A DOZEN Deua River dwellers have issued a statement saying they are gravely concerned at a proposal to process gold in the headwaters of Moruya’s water supply.
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The Deua Rivercare group held its Christmas party on Saturday, but member Alison Walsh said the talk was far from festive.
“The main discussion involved the Unity Mining proposal to expand the original development at the Dargues Reef Mine at Majors Creek to include onsite chemical processing of ore, including cyanide leeching,” Ms Walsh said.
“The group has grave concerns about on-site impact, and the potential for contamination of the water ways.
“The waterways are all catchment for the Deua River and therefore drinking water for Moruya and surrounds.
“The company has a very poor track record at the site, with two sediment spills from rain events.
“Their planning is for usual weather events, which are becoming more unusual in recent years.
“Events such as our 210mm rainfall on Saturday are beyond their capacity to manage and, therefore, the risk of contamination seems very high.”
The group has urged residents to attend the mine’s December 17 information session, between 2pm and 7pm at Moruya’s Luhana Motel.
“A large showing from the community to discuss their concerns would be an appropriate message to the company,” Ms Walsh said.
