The need to continue investing in the economic development of the Upper Hunter region was one of the leading issues discussed at the recent Upper Hunter Mining Dialogue Workshop.

The Upper Hunter Mining Dialogue was established in 2010 to encourage deeper conversations about how local miners and the community can work better together.

More than 70 people from industry, government, business and the community attended a day-long workshop in Muswellbrook in December to assess the progress of the Dialogue over the past twelve months, to share their feedback and plan the strategy for 2015.

Participants heard from state government representatives at the Environment Protection Authority, Division of Resources and Energy and Department of Planning and Environment about mine compliance requirements and mining policy developments.

 

The group developed a number of ideas for dealing with air quality issues, rehabilitation and the future use of mined land, social impacts and improving both government and community relations and communication. This builds upon the efforts already underway in these areas, such as the Housing Study, Weather Forecasting Project and Hunter River Water Quality Assessment.

The day was a success, with attendees praising the effectiveness of the Dialogue to date.

“I was quite surprised at how much work had been achieved and the real difference [the Dialogue] was making. Hearing from some of the Government Departments clarified the processes, and the research and changes they are doing is encouraging. I think we had a really successful “think tank” in the afternoon session and I really look forward to bringing some of those ideas along with the solid work already achieved,” said Gill Eason from the Singleton Chamber of Commerce and Industry.