mining activities, an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and implemented for all stages of the mining activity on the licensed place to prevent or minimise erosion and the release of sediment to receiving waters and contamination of storm water.
- G39
The erosion and sediment control plan must provide for at least the following functions: a) prevent or minimise the contamination of receiving waters and stormwater; b) diverting uncontaminated stormwater run-off around areas disturbed by the mining activity or where contaminants or wastes are stored or handled; c) contaminated stormwater runoff, incident rainfall and leachate are collected; and treated, reused, or released in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority; d) roofing or minimising the size of areas where contaminants or wastes are stored or handled; e) erosion and sediment control structures are placed to minimise erosion of disturbed areas and prevent the contamination of any waters; f) procedures to ensure that erosion and sediment control structures are maintained, and adequate storage is available in sediment dams in accordance with design criteria; and g) training of staff that will be responsible for maintenance and operations of sediment and erosion control structures. Groundwater
- G40
Groundwater quality and level must be monitored at the locations and frequencies defined in Schedule G -- Table 10 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations) and Schedule J -- Figure 6 (Groundwater Bore Monitoring Locations), at the frequency listed in Schedule G -- Table 11 Groundwater Monitoring Frequency) for quality characteristics identified in Schedule G -- Table 12 (Groundwater Contaminant Trigger Levels) and Schedule G - Table 12 (Groundwater Contaminant Limits). Schedule G - Table 10 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations) Location Surface RL (m) Monitoring Point TBA1 Easting GDA94 - Northing (GDA94 - 328.3 Zone54) Zone54) TBA1 Reference Bores LAECUOS (PPL_LAE1) 297376 7809678
- MB52
302025 7811240 TBA1 TBA1 Seepage Detection Bores TBA1 TBA1 TBA1 (Tailings Storage Facility TBA1 TBA1 TBA1
- G41
Prior to commencement of mining activities the holder of this environmental authority must prepare and implement a groundwater monitoring program to the administering authority that must include at least the following components: a) groundwater monitoring bore locations; b) justification for the location of the proposed groundwater monitoring locations, including, but not limited to; i) sufficient background/reference monitoring sites, that are unaffected by the mining activity authorised under this environmental authority to allow scientifically justifiable conclusions on the level of impact from the mining activity; ii) base flow assessment of all watercourses affected by the mining activity; and iii) sufficient number of monitoring bores to enable early detection of any groundwater contamination. c) monitoring of both shallow and deep groundwater and includes an adequate number of monitoring bores which provides sufficient spatial coverage to enable scientifically justifiable conclusions in relation to potential environmental impacts from the mining activity; d) provision for development of baseline groundwater quality, groundwater flow direction and rate and hydraulic conductivity. In addition, consideration must be given to how these parameters may change during the life of the mining project e) characterisation of the potential impacts to the local groundwater system arising from the mining activity; Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 f) representative groundwater samples for the aquifers being sampled; g) bore construction details; h) findings from any resistivity studies undertaken at the licensed place; and i) a Stygofauna Management Plan in accordance with the Stygofauna Management Plan provided in the Paradise South Environmental Management Plan.
- G42
The groundwater monitoring program specified in condition G41 must be independently certified by an appropriately qualified person.
- G43
The groundwater monitoring plan must be reviewed at least once a year before 1 October to ensure that proper and effective measures, practices or procedures are in place so that the mine is operated in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority and that environmental harm is prevented or minimised.
- G44
The holder of this environmental authority must complete an annual groundwater monitoring report, subsequent to commencement of mining activities. The report should be presented together with the surface water quality REMP report. The report must be prepared by an appropriately qualified person and must address the following requirements as a minimum: a) analyses of groundwater chemistry and hydrogeological data for all groundwater monitoring bores required in condition G41; b) identify exceedance of any contaminant trigger levels or limits listed in Schedule G -- Table 12 (Groundwater Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits). c) discuss effectiveness of the current groundwater monitoring regime and any improvements that could be made to ensure early detection of impacts to groundwater; d) detail proposed actions and timeframes to undertake further investigation of potential environmental impacts for any exceedance identified; e) detail proposed mitigation measures for any detected impact to groundwater resulting from the mining activity; f) changes in groundwater levels plotted as a function of time to identify seasonal patterns and possible draw-down effects; g) groundwater elevation contours and flow direction; and h) interpretation and discussion of exceedance of any contaminant trigger levels or limits listed in Schedule G -- Table 12 (Groundwater Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits) and the implications for compliance with this environmental authority.
