Data as at 14 September 2026 · from the Queensland EP Act public register
EPML00853413 · BHP COAL PTY LTD
Coal environmental authority EPML00853413 (BHP COAL PTY LTD), Granted. 142 conditions indexed. Holds PRC plan P-PRCP-100779213.
- Status
- Granted
- Holders
- BHP COAL PTY LTD; BHP Queensland Coal Investments Pty Ltd; Mitsubishi Development Pty Ltd; QCT INVESTMENT PTY. LTD.; QCT MINING PTY. LTD.; QCT RESOURCES PTY LIMITED; Umal Consolidated Pty Ltd
- Tenures
- ML1763; ML1764; ML1802; ML1900; ML700003; ML70121; ML70193; ML70194; ML70287; ML70288; ML70289; ML70421; ML70468; ML70469; ML70478; ML70479; ML70493; ML70494
- PRC plan
- P-PRCP-100779213 · effective 2025-11-04
- How it was read
- Numbered conditions
- Register
- Register record · Instrument PDF
Conditions
142 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
Prevent and /or minimise likelihood of environmental harm In carrying out the environmentally relevant activities, the environmental authority holder must take all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent and/or to minimise the likelihood of environmental harm being caused. Any environmentally relevant activity, that, if carried out incompetently, or negligently, may cause environmental harm, in a manner that could have been prevented, shall be carried out in a proper manner in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- A3
Maintenance of measures, plant and equipment The environmental authority holder must ensure: a) that all measures, plant and equipment necessary to ensure compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority are installed; b) that such measures, plant and equipment are maintained in a proper condition; c) that such measures, plant and equipment are operated in a proper manner; and d) that all instruments and devices used for the measurement or monitoring of any parameter under any condition of this environmental authority are properly calibrated.
- A4
Monitoring and records Except where specified otherwise in another condition of this environmental authority, all monitoring records and reports required by this environmental authority must be kept for a period of not less than five (5) years.
- A5
Monitoring and determinations required under any condition of this environmental authority must be conducted by an appropriately qualified person(s).
- A6
Upon request from the administering authority, copies of monitoring results, records, registers, management plans and reports required by the conditions of this environmental authority must be made available and provided to the administering authority within ten (10) business days or an alternative timeframe agreed between the administering authority and the environmental authority holder.
- A7
Notification of emergencies, incidents and exceptions The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority by written notification within twenty-four (24) hours after becoming aware of any emergency or incident that results in the release of contaminants not in accordance, or reasonably expected to be not in accordance, with the conditions of this environmental authority. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- A8
Within ten (10) business days following the initial notification under condition A7, or the receipt of monitoring results associated with the notification made under condition A7, whichever is the latter, the environmental authority holder must provide further written advice to the administering authority, including the following: a) results and interpretation of any samples taken and analysed; b) outcomes of actions taken at the time to prevent or minimise unlawful environmental harm; and c) proposed actions to prevent a recurrence of the emergency or incident.
- A9
Complaints The environmental authority holder must record all environmental complaints received about the mining activities, including: a) name, address and contact number for of the complainant; b) time and date of complaint; c) reasons for the complaint; d) investigations undertaken; e) conclusions formed; f) actions taken to resolve the complaint, including the use of appropriate dispute resolution if required; g) any abatement measures implemented; and h) person responsible for resolving the complaint.
- A10
A register of alternative arrangements must be established and maintained by the environmental authority holder. The register must include: a) the location to which the alternative arrangement applies; b) the period of the alternative arrangement; c) details about the particular environmental nuisance impact or impacts the arrangement is for; and d) details about the mitigation measures, where relevant.
- A11
Monitoring on request When requested by the administering authority, the environmental authority holder must investigate any nuisance, or contaminant release, or environmental harm, or complaint that is neither frivolous nor vexatious in the opinion of the authorised person, by: a) undertaking the monitoring specified by the administering authority; b) undertaking the monitoring in the timeframe nominated or agreed to by the administering authority; c) completing an analysis and interpretation of the monitoring results; and d) implementing abatement measures, where required.
- A12
The results of the investigation undertaken in accordance with condition A11 must be provided to the administering authority within twenty (20) business days of completion of the monitoring timeframe in accordance with condition A11(b), or a longer timeframe agreed to by the administering authority.
- A13
No mining to be undertaken on ML70478 and ML70479. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Schedule B: Air Condition Condition number
- B1
Odour nuisance The release of noxious or offensive odour or any other noxious or offensive airborne contaminant resulting from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- B2
If the administering authority determines odour released from the mining activities to constitute an environmental nuisance, the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance.
- B3
Dust nuisance The release of dust or particulate matter or both resulting from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- B4
Monitoring of dust and particulate matter resulting from the mining activities, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, must be carried out at a place relevant to the potentially affected sensitive place or commercial place and must not exceed the following levels when measured at any sensitive place or commercial place: e) dust deposition, measured as total insoluble matter, of 120 milligrams per square metre per day, averaged over one month, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of Australian Standard AS3580.10.1 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of particulate matter - Deposited matter - Gravimetric method. f) a concentration of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 micrometre (PM10) suspended in the atmosphere of 50 micrograms per cubic metre over a 24-hour averaging time, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of either: Australian Standard AS3580.9.6 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 high volume sampler with size selective inlet - Gravimetric method; or Australian Standard AS3580.9.8 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 continuous direct mass method using a tapered element oscillating microbalance analyser; or Australian Standard AS3580.9.9 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 low volume sampler - Gravimetric method; or Australian Standard AS3580.9.11 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 beta attenuation monitors. g) a concentration of particulate matter suspended in the atmosphere of 90 micrograms per cubic metre over a 1 year averaging time, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of either: i. Australian Standard AS3580.9.3 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - Total suspended particulate matter (TSP) - High volume sampler gravimetric method; or any alternative method of monitoring TSP that may be permitted by the Air Quality Sampling Manual as published from time to time by the administering authority. NOTE: Exceedances due to events that cannot be managed by the environmental authority holder, such as bushfires, fuel reduction burning for fire management purposes or dust storms, would not be considered to be in breach of condition B4 if the environmental authority holder can demonstrate that the exceedance was caused by such events.
