Blasting Information Session

As part of SGM’s commitment to keeping the community informed, Stawell Gold Mines held two community engagement events in July 2016.

Independent blasting expert Dr Heilig was invited to these events as he was undertaking a review of SGM’s blasting program in response to the recommendations from the Ministerial Inquiry handed down in early April 2016.

Dr Heilig shared his review with the community and gathered feedback from community members regarding community amenity. Additionally, the presentation and review included what blasting is, the impacts of blasting, best practice and national standards, as well as SGM’s current monitoring program and processes. Earth Resources Regulation Victoria (ERRV) were also invited and attended the event.

Dr Heilig’s review entitled Review of Ministerial Report concluded that;

• SGM is compliant with mining licence conditions and monitoring requirements
• Licence conditions align with Australian Standards and world leading practices
• Current operations under licence conditions will not cause structural damage to buildings or homes
• Amenity is taken into consideration for blast design by SGM