- G45
If quality characteristics of groundwater from compliance bores identified in Schedule G -- Table 10 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations) exceed any of the trigger levels stated Schedule G -- Table 12 (Groundwater Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits), the holder of this environmental authority must compare the compliance monitoring bore results to the reference bore results and: a) if the level of contaminants at the compliance monitoring bore does not exceed the reference bore results, then no action is to be taken; and b) if the level of contaminants at the compliance monitoring bore is greater than the reference bore results, complete an investigation in accordance with the ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000), into the potential for environmental harm and provide a written report to the administering authority within three (3) months, outlining: Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 i) details of the investigations carried out; ii) details of environmental impacts observed; and iii) actions taken to prevent environmental harm. Note: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated, in accordance with clause (b) of this condition, then no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic within the three-month investigation period.
- G46
Results of monitoring of groundwater from compliance bores identified in Schedule G - Table 10 (Groundwater Monitoring Locations), must not exceed any of the contaminant limits defined in Schedule G -- Table 12 (Groundwater Trigger Levels and Contaminant Limits). Monitoring Bore Construction, Maintenance and Decommissioning
- G47
Groundwater monitoring bores must be constructed, maintained and decommissioned in accordance with methods prescribed in the latest edition of the Agriculture and Resource Management Council of Australia and New Zealand manual titled Minimum Construction Requirements for Water Bores in Australia.
- G48
Oil-based drilling fluids, oil-based additives, synthetic based drilling fluids or synthetic based additives must not be used in the construction of groundwater monitoring bores.
- G49
Current Material Safety Data Sheets for all substances used for the drilling of groundwater monitoring bores must be made available to the administering authority promptly upon request.
- G50
Remedial measures must be taken immediately if the holder of this environmental authority becomes aware that either monitoring bore construction, maintenance or decommissioning have resulted in a change in groundwater quality, groundwater levels or have caused the interconnection of aquifers. END OF CONDITIONS FOR SCHEDULE G Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Schedule H - Sewage Treatment Sewage Treatment - Effluent Release to land
- H1
Treated sewage effluent may only be released to land within the nominated irrigation area identified in Sewage Treatment Management Plan submitted in the initial Plan of Operations in accordance with the contaminant release limits stated in Schedule H - Table 1 (Sewage Effluent Contaminant land Release Limits) and the conditions of this environmental authority.
- H2
All sewage effluent released to land must be monitored at the frequency and for the parameters specified in Schedule H -- Table 1 (Sewage Effluent Contaminant Land Release Limits). Schedule H - Table 1 (Sewage Effluent Contaminant Land Release Limits) Quality Release Limit Limit Type Frequency Characteristic 5 Day Biochemical 20 Maximum Weekly for continuous Oxygen Demand irrigation (mg/L) 30 Maximum Total Suspended Monthly for batch Solids (mg/L) 30 Maximum irrigation 10 50th percentile short term Nitrogen (mg/L) 5 50th percentile long term Fortnightly 15 Maximum Phosphorus (mg/L) 8 50th percentile short term 5 50th percentile long term pH 6.0-8.5 Range E. coli (Organisms/100ml) 200 Maximum Faecal Coliforms (CFU/100ml) 1000 Maximum
- H3
Treated sewage effluent must only be dispersed in accordance with the following outcomes: a) efficient application of effluent utilising best practice methods; b) control of sodicity in the soil; c) minimal degradation of soil structure; d) control of the build up of nutrients and heavy metals in the soil and subsoil from effluent and other sources; e) prevention of: i) subterranean flows of effluent to waters; ii) impacts on the groundwater resource through infiltration; iii) run-off of effluent or seepage from disposal areas by limitation of application rates and the use of structures such as bunds and catch dams; Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 iv) surface ponding; v) spray drift or overspray from effluent disposal areas; vi) damage to native vegetation; f) provide prominent signage, in areas irrigated with effluent and which are accessible to the employees and general public, advising that effluent should not be consumed or used; g) maximise health and safety protection in relation to effluent handling and irrigation; and h) irrigation areas are adequately identified. Note: The rate of effluent irrigation will be dependent on the soil water / nutrient capacity and net available annual average solar evaporation and evapotranspiration rates for the region.