- B5
If monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, indicates exceedance of the relevant limits in condition B4, the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Schedule C: Noise and Vibration Condition Condition number
- C1
Noise nuisance Noise from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C2
Noise is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C1 if monitoring shows that noise does not exceed the limits in Table C1 (Noise Limits), at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C3
Noise monitoring Noise monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, must comply with the most recent version of the administering authority's Noise Measurement Manual, and must include the following descriptors, characteristics and conditions: h) LA10, adj, 10 mins; i) LA 1, adj, 10 mins; j) the level and frequency of occurrence of impulsive or tonal noise; k) atmospheric conditions including wind speed and direction; l) effects due to extraneous factors such as traffic noise; and m) location, date and time of recording.
- C4
If monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, indicates exceedance of the relevant limits in Table C1 (Noise Limits), the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance. Table C1 (Noise Limits) Monday to Saturday Sundays and Public Holidays Noise Level Day Evening Night Day Evening Night dB(A) (7am to 6pm) (6pm to 10pm) (10pm to 7am) (9am to 6pm) (6pm to 10pm) (10pm to 9am) LA10, adj, 10 mins B/g + 5 B/g + 5 Sensitive Place B/g + 5 B/g + 5 B/g + 0 LA1, adj, 10 mins B/g + 10 B/g + 10 B/g + 0 B/g + 10 B/g + 10 B/g + 5 B/g + 5 LA10, adj, 10 mins B/g + 10 B/g + 10 B/g + 10 B/g + 10 B/g + 5 LA1, adj, 10 mins B/g + 15 B/g + 15 Commercial Place B/g + 15 B/g + 15 B/g + 10 B/g + 5 B/g + 10 Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- C5
Vibration nuisance Vibration from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C6
Vibration is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C5 if monitoring shows that vibration does not exceed the limits specified in Table C2 (Vibration Limits).
- C7
Airblast overpressure nuisance The airblast overpressure level from blasting operations on the mining leases must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C8
Airblast overpressure is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C7 if monitoring shows that airblast overpressure does not exceed the levels specified in Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level).
- C9
Vibration and/or airblast overpressure monitoring Vibration and/or airblast overpressure monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, must comply with the most recent version of the administering authority's Noise Measurement Manual, and must include the following descriptors, characteristics and conditions: n) location of the blast(s) within the mining area (including which bench level); o) atmospheric conditions including temperature, relative humidity and wind speed and direction; and p) location, date and time of recording.
- C10
If monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, indicates exceedance of the relevant limits in Table C2 (Vibration Limits) or Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level), the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance.
- C11
The environmental authority holder cannot undertake any blasting on ML70478 and ML70479. Location Table C2 (Vibration Limits) Sensitive place or commercial place Vibration Measured 5 mm/s peak particle velocity for nine (9) out of ten (10) consecutive blasts and not greater than 10 mm/s peak particle velocity at any time. Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level) Location Airblast Overpressure Measured Sensitive place or commercial place 115 dB (Linear peak) for nine (9) out of ten (10) consecutive blasts and not greater than 120 dB (Linear peak) at any time. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Schedule D: Waste Condition Condition number
- D1
Waste management a) A Waste Management Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and implemented. The Waste Management Plan must include, but is not limited to: b) a description of the mining activities that may generate waste; c) a description of all waste activities being carried out; d) the location/s (including GPS coordinates) of where all waste activities are, or have been, carried out, including: i. the type of waste disposed of, treated, or reprocessed; and ii. the volume of waste disposed of, treated, or reprocessed; e) identification of the potential risks to the environment from all waste activities carried out; f) control measures to be implemented to minimise the potential for environmental harm associated with carrying out of the waste activities, including but not limited to: i. segregation of the wastes; ii. storage of the wastes; iii. transport of the wastes; and iv. monitoring and reporting matters concerning the wastes; g) how the waste will be managed with in accordance with the waste management hierarchy (that is, avoid, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, disposal); h) the hazardous characteristics of the wastes generated including disposal procedures for hazardous wastes; i) procedures for reprocessing waste in accordance with condition D4; j) procedures for managing accidents, spills and other incidents; k) the indicators or other criteria on which the performance of the waste management plan will be assessed; l) staff training; and m) reference to the Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program for the general waste landfill.
- D2
The environmental authority holder must submit the Waste Management Plan required by condition D1 to the administering authority prior to commencing a new process, or varying an existing process, for reprocessing any waste.
- D3
Waste receipt The only waste permitted to be received is: a) the types of waste specified in conditions D5 to D8 (inclusive); and b) sewage and sludge for treatment in accordance with Schedule H: Sewage Treatment; and c) from a BHP Billiton Mitsui Coal (BMC) or BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) site in Queensland. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- D4
Waste reprocessing The only waste permitted to be reprocessed is: a) spoil or overburden; b) vegetation; c) water or sediment containing hydrocarbons; d) fuels, oils, lubricants and coolants; e) bulk rubber; f) inert waste; g) poly-pipe and other plastic; h) fibreglass; i) treated and untreated timber; and j) asphalt.
- D5
Waste disposal Unless otherwise specified in conditions D6 to D8 (inclusive), waste, other than spoil or overburden or vegetation removed as part of the mining activity, must not be disposed of within the mining leases listed on this environmental authority and must be taken to a facility that is lawfully allowed to accept such waste under the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1994.
- D6
The following types of waste are permitted to be disposed of within the specified features for the waste type: a) rejects and sediment containing hydrocarbons: i. in spoil emplacements; and ii. in regulated structures in accordance with Schedule G: Structures of this environmental authority; and iii. in pits or voids; and iv. in dedicated rejects emplacements; and b) tailings and water or sediment containing hydrocarbons: i. in regulated structures in accordance with Schedule G: Structures of this environmental authority; and in pits or voids that are not regulated structures, provided a consequence category assessment in accordance with condition G1 has been completed. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- D7
The following types of waste are permitted to be disposed of within the mining leases listed on this environmental authority: a) bulk rubber; b) inert waste; c) poly-pipe and other plastic; d) fibreglass; e) treated and untreated timber; f) asphalt; and g) asbestos. These types of waste may be disposed of: h) in pits or voids; i) in spoil emplacements; and j) left insitu below ground level.
