Proposal for mine exploration licence between Wangaratta and Beechworth to be re-advertised

Bendigo-based Ironbark Mining submitted an application to commence a search between Eldorado and Carboor for gold, diamonds, molybdenum and other metals such as copper, lead and zinc.

Land around other townships such as Tarrawingee, Everton, Markwood, Milawa and Oxley are also included in the proposal.

The process began in October, 2020, but was only recently brought to light in August when published in the public notices of North East newspaper Wangaratta Chronicle.

Earth Resources Regulation confirmed on Thursday Wangaratta Council had been informed of the new advertisement, which won't differ from the initial proposal in terms of its exploration requirements.

Eldorado has a significant mining history, but it's the first major proposed exploration of the area since 1985.

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When contacted by The Border Mail on Thursday, Ironbark Mining general manager Jason Fothergill said he would be reluctant to comment further on the request until it has been advertised again.

Any objections from the land holders in the exploration area will carry over to the proposal as Ironbark Mining is not reapplying with a new tenement number.

The closing date has been extended to September 27.

Eldorado farmer Natasha Lobban is concerned by a lack of communication for the proposal and hopes the tone hasn't been set for future correspondence.

"I'm glad they're being forced to follow the rules, I only wish it was done properly in the first place," she said.

"Open, honest discussions and following the letter of the law is always a better way forward."

Member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy has grave fears regarding the exploration application.

"That silence, when community consultation is so vital, really makes me wonder what they have to hide," Mr McCurdy said.

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