Data as at 14 September 2026 · from the Queensland EP Act public register
EPML00712313 · South Walker Creek Mine
Coal environmental authority EPML00712313 (South Walker Creek Mine), Granted. 164 conditions indexed. Holds PRC plan P-PRCP-100948762.
- Status
- Granted
- Holders
- STANMORE SMC PTY LTD
- Tenures
- ML4750; ML70131
- PRC plan
- P-PRCP-100948762 · effective 2026-07-22
- How it was read
- Numbered conditions
- Register
- Register record · Instrument PDF
Conditions
164 numbered conditions read from the current instrument. Page numbers link into the register PDF.
- A1
This environmental authority authorises environmental harm referred to in the conditions. Where there is no condition or this environmental authority is silent on a matter, the lack of a condition or silence does not authorise environmental harm.
- A2
Prevent and /or minimise likelihood of environmental harm In carrying out the environmentally relevant activities, the environmental authority holder must take all reasonable and practicable measures to prevent and/or to minimise the likelihood of environmental harm being caused. Any environmentally relevant activity, that, if carried out incompetently, or negligently, may cause environmental harm, in a manner that could have been prevented, shall be carried out in a proper manner in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- A3
Maintenance of measures, plant and equipment The environmental authority holder must ensure: a) that all measures, plant and equipment necessary to ensure compliance with the conditions of this environmental authority are installed; b) that such measures, plant and equipment are maintained in a proper condition; c) that such measures, plant and equipment are operated in a proper manner; and d) that all instruments and devices used for the measurement or monitoring of any parameter under any condition of this environmental authority are properly calibrated.
- A4
Monitoring and records Except where specified otherwise in another condition of this environmental authority, all monitoring records and reports required by this environmental authority must be kept for a period of not less than five (5) years.
- A5
Monitoring and determinations required under any condition of this environmental authority must be conducted by an appropriately qualified person(s).
- A6
Upon request from the administering authority, copies of monitoring results, records, registers, management plans and reports required by the conditions of this environmental authority must be made available and provided to the administering authority within ten (10) business days or an alternative timeframe agreed between the administering authority and the environmental authority holder.
- A7
Notification of emergencies, incidents and exceptions The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority by written notification within twenty-four (24) hours after becoming aware of any emergency or incident that results in the release of contaminants not in accordance, or reasonably expected to be not in accordance, with the conditions of this environmental authority. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- A8
Within ten (10) business days following the initial notification under condition A7, or the receipt of monitoring results associated with the notification made under condition A7, whichever is the latter, the environmental authority holder must provide further written advice to the administering authority, including the following: a) results and interpretation of any samples taken and analysed; b) outcomes of actions taken at the time to prevent or minimise unlawful environmental harm; and c) proposed actions to prevent a recurrence of the emergency or incident.
- A9
Complaints The environmental authority holder must record all environmental complaints received about the mining activities, including: a) name, address and contact number for of the complainant; b) time and date of complaint; c) reasons for the complaint; d) investigations undertaken; e) conclusions formed; f) actions taken to resolve the complaint, including the use of appropriate dispute resolution if required; g) any abatement measures implemented; and h) person responsible for resolving the complaint.
- A10
A register of alternative arrangements must be established and maintained by the environmental authority holder. The register must include: a) the location to which the alternative arrangement applies; b) the period of the alternative arrangement; c) details about the particular environmental nuisance impact or impacts the arrangement is for; and d) details about the mitigation measures, where relevant.
- A11
Monitoring on request When requested by the administering authority, the environmental authority holder must investigate any nuisance, or contaminant release, or environmental harm, or complaint that is neither frivolous nor vexatious in the opinion of the authorised person, by: a) undertaking the monitoring specified by the administering authority; b) undertaking the monitoring in the timeframe nominated or agreed to by the administering authority; c) completing an analysis and interpretation of the monitoring results; and d) implementing abatement measures, where required. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- A12
The results of the investigation undertaken in accordance with condition A11 must be provided to the administering authority within twenty (20) business days of completion of the monitoring timeframe in accordance with condition A11(b), or a longer timeframe agreed to by the administering authority.
- A13
Coal extraction rate The environmental authority holder is approved for a coal extraction rate of up to nine-point four (9.4) million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of run-of-mine (ROM) ore in accordance with this environmental authority. The measurement basis is specified as 1 July to 30 June in the following year.
- A14
Authorised disturbance Surface disturbance by mining activities is authorised within areas marked "Approved Surface Disturbance Area" in Figure 1 (Approved Disturbance Areas).
- A15
Sub-surface disturbance by mining activities is authorised within areas marked as "Approved Subsurface Disturbance Area" in Figure 1 (Approved Disturbance Areas).
- A16
Any disturbance outside of the areas marked "Approved Surface Disturbance Area" in Figure 1 (Approved Disturbance Areas): a) is only authorised to the extent reasonably necessary for minor infrastructure; and b) must not result in significant residual impact to prescribed environmental matters.
- A17
Activities authorised by condition A16 must not exceed a total surface disturbance area of fifteen (15) hectares at any one time.