- D8
General waste can only be disposed of into the general waste landfill on ML1763 and identified in Figure 1 (General Waste Landfill Location), which must be operated in accordance with the Waste Management Plan as described by condition D1. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Schedule E: Land Condition Condition number
- E1
Topsoil Topsoil must be strategically stripped ahead of mining in accordance with a Topsoil Management Plan.
- E2
PRCP schedule Progressive rehabilitation/improvement of the disturbed land must be carried out in accordance with the approved Progressive Rehabilitation and Closure Plan (PRCP) schedule P-PRCP-100779213 for this environmental authority.
- E3
Preventing contaminant release to land Contaminants must not be released to land in manner that constitutes a nuisance, material harm or serious environmental harm.
- E4
Storage and handling of chemicals and flammable or combustible liquids All chemicals and flammable or combustible liquids must be stored and handled in accordance with the most recent version of an Australian Standard where such is applicable. Where no relevant Australian Standard exists, store such materials within an effective on-site containment system.
- E5
Subsidence management procedures must be developed and implemented during the operational phase of long wall mining, except for watercourse subsidence that is subject to Schedule H: Watercourse Subsidence. The subsidence management strategies must be detailed in the Subsidence Management Plan and must at a minimum include: a) subsidence modelling prior to mining; b) subsidence repairs; and c) land management practices pre and post subsidence.
- E6
No subsidence permitted on ML70478 and ML70479.
- E7
Surrender The holder must meet the conditions and the rehabilitation/management milestones under the PRCP schedule P-PRCP-100779213 prior to the surrender of the environmental authority.
- E8
Impacts to Prescribed Environmental Matters No impact on State Significant Biodiversity Values (SSBV) or Matters of State Environmental Significance (MSES) on ML70478 and ML70479.
- E9
Impacts to Matters of State Environmental Significance (MSES) on ML1763 that are associated with Red Hill Mine are only authorised to occur in accordance with the conditions of the Red Hill Mine Environmental Authority EPML03337715. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Schedule F: Water Condition Condition number
- F1
Contaminant Release Contaminants that will or have the potential to cause environmental harm must not be released directly or indirectly to any waters as a result of the mining activities, except as permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority.
- F2
Unless otherwise permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority, the release of mine affected water to waters must only occur from the release points specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F3
The release of mine affected water to internal water management infrastructure that is installed and operated in accordance with a Water Management Plan that complies with conditions F28 to F29 inclusive is permitted. Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) Release Easting Northing Mine Affected Water Monitoring Point Receiving Waters Point (GDA94) (GDA94) Source and Location Description (RP) Upstream of 602621 7588947 GS4a Dam (Eureka spillway (MP1) Isaac River
- F4
The release of mine affected water to waters in accordance with condition F2 must not exceed the release limits stated in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) when measured at the monitoring points specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) for each quality characteristic. Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Release Limit Monitoring Frequency Electrical Conductivity 10,000 Real time telemetry for EC and pH with grab samples at commencement (-S/cm) and weekly thereafter when safe to do so and access permits pH 6.5 (minimum) Daily grab samples if telemetry not available (the first sample must be taken (pH units) 9.0 (maximum) as soon as practicable)^ Sulphate (SO42-) N/A (correlated with Commencement of release and weekly thereafter during release when safe (mg/L) EC) to do so and access permits NOTES:^ Generally during daylight hours only Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- F5
The release of mine affected water to waters from the release points must be monitored at the locations specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) for each quality characteristic and at the frequency specified in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) and Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels). NOTE: the administering authority will take into consideration any extenuating circumstances prior to determining an appropriate enforcement response in the event condition F5 is contravened due to a temporary lack of safe or practical access. The administering authority expects the environmental authority holder to take all reasonable and practicable measures to maintain safe and practical access to designated monitoring locations. When there no temporary safe or practical access to the monitoring point, a representative alternative site or monitoring point can be used. Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) Quality Characteristic Trigger Comment of Trigger Level Monitoring Level Frequency Aluminium (mg/L) 1.53 Based on 80th percentile of 4 background sites and comparison with upstream values. Chromium (mg/L) 0.003 Based on 80th percentile of 4 background sites and comparison with upstream values. Copper (mg/L) 0.003 Based on 80th percentile of 4 background sites and comparison with upstream values. Molybdenum (mg/L) 0.034 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on low reliability guideline Nickel (mg/L) 0.011 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Selenium (mg/L) 0.01 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS Uranium (mg/L) 0.001 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for Commencement Vanadium (mg/L) 0.01 ICPMS of release and 0.008 Zinc (mg/L) 0.97 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for weekly Iron (mg/L) ICPMS thereafter during For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD release, when guideline safe to do so and access Based on 80th percentile of 4 background sites and comparison with upstream values. permits. Nitrate (mg/L) 1.1 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on ambient Qld WQ Guidelines (2006) for TN For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on Isaac Total Nitrogen (mg/L) 0.5 River Sub-basin Environmental Values and Water Quality Objectives (September 2011) For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on Isaac Total Phosphorus (mg/L) 0.05 River Sub-basin Environmental Values and Water
- F6
If quality characteristics of the release exceed any of the trigger levels specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) during a release event, the environmental authority holder must compare the downstream results in the receiving waters to the trigger values specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) and: (1) where the trigger values are not exceeded then no action is to be taken; or (2) where the downstream results exceed the trigger values specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) for any quality characteristic, compare the results of the downstream site to the data from background monitoring sites and; (a) if the result is less than the background monitoring site data, then no action is to be taken; or (b) 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 in the next annual return, outlining: i. details of the investigations carried out; and ii. actions taken to prevent environmental harm. NOTE: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated, in accordance with condition F6(2)(b), no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic.