- H4
Sewage effluent released to land must not cause spray drift or over spray to any sensitive place.
- H5
When circumstances prevent the irrigation or beneficial reuse of treated sewage effluent such as during or following rain events, waters must be directed to a wet weather storage (with storage capacity 2 days) or alternative measures must be taken to store or lawfully dispose of effluent.
- H6
The daily volume of effluent release to land must be measured and records kept of the volumes of effluent released.
- H7
The release of contaminants must not exceed the release limits stated in Schedule H -- Table 1 (Sewage Effluent Contaminant Land Release Limits) for each quality characteristic. Sewage Treatment Management Plan
- H8
A Sewage Treatment Management Plan must be developed and submitted to the administering authority in the initial Plan of Operations that provides for the proper and effective management of actual and potential environmental impacts resulting from the operation of sewage treatment plants and to ensure compliance with the conditions of the environmental authority.
- H9
The Sewage Treatment Management Plan must include but no be limited to: a) topographical map of suitable scale clearly showing the licensed place and surrounding land likely to be affected by the sewage treatment plants along with the location of any sensitive receptors; b) a site plan including the Q100 flood level in conjunction with licensed place boundaries and infrastructure, buffer zones and irrigation areas; c) determination of the effluent irrigation area which ensures irrigation is carried out in accordance with condition H3; d) detail any potential impact on groundwater and surface water from the discharge of effluent; e) strategies for managing and minimising the impact on surface water and groundwater; f) modelling to determine the irrigation frequency, application rate and minimum irrigation area to minimise environmental harm; and g) proposed surface and groundwater monitoring to identify any impacts from the irrigation of treated effluent. Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Alarms Sewage treatment infrastructure must be fitted with stand-by pumps and pump-failure alarms
- H10
as well as high level alarms to warn of imminent overflow. All alarms must be able to operate via telemetry and without mains power. Sewage Treatment - Effluent Release to Waters
- H11
Where alternative irrigation or storage methods are not feasible due to an extended wet weather event, treated sewage effluent may be released to waters via RP2, in accordance with release limits specified in Schedule G - Table S (Water Quality Release Limits for Controlled Releases). END OF CONDITIONS FOR SCHEDULE H Permit Environmental authority EPML00347913 Definitions Key terms and/or phrases used in this document are defined in this section. Where a term is not defined, the definition in the Environmental Protection Act 1994, its regulations or environmental protection policies must be used. If a word remains undefined it has its ordinary meaning. "acceptance criteria" means the measures by which the actions implemented to rehabilitate the land are deemed to be complete. The acceptance criteria indicate the success of the rehabilitation outcome or remediation of areas which have been significantly disturbed by the mining activity. Acceptance criteria may include information regarding: a) vegetation establishment, survival and succession; b) vegetation productivity, sustained growth and structure development; c) fauna colonisation and habitat development; d) ecosystem processes such as soil development and nutrient cycling, and the recolonisation of specificfauna groups such as collembola, mites and termites which are involved in these processes; e) microbiological studies including recolonisation by mycorrhizal fungi, microbial biomass and respiration; f) effects of various establishment treatments such as deep ripping, topsoil handling, seeding and fertiliser application on vegetation growth and development; g) resilience of vegetation to disease, insect attack, drought and fire; and h) vegetation water use and effects on ground water levels and catchment yields. "acid mine drainage (AMD)" means any contaminated release emanating from a mining operation formed through a series of chemical and biological reaction, when geological strata is disturbed and exposed to oxygen and moisture as a result of the mining activity. "acid rock drainage (ARD)" means any contaminated release emanating from a mining activity formed through a series of chemical and biological reactions, when geological strata is disturbed and exposed to oxygen and moisture as a result of the mining activity. "administering authority" means the chief executive of the agency administering the Environmental Protection Act 1994. "affected land" means land on which an event has caused or threatens serious or material environmental harm. "Annual Exceedance Probability" or "AEP" the probability that at least one event in excess of a particular magnitude will occur in any given year. "ANZECC 2000" means Australian and New Zealand Environment Conservation Council Marine and Freshwater Quality Guidelines.