The development of the Rogetta iron ore mine in north-western Tasmania has just been approved under the national environment law and is set to majorly boost local employment rates.
The Rogetta mine which is located roughly seven kilometres south-east of Hampshire is an example of a resources development which is economically beneficial and environmentally sustainable. Forward Mining Limited will own and operate the mine. The development of the Rogetta iron ore mine encompasses the extraction and processing of iron ore for trucking and export via Burnie Port. The proponent will also spend up to $100 million to develop and maintain the mine. The sale of its products is set to bring in export revenues of up to $90-100 million each year. Currently, there is one open cut pit planned that will produce approximately 1 million tonnes of iron ore per year with a projected mine life of seven years.
This project was approved following a comprehensive environmental assessment in conjunction with the Tasmanian Government. The Rogetta mine is also situated to deliver significant economic and social benefits to Tasmania at local, regional, and state levels, including the creation of approximately 200 jobs during the construction phase, and the growth of up to 100 permanent positions during the operational phase. This approval is subject to strict conditions to protect nationally significant species.
Forward Mining Limited has been given the green-light to develop the mine as long as they abide by the strict measures to prevent local animals such as the endangered wedge-tailed eagles from colliding with power lines. They also need to maintain financial support for the ‘Save the Tasmanian Devil Program’ and the ‘Tasmanian Land Conservancy’ to provide positive outcomes for the endangered Tasmanian Devil and the vulnerable spotted-tailed Quoll.
Forward Mining Limited can now go ahead and develop the mine which involves open cut mining of iron ore, on-site processing and trucking of the refined ore to Burnie for export.