- F7
If an exceedance in accordance with condition F6(2)(b) is identified, the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the result.
- F8
Mine Affected Water Release Events The environmental authority holder must ensure a stream flow gauging station(s) is installed, operated and maintained to determine and record stream flows at the locations and flow recording frequency specified in Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events).
- F9
Notwithstanding any other condition of this environmental authority, the release of mine affected water to waters in accordance with condition F2 must only take place during periods of natural flow events in accordance with the receiving water flow criteria for discharge specified in Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events) for the release point(s) specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F10
Notwithstanding condition F9, releases from RP1 may occur during periods of no flow in the Isaac River, provided: a) a surface flow has been recorded in Eureka Creek at Monitoring Point 2 within the twenty-four (24) hour period prior to release; and b) the release serves only to allow for the total volume of inflow into GS4a Dam resulting from natural flows in Eureka Creek to be conveyed through GS4a Dam into the Isaac River during periods of no flow in the Isaac River.
- F11
The 80th percentile of electrical conductivity (EC) values recorded at the downstream monitoring points listed in Table F6 (Receiving Waters Upstream Background and Downstream Monitoring Points) must not exceed 2000uS/cm at any time during the release influence period. The 80th percentile must be calculated using all EC values recorded by the monitoring station during the release influence period. Note: The release influence period is the period during which the downstream monitoring points are influenced by mine affected water includes both the duration of release and any lag time between release point/s and downstream monitoring points Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- F12
The daily quantity of mine affected water released from each release point must be measured and recorded at the monitoring points in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F13
Releases to waters must be undertaken so as not to cause erosion of the bed and banks of the receiving waters, or cause a material build-up of sediment in such waters. Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events) Receiving waters Release Gauging Gauging Station Gauging Station Receiving Water Flow Receiving Water Point Station Easting Northing Criteria for Discharge* Flow Recording (RP) (GDA94) (GDA94) (m3/s) Frequency^ Isaac River Upper Isaac 605183 7596105 3 Daily RP1 River ^ Assumes access to real time telemetry monitoring is available. Where real time telemetry is not available, daily records will be calculated. # When the downstream flow gauge falls below the minimum flow trigger, the 6 week tail flow period commences. Tail flow restricted by trigger limits in receiving waters (Table F5). * Receiving water minimum flow requirements at the time of commencement apply to the entire release event, where the release period changes.
- F14
Notification of release event The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority via WaTERS as soon as practicable and no later than twenty-four (24) hours after commencing to release mine affected water to the receiving environment. The release commencement notification must include the submission of written advice to the administering authority of the following information: a) release commencement date and time; b) expected release cessation date and time; c) release point(s); d) release rate; e) receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; and f) any details (including available data) regarding likely impacts on the receiving water(s).
- F15
The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority via WaTERS as soon as practicable and no later than twenty-four (24) hours after cessation of a release event notified under condition F14. The release cessation notification must include the submission of written advice to the administering authority of the following information: a) release cessation date and time; b) receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; c) volume of water released; and d) for RP1, the volume of mine-affected water discharged into GS4a Dam. NOTE: Successive or intermittent releases occurring within twenty-four (24) hours of the cessation of any individual release can be considered part of a single release event and do not require individual notification for the purpose of compliance with conditions F14 and F15 and F16, provided the relevant details of the release are included within the notification provided in accordance with conditions F14 and F15 and F16. Without limiting condition F9 and F10 of this environmental authority, condition F15d) is to provide clarity on the volume of mine- affected water discharged through RP1. For condition F9 releases at RP1, the release flow rate and volume released reported in the WaTERS release notification portal is the volume of mine-affected water discharged into GS4a Dam. For Condition F10 releases at RP1, the release flow rate and volume released reported in the WaTERS release notification portal is the volume of flow into GS4a and released at RP1 as a result of natural flows in Eureka Creek. In addition, for all releases, both values are to be captured as per Condition F15 as a memo within the WaTERS event. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- F16
Within twenty-eight (28) days of notification under condition F15, the environmental authority holder must provide the administrating authority via WaTERS the following information in writing: a) confirmation of: i. the release commencement date and time; ii. the release cessation date and time; iii. receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; iv. volume of water released; v. for RP1, the volume of mine-affected water discharged into GS4a Dam; b) all in-situ and laboratory water quality monitoring results; c) details regarding the compliance of the release with the conditions of Schedule F: Water of this environmental authority (i.e. contamination limits, natural flow, discharge volume); d) whether the release of water resulted in any impacts to the receiving environment; and e) any other matter(s) pertinent to the water release event.
- F17
Notification of release event exceedance If the release limits defined in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) are exceeded, the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the results.
- F18
The environmental authority holder must, within twenty-eight (28) days of the notification provided in accordance with condition F17, provide a report to the administering authority via WaTERS detailing: a) the reason for the release; b) the location of the release; c) the total volume of the release and which (if any) part of this volume was non-compliant; d) the total duration of the release and which (if any) part of this period was non-compliant; e) all water quality monitoring results; f) any general observations; g) all calculations; and h) any other matters pertinent to the water release event.