- A18
Disturbance authorised within the areas marked "Multi Year Exploration Program Extent in Figure 2 (Multi Year Exploration Program and Gas Drainage Project) is limited to: a) exploration activities; and b) minor infrastructure;
- A19
Activities authorised by condition A18 (a) and (b) must not exceed a total surface disturbance area of twenty-five (25) hectares at any one time.
- A20
Surface disturbance authorised within the area marked "Tailings Dewatering Area OR Y-South Dump Area" in Figure 1 (Approved Disturbance Areas) is limited to: a) activities necessary for the construction, operation and rehabilitation of tailings dewatering infrastructure at the location specified in Figure 5; OR b) activities necessary for the construction, operation and rehabilitation of Y-South Dump at the location specified in Figure 6; and c) minor infrastructure. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- A21
Disturbance authorised within areas marked "Gas Drainage Project" and "Proposed Powerline Corridor from Power Station to Mine" in Figure 2 (Multi Year Exploration Program and Gas Drainage Project) is limited to: a) Exploration activities; and b) Gas drainage wells and associated water and gas pipelines; and c) Other associated infrastructure and facilities.
- A22
Activities authorised by Condition A21 must not exceed a total surface disturbance area of fifty (50) hectares at any one time. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Schedule B: Air Condition Condition number
- B1
Odour nuisance The release of noxious or offensive odour or any other noxious or offensive airborne contaminant resulting from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- B2
If the administering authority determines odour released from the mining activities to constitute an environmental nuisance, the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance.
- B3
Dust nuisance The release of dust or particulate matter or both resulting from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- B4
The EA holder must ensure that the air emissions generated by the mining activities do not cause exceedances of the following limits when measured at any sensitive place or commercial place: a) dust deposition, measured as total insoluble matter, of 120 milligrams per square metre per day, averaged over one month, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of Australian Standard AS3580.10.1 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of particulate matter - Deposited matter - Gravimetric method. b) a concentration of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10 micrometre (PM10) suspended in the atmosphere of 50 micrograms per cubic metre over a 24-hour averaging time, when monitored in accordance with the most recent version of either: i. Australian Standard AS3580.9.6 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 high volume sampler with size selective inlet - Gravimetric method; or ii. Australian Standard AS3580.9.8 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 continuous direct mass method using a tapered element oscillating microbalance analyser; or iii. Australian Standard AS3580.9.9 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 low volume sampler - Gravimetric method; or iv. Australian Standard AS3580.9.11 Methods for sampling and analysis of ambient air - Determination of suspended particulate matter - PM10 beta attenuation monitors. NOTE: Exceedances due to events that cannot be managed by the environmental authority holder, such as bushfires, fuel reduction burning for fire management purposes or dust storms would not be considered to be in breach of condition
- B4
if the environmental authority holder can demonstrate that the exceedance was caused by such events. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- B5
If monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, indicates exceedance of the relevant limits in condition B4, the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance.
- B6
Continuous monitoring Continuous monitoring must be conducted in accordance with the standards and at the location specified in Table B1 (Monitoring location, parameters and methods).
- B7
The EA holder must ensure that the monitoring site identified as TBD in Table B1 (Monitoring location, parameters and methods) is installed and operational prior to 30 June 2027. Coordinates of the monitoring location must be provided to the administering authority within ten (10) business days of the installation. Table B1 (Monitoring location, parameters and methods) Monitoring Point Latitude (decimal Longitude (decimal Monitoring Monitoring Monitoring Method degree, GDA 2020) degree, GDA 2020) Parameter Frequency
- C1
Noise nuisance Noise from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C2
Noise is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C1 if monitoring shows that noise does not exceed the limits in Table C1 (Noise Limits), at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C3
Noise monitoring Noise monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, must comply with the most recent version of the administering authority's Noise Measurement Manual, and must include the following descriptors, characteristics and conditions: a) LA eq, adj, 15 mins; b) LA 1, adj, 15 mins; c) the level and frequency of occurrence of impulsive or tonal noise; d) atmospheric conditions including wind speed and direction; e) effects due to extraneous factors such as traffic noise; and f) location, date and time of recording.
- C4
If monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, indicates exceedance of the relevant limits in Table C1 (Noise Limits), the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Table C1 (Noise Limits) Monday to Saturday Sunday and Public Holidays Noise Level Day Evening Night Day Evening Night dB(A) (7am to 6pm) (6pm to 10pm) (10pm to 7am) (9am to 6pm) (6pm to 10pm) (10pm to 9am) Sensitive Place LA eq, adj, 15 mins CV = 50 CV = 45 CV = 40 CV = 45 CV = 40 CV = 35 LA1, adj, 15 mins AV = 5 AV = 5 AV = 0 AV = 5 AV = 5 AV = 0 CV = 55 CV = 50 CV = 45 CV = 50 CV = 45 CV = 40 AV = 10 AV = 10 AV = 5 AV = 10 AV = 10 AV = 5 Commercial Place LA eq, adj, 15 mins CV = 55 CV = 50 CV = 45 CV = 50 CV = 45 CV = 40 AV = 10 AV = 10 AV = 5 AV = 10 AV = 10 AV = 5 Noise limits notes: 2. CV = Critical Value 3. AV = Adjustment Value 4. To calculate noise limits in Table C1: If bg (CV - AV): Noise limit = bg + AV If (CV - AV) < bg CV: Noise limit = CV If bg > CV: Noise limit = bg + 0 5. In the event that measured bg (LA90, adj, 15 mins) is less than 30 dB(A), then 30 dB(A) can be substituted for the measured background level 6. bg = background noise level (LA90, adj, 15 mins) measured over 3-5 days at the nearest sensitive receptor 7. If the project is unable to meet the noise limits as calculated above alternative limits may be calculated using the processes outlined in the administering authority's "Planning for Noise Control" guideline and Noise Measurement Manual.