- F19
Receiving Environment Monitoring and Contaminant Trigger Levels The quality of the receiving waters must be monitored at the locations specified in Table F6 (Receiving Water Upstream Background and Downstream Monitoring Points) for each quality characteristic and at the monitoring frequency stated in Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) and Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels). Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- F20
If quality characteristic(s) of the receiving water at the downstream monitoring point exceed any of the trigger levels specified in Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) during a release event the environmental authority holder must compare the downstream results to the upstream results in the receiving waters and: (1) where the downstream result is the same or a lower value than the upstream value for the quality characteristic then no action is to be taken; or (2) where the downstream results exceed the upstream results, complete an investigation into the potential for environmental harm and provide a written report to the administering authority in the next annual return, outlining: (a) details of the investigations carried out; and (b) actions taken to prevent environmental harm. NOTE: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated in accordance with F20(2) of this condition, no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic. Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) Quality Characteristic Trigger Level Monitoring Frequency pH 6.5 to 9.0 Real time telemetry for EC and pH with grab samples at commencement and (pH units) weekly thereafter when safe to do so and access permits Electrical Conductivity 2000 - cease the Daily grab samples if telemetry not available (the first sample must be taken (-S/cm) release as soon as practicable)^ Sulphate (SO42-) 1000 Commencement of release and weekly thereafter during release when safe to (mg/L) do so and access permits^ NOTES: ^ Generally during daylight hours only Table F6 (Receiving Waters Upstream, Background and Downstream Monitoring Points) Monitoring Point Receiving Waters Location Description Easting Northing (MP) (GDA94) (GDA94) Upstream Background Monitoring Points a
- MP2
Eureka Creek upstream 595792 7592251 7590685
- MP3
Isaac River upstream of confluence with Eureka Creek 604898 7588947 Release Point Monitoring Points 7582923
- MP1
Eureka Creek Diversion (GS4a Dam) 602621 Downstream Monitoring Points
- MP4
Isaac River downstream (Railway Bridge) 600545 NOTES: (a) The data from background monitoring points must not be used where they are affected by releases from other mines Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- F21
Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) The environmental authority holder must develop and implement a Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) to monitor, identify and describe any adverse impacts to surface water environmental values, quality and flows due to the authorised mining activity. This must include monitoring the effects of the mine on the receiving environment periodically (under natural flow conditions) and while mine affected water is being discharged from the site. For the purposes of the REMP, the receiving environment is the waters of the Isaac River and connected or surrounding waterways within ten (10) kilometres downstream of the release. The REMP should encompass any sensitive receiving waters or environmental values downstream of the authorised mining activity that will potentially be directly affected by an authorised release of mine affected water.
- F22
The REMP must: a) assess the condition or state of receiving waters, including upstream conditions, spatially within the REMP area, considering background water quality characteristics based on accurate and reliable monitoring data that takes into consideration temporal variation (e.g. seasonality); b) be designed to facilitate assessment against water quality objectives for the relevant environmental values that need to be protected; c) include monitoring from background reference sites (e.g. upstream or background) and downstream sites from the release (as a minimum, the locations specified in Table F6 (Receiving Water Upstream Background and Downstream Monitoring Points)); d) specify the frequency and timing of sampling required in order to reliably assess ambient conditions and to provide sufficient data to derive site specific background reference values in accordance with the Queensland Water Quality Guidelines 2009. This should include monitoring during periods of natural flow irrespective of mine or other discharges; e) include monitoring and assessment of dissolved oxygen saturation, temperature and all water quality parameters listed in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) and Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels)); f) include, where appropriate, monitoring of metals/metalloids in sediments (in accordance with ANZECC & ARMCANZ 2000, BATLEY and/or the most recent version of AS5667.1 Guidance on Sampling of Bottom Sediments); g) include, where appropriate, monitoring of macroinvertebrates in accordance with the AusRivas methodology, h) apply procedures and/or guidelines from ANZECC & ARMCANZ 2000 and other relevant guideline documents; i) describe sampling and analysis methods and quality assurance and control; and j) incorporate stream flow and hydrological information in the interpretations of water quality and biological data.
- F23
A report outlining the findings of the REMP, including all monitoring results and interpretations in accordance with conditions F21 and F22 must be prepared annually. This report must include the following: a) an assessment of background reference water quality; b) the condition of downstream water quality compared against water quality objectives; and c) the suitability of current discharge limits to protect downstream environmental values. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- F24
Water reuse 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, such as farm dams or tanks, 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 Table F7 (Stock Water Release Limits); or b) supplying irrigation water subject to compliance with quality release limits in Table F8 (Irrigation Water Release Limits); or c) supplying water for construction and/or road maintenance in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority. Table F7 (Stock Water Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Units Minimum Maximum pH pH units 6.5 8.5 -S/cm N/A 5000 Electrical Conductivity Table F8 (Irrigation Water Release Limits) Maximum Quality Characteristic 8.5 pH Units Minimum pH units 6.5 Site specific value determined Electrical Conductivity -S/cm in accordance with ANZECC N/A & ARMCANZ (2000) Irrigation Guidelines
- F25
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, such as dams or tanks, for the purpose of supplying water to any operation licensed for either ERA13 (mining black coal) or ERA31 (mineral processing). The volume, pH and electrical conductivity of water transferred must be monitored and recorded.
- F26
If the responsibility for mine affected water is given or transferred to another person in accordance with conditions F24 or F25: 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 or public health incidents and specifically make the persons aware of the General Environmental Duty (GED) under section 319 of the Environmental Protection Act 1994, environmental sustainability of the water disposal and protection of environmental values of waters; and c) the third party agreement must be signed by both parties to the agreement. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- F27
Water general All determinations of water quality and biological monitoring must be: a) performed by a person or body possessing appropriate experience and qualifications to perform the required measurements; b) made in accordance with methods prescribed in the latest edition of the administering authority's Monitoring and Sampling Manual; c) collected from the monitoring locations identified within this environmental authority, within ten hours of each other where possible; d) carried out on representative samples; and e) analysed at a laboratory accredited (e.g. NATA) for the method of analysis being used. Note: Condition F27 requires the Monitoring and Sampling Manual to be followed and where it is not followed because of exceptional circumstances this should be explained and reported with the results.
- F28
Water Management Plan A Water Management Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person(s) and implemented for all mining activities. The Water Management Plan must address, the following: a) provide for effective management of actual and potential environmental impacts resulting from water management associated with the mining activity carried out under this environmental authority; and b) be developed in accordance with administering authority's guideline Preparation of water management plans for mining activities and include: ii. a study of the source of contaminants; a water balance model for the site; a water management system for the site; measures to manage and prevent saline drainage; measures to manage and prevent acid rock drainage; contingency procedures for emergencies; and a program for monitoring and review of the effectiveness of the Water Management Plan.
- F29
The Water Management Plan must be reviewed each calendar year by an appropriately qualified person(s).
- F30
Stormwater and water sediment controls An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and implemented for all stages of the mining activities on the site to minimise erosion and the release of sediment to receiving waters and contamination of stormwater.
- F31
Stormwater, other than mine affected water, is permitted to be released to waters from: a) erosion and sediment control structures that are installed and operated in accordance with the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan required by condition F30; and b) water management infrastructure that is installed and operated, in accordance with a Water Management Plan that complies with conditions F28 to F29 inclusive, for the purpose of ensuring water does not become mine affected water. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- G1
Assessment of consequence category The consequence category of any structure must be assessed by a suitably qualified and experienced person, in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic a) prior to the design and construction of the structure, if it is not an existing structure; or b) prior to any change in its purpose or the nature of its stored contents.
- G2
A consequence assessment report and certification must be prepared for each structure assessed and the report may include a consequence assessment for more than one structure.
- G3
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 Consequence Categories and Hydraulic
- G4
Design and construction of a regulated structure Conditions G5 to G9 inclusive do not apply to existing structures. NOTE: Construction of a dam includes modification of an existing dam - see definitions.
- G5
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 (EM635). NOTE: Certification of design and construction may be undertaken by different persons.
- G6
Construction of a regulated structure is prohibited unless the environmental authority holder has submitted a consequence category assessment report and certification to the administering authority has been certified by a suitably qualified and experienced person for the design and design plan and the associated operating procedures in compliance with the relevant condition of this environmental authority.
- G7
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 Consequence recorded in the Register of Regulated Structures. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- G8
Regulated structures must: a) be designed and constructed in accordance with and conform to the requirements of the Manual April 2014) (EM635); b) be designed and constructed with due consideration given to ensuring that the design integrity would not be compromised on account of: i. floodwaters from entering the regulated dam from any watercourse or drainage line; and ii. wall failure due to erosion by floodwaters arising from any watercourse or drainage line. c) for regulated dams associated with a failure to contain - seepage, have the floor and sides of the dam designed and constructed to prevent or minimise the passage of the wetting front and any entrained contaminants through either the floor or sides of the dam during the operational life of the dam and for any period of decommissioning and rehabilitation of the dam.
- G9
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.
- G10
Operation of a regulated structure Operation of a regulated structure, except for an existing structure, is prohibited unless the environmental authority holder has submitted to the administering authority: a) one paper copy and one electronic copy of the design plan and certification of the `design plan' in accordance with condition G6; b) a set of `as constructed' drawings and specifications; c) certification of those `as constructed drawings and specifications' in accordance with condition G9; d) 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; e) the requirements of this environmental authority relating to the construction of the regulated structure have been met; f) the environmental authority holder has entered the details, required under this environmental authority, into the Register of Regulated Structures; and g) there is a current operational plan for the regulated structures.
- G11
For existing structures that are regulated structures: a) where the existing structure that is a regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system for the purpose of sharing the DSA volume across the system, the environmental authority holder must submit to the administering authority within twelve (12) months of the commencement of this condition a copy of the certified system design plan including that structure; and b) there must be a current operational plan for the existing structures.
- G12
Each regulated structure must be maintained and operated, for the duration of its operational life until decommissioned and rehabilitated, in a manner that is consistent with the current operational plan and, if applicable, the current design plan and associated certified `as constructed' drawings. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- G13
Mandatory Reporting Level Conditions G14 to G17 inclusive only apply to regulated structures which have not been certified as low consequence category for `failure to contain - overtopping'.
- G14
The Mandatory Reporting Level (the MRL) must be marked on a regulated dam in such a way that, during routine inspections of that dam, it is clearly observable.
- G15
The environmental authority holder 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 dam reaches the MRL.
- G16
The environmental authority holder must immediately on becoming aware that the MRL has been reached, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam.
- G17
The environmental authority holder must record any changes to the MRL in the Register of Regulated Structures.
- G18
Design Storage Allowance The environmental authority holder must assess the performance of each regulated dam or linked containment system over the preceding November to May period based on actual observations of the available storage in each regulated dam or linked containment system taken prior to 1 July of each year.
- G19
By 1 November of each year, storage capacity must be available in each regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems with a shared DSA volume), to meet the Design Storage Allowance (DSA) volume for the dam (or network of linked containment systems).
- G20
The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority as soon as possible and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware that the regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year.
- G21
The environmental authority holder must, immediately on becoming aware that a regulated dam (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 dam or linked containment systems.
- G22
Annual inspection report Each regulated structure must be inspected each calendar year by a suitably qualified and experienced person.
- G23
At each annual inspection, the condition and adequacy of all components of the regulated structure must be assessed and 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.
- G24
The suitably qualified and experienced person who prepared the annual inspection report must certify the report in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- G25
The environmental authority holder must: a) within twenty (20) business days of receipt of the annual inspection report, provide to the administering authority: i. the recommendations section of the annual inspection report; and ii. if applicable, any actions being taken in response to those recommendations; and b) if, following receipt of the recommendations and (if applicable) actions, the administering authority requests a full copy of the annual inspection report from the environmental authority holder, provide this to the administering authority within ten (10) business days of receipt of the request.
- G26
Transfer arrangements The environmental authority holder 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, consequence assessment, design plan and other supporting documentation, to a new holder on transfer of this authority.
- G27
Register of Regulated Structures A Register of Regulated Structures must be established and maintained by the environmental authority holder for each regulated structure.
- G28
The environmental authority holder must provisionally enter the required information in the Register of Regulated Structures when a design plan for a regulated structure is submitted to the administering authority.
- G29
The environmental authority holder must make a final entry of the required information in the Register of Regulated Structures once compliance with condition G10 and G11 has been achieved.
- G30
The environmental authority holder must ensure that the information contained in the Register of Regulated Structures is current and complete on any given day.
- G31
All entries in the Register of Regulated Structures must be approved by the chief executive officer for the environmental authority holder, or their delegate, as being accurate and correct.
- G32
The environmental authority holder must, at the same time as providing the annual return, supply to the administering authority a copy of the records contained in the Register of Regulated Structures, in the electronic format required by the administering authority.
- G33
Transitional arrangements All existing structures that have not been assessed in accordance with either, the Manual or the former Manual for Assessing Hazard Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Dams, must be assessed and certified in accordance with the Manual within six (6) months of amendment of the environmental authority adopting this schedule.
- G34
All existing structures must subsequently comply with the timetable for any further assessments in accordance with the Manual specified in Table G1 (Transitional Requirements for Existing Structures), depending on the consequence category for each existing structure assessed in the most recent previous certification for that structure. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- G35
Table G1 (Transitional Requirements for Existing Structures) ceases to apply for a structure once any of the following events has occurred: a) it has been brought into compliance with the hydraulic performance criteria applicable to the structure under the Manual; or b) it has been decommissioned; or c) it has been certified as no longer being assessed as a regulated structure.
- G36
Certification of the transitional assessment required by G33 and G34 (as applicable) must be provided to the administering authority within six (6) months of amendment of the environmental authority adopting this schedule. Table G1 (Transitional Requirements for Existing Structures) Transition period required for existing structures to achieve the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Compliance with Criteria High Significant Low >90% and a history of good No transition required No transition required No transitional conditions compliance performance in apply. Review consequence assessment every 7 years. last 5 years >70% to 90% Within 7 years, unless Within 10 years, unless No transitional conditions otherwise agreed with the otherwise agreed with the apply. Review consequence administering authority, based administering authority, based assessment every 7 years. on no history of unauthorised on no history of unauthorised releases. releases. 50 to 70% Within 5 years unless Within 7 years unless Review consequence otherwise agreed with the otherwise agreed with the assessment every 7 years. administering authority, based administering authority, based on no history of unauthorised on no history of unauthorised releases. releases. 50% Within 5 years or as per Within 5 years or as per Review consequence compliance requirements compliance requirements assessment every 5 years. (e.g. TEP timing) (e.g. TEP timing) Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Schedule H: Sewage Treatment Condition Condition number
- H1
Treated sewage effluent The cumulative total daily peak design capacity of the sewage treatment plant/s must not exceed 4000 equivalent persons (EP). Small package plants and/or septic systems, each with a daily peak design capacity less than 21EP, are not included in the cumulative total daily peak design capacity.
- H2
Treated sewage effluent must not be directly released from the sewage treatment plant/s to any waters. Note: `waters' does not include structures associated with the mine affected water management system.
- H3
Treated sewage effluent may be: a) released to the mine affected water management system for mixing with other mine affected water; b) released to land via a sub-surface infiltration trench; c) irrigated or sprayed for dust suppression or firefighting or evaporation; or d) removed as waste.
- H4
Treated sewage effluent that is released in accordance with condition H3(a) and has mixed with other mine affected water must be managed as mine affected water in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- H5
Treated sewage effluent that is released in accordance with condition H3(b) or H3(c) must be carried out in a manner such that: a) vegetation is not damaged; b) there is no surface ponding of effluent; and c) there is no run-off of treated sewage effluent to waters.
- H6
Treated sewage effluent released in accordance with condition H3(a) or H3(b) or H3(c) from any sewage treatment plant that has a daily peak design capacity of greater than 21EP must be monitored: a) at the point where the treated sewage effluent is released from the sewage treatment plant/s; b) for the quality characteristics specified in Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements); and c) at the frequency specified in Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements). Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements) Quality Characteristic Units Monitoring Frequency 5-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (uninhibited) mg/L pH pH units Monthly Colonies per 100mL Monthly Thermotolerant coliforms Monthly Total nitrogen mg/L Monthly mg/L Monthly Total phosphorus
- H7
If treated sewage effluent is being released in accordance with condition H3(c): d) the results of monitoring in accordance with condition H6 must not exceed the release limits specified in Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits); and e) the release must not cause spray drift or over spray to any sensitive place or commercial place.
- H8
If the release limits specified in Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits) are exceeded in accordance with condition H7(a), the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority in accordance with conditions A7 and A8. Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Release Limit Units Limit Type 50 mg/L Maximum 5-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (uninhibited) pH units pH 6.0 to 9.0 Colonies per 100mL Range 1000 Maximum Thermotolerant coliforms, based on the average of a minimum number of five samples collected Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Schedule I: Groundwater Condition Condition number
- I1
Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program A Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program to detect and manage risk from the landfill authorised by condition D8 must be developed, documented and implemented by an appropriately qualified person prior to the landfill receiving waste.
- I2
The Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program required by condition I2 must: a) identify potential sources of contamination to groundwater from the landfill; b) ensure that all potential groundwater impacts due to the landfill are identified, mitigated and monitored; c) document sampling and monitoring methodology; d) ensure that adequate groundwater monitoring and data analysis is undertaken to achieve the following objectives: i. detect any impacts to groundwater levels due to the landfill; ii. detect any impacts to groundwater quality due to the landfill; and iii. determine trends in groundwater quality; e) include an appropriate quality assurance and quality control program; f) include a conceptual groundwater model; g) be provided to the administering authority for review at least six (6) weeks before being finalised; and h) include a review process to identify required improvements to the program and address any comments provided by the administering authority.
- I3
The construction, maintenance and decommissioning of groundwater monitoring bores must be undertaken in a manner that: a) prevents contaminants entering the groundwater; b) ensures the integrity of the bores to obtain representative groundwater samples from the target aquifer; and c) maintains the hydrogeological environment within the aquifer.
- I4
A bore drill log must be kept for each reference, compliance and observation groundwater monitoring bore which includes: a) bore identification reference and geographic coordinate location; b) specific construction information including but not limited to depth of bore, depth and length of casing, depth and length of screening and bore sealing details; c) standing groundwater level and water quality parameters including physical parameters and results of laboratory analysis for the possible trigger parameters; d) lithological data, stratigraphic interpretation by an appropriately qualified person to identify important features associated with groundwater monitoring; and e) target aquifer formation of the bore. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) Schedule J: Watercourse Subsidence Condition Condition number
- J1
Authorised subsidence Subject to the conditions of this environmental authority, specifically conditions J1 to J14 inclusive, the environmental authority holder is authorised to subside the Isaac River within ML1763, as depicted in Figure 2 (Authorised Subsidence Extent). This subsidence is authorised to occur as a result of underground longwall mining activities.
- J2
This environmental authority does not authorise the use of top coal caving (or thick seam mining) methods where it would result in subsidence of the bed or banks of the Isaac River.
- J3
Subsidence Management Plan A Subsidence Management Plan must be developed to the satisfaction of the administering authority, in accordance with the administering authority's guideline "Watercourse Subsidence - Central Queensland Mining Industry" or any subsequent versions, or any other relevant guideline as directed by the administering authority. The Subsidence Management Plan must include at least the following components: a) the condition of the existing watercourse (including a baseline assessment); b) the objectives and outcomes of the subsidence management plan; c) a risk assessment that identifies all potential impacts on the watercourse and associated floodplain resulting from subsidence of the watercourse; d) the measures to be implemented to avoid, minimise and mitigate each potential impact; e) a monitoring, maintenance and evaluation program that: i. details the level of effectiveness of the measures using indicators and success criteria; ii. includes the annual review of success and appropriateness of measures; and iii. details how improvements will be implemented where success criteria are not met. f) consideration of cumulative impacts on the Isaac River from upstream activities; g) consideration of impacts on groundwater as a result of subsidence of the watercourse; h) an action plan to address the outcomes and recommendations from annual inspections.
- J4
The Subsidence Management Plan must be assessed and certified by an independent, third party, suitably qualified and experienced person, that the plan is compliant in all respects with this environmental authority.
- J5
Subsidence of the Isaac River within longwall panel LW11 onwards must not commence until: a) the administering authority has received a copy of the certified subsidence management plan; and b) the subsidence management plan has been implemented.
- J6
The administering authority may, within twenty-eight (28) days of receiving the certified Subsidence Management Plan as required by condition J5, provide comments in respect to the submitted plan. Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine)
- J7
All comments made by the administering authority under condition J6 must be considered and incorporated into the Subsidence Management Plan within twenty-eight (28) days of receipt of the comments, and the plan be re-submitted to the administering authority.
- J8
Annual inspection Each subsided longwall panel and the full extent of the Isaac River must be inspected annually by a suitably qualified and experienced person in accordance with the following minimum requirements: a) report on the condition of the bed and banks of the watercourse; b) report on ground cover (%) and pasture biomass (kg/ha) in the riparian zone; c) a comparison of the bed depths, and bank widths from the previous inspection, to determine the overall soil loss from the subsided areas of the Isaac River, and the mitigation measures to be implemented to minimise further soil loss; d) assess the structural, geotechnical and hydraulic adequacy of the subsided longwall panels; e) assess the adequacy of all mitigation measures with respect to the subsidence management plan and any previous annual inspection; and, f) detail any recommended mitigation measures or rehabilitation requirements to be undertaken.
- J9
After each annual inspection, a copy of a report including any recommendations, certified by an independent, third party, suitably qualified and experienced person, must be provided to the administering authority within two (2) months of completion.
- J10
Any recommended mitigation measure, as identified in the annual inspection, must be implemented prior to 1 November of the year that the recommendation was given, unless otherwise agreed to by the administering authority.
- J11
If the mitigation measures recommended in the annual inspections are not implemented, no further subsidence of the Isaac River is permitted until the measures are completed, unless otherwise agreed to by the administering authority.
- J12
The Subsidence Management Plan must be reviewed and updated to address any recommendations detailed in the annual inspection reports.
- J13
Initial operational repair of cracks and drainage works within the subsided areas of the Isaac River must be undertaken progressively in accordance with the Subsidence Management Plan as developed per condition J3. END OF CONDITIONS Permit Environmental Authority EPML00853413 Goonyella Riverside Broadmeadow Mine (GRB Mine) 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. Acid rock drainage means any contaminated discharge 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 mining activity. Administering authority is the agency or department that administers the environmental authority provisions under the Environmental Protection Act 1994. Airblast overpressure means energy transmitted from the blast site within the atmosphere in the form of pressure waves. The maximum excess pressure in this wave, above ambient pressure is the peak airblast overpressure measured in decibels linear (dBL). Alternative arrangement in relation to a sensitive place or a commercial place, means: a) A written agreement: i. between the environmental authority holder and a third party; ii. that identifies a particular type(s) of environmental nuisance; iii. about the way in which the particular environmental nuisance impact(s) will be dealt with; iv. at a particular location; and v. for a defined period of time. b) An alternative arrangement must make clear to the third party that by entering in to the agreement that: i. their place will be excluded as a sensitive place or commercial place; and ii. the consequences of exclusion as a sensitive place or commercial place. Note: An alternative arrangement may include, but is not limited to, details of the nuisance abatement measures to be implemented, provision of alternative accommodation, or agreement between the parties that the location will not be considered a sensitive place or commercial place for the purposes of the Environmental Authority, for the duration of the alternative arrangement. The written agreement may be in any form, with some examples being a lease, or an agistment, or a conduct and compensation agreement under the Mineral Resources Act 1989. Annual exceedance probability or AEP means the probability that at least one event in excess of a particular magnitude will occur in any given year. Annual inspection report means an assessment prepared by a suitably qualified and experienced person containing details of the assessment against the most recent consequence assessment report and design plan (or system design plan): a) against recommendations contained in previous annual inspections reports; b) against recognised dam safety deficiency indicators; c) for changes in circumstances potentially leading to a change in consequence category; d) for conformance with the conditions of this authority; e) for conformance with the `as constructed' drawings; f) for the adequacy of the available storage in each regulated dam, 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 dam (or network of linked containment systems); and g) for evidence of conformance with the current operational plan.