- C5
Vibration nuisance Vibration from the mining activities must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C6
Vibration is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C5 if monitoring shows that vibration does not exceed the limits specified in Table C2 (Vibration Limits).
- C7
Airblast overpressure nuisance The airblast overpressure level from blasting operations on the mining leases must not cause an environmental nuisance, at any sensitive place or commercial place.
- C8
Airblast overpressure is not considered an environmental nuisance under condition C7 if monitoring shows that airblast overpressure does not exceed the levels specified in Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level). Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- C9
Vibration and/or airblast overpressure monitoring Vibration and/or airblast overpressure monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, must comply with the most recent version of the administering authority's Noise Measurement Manual, and must include the following descriptors, characteristics and conditions: a) location of the blast(s) within the mining area (including which bench level); b) atmospheric conditions including temperature, relative humidity and wind speed and direction; and c) location, date and time of recording.
- C10
If monitoring, undertaken in accordance with condition A11, indicates exceedance of the relevant limits in Table C2 (Vibration Limits) or Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level), the environmental authority holder must immediately implement abatement measures so that emissions from the mining activities do not result in further environmental nuisance. Location Table C2 (Vibration Limits) Sensitive place or commercial place Vibration Measured 5 mm/s peak particle velocity for nine (9) out of ten (10) consecutive blasts and not greater than 10 mm/s peak particle velocity at any time. Table C3 (Airblast Overpressure Level) Location Airblast Overpressure Measured Sensitive place or commercial place 115 dB (Linear peak) for nine (9) out of ten (10) consecutive blasts and not greater than 120 dB (Linear peak) at any time. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Schedule D: Waste Condition Condition number
- D1
Waste management A Waste Management Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and implemented. The Waste Management Plan must include, but is not limited to: a) a description of the mining activities that may generate waste; b) a description of all waste activities being carried out; c) the location/s (including GPS coordinates) of where all waste activities are, or have been, carried out, including: i. the type of waste disposed of, treated, or reprocessed; and ii. the volume of waste disposed of, treated, or reprocessed; d) identification of the potential risks to the environment from all waste activities carried out; e) control strategies to be implemented to minimise the potential for environmental harm associated with carrying out the waste activities, including but not limited to: i. segregation of the wastes; ii. storage of the wastes; iii. transport of the wastes; and iv. monitoring and reporting matters concerning the wastes; f) how the waste will be managed in accordance with the waste management hierarchy (that is, avoid, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, disposal); g) the hazardous characteristics of the wastes generated including disposal procedures for hazardous wastes; h) procedures for managing accidents, spills and other incidents; i) the indicators or other criteria on which the performance of the waste management plan will be assessed; and j) staff training.
- D2
The environmental authority holder must submit the Waste Management Plan required by condition D1 to the administering authority prior to commencing a new process, or varying an existing process, for reprocessing any waste.
- D3
Waste receipt The only waste permitted to be received is: a) the types of waste specified in conditions D5 to D7 (inclusive); and b) sewage and sludge for treatment in accordance with Schedule H: Sewage Treatment; and c) from a Stanmore Resources site in Queensland. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- D4
Waste reprocessing The only waste permitted to be reprocessed is: a) spoil or overburden; b) vegetation; c) water or sediment containing hydrocarbons; d) fuels, oils, lubricants and coolants; e) bulk rubber; f) inert waste; g) poly-pipe and other plastic; h) fibreglass; i) treated and untreated timber; and j) asphalt.
- D5
Waste disposal Unless otherwise specified in conditions D6 and D7, waste, other than spoil or overburden or vegetation removed as part of the mining activity, must not be disposed of within the mining leases listed on this environmental authority and must be taken to a facility that is lawfully allowed to accept such waste under the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1994.
- D6
The following types of waste are permitted to be disposed of within the specified features for the waste type: a) rejects and sediment containing hydrocarbons: i. in spoil emplacements; and ii. in regulated structures in accordance with Schedule G: Structures of this environmental authority; and iii. in pits or voids; and iv. in dedicated rejects emplacements; and b) tailings and water or sediment containing hydrocarbons: i. in regulated structures in accordance with Schedule G: Structures of this environmental authority; and ii. in pits or voids that are not regulated structures, provided a consequence category assessment in accordance with condition G1 has been completed.
- D7
The following types of waste are permitted to be disposed of within the mining leases listed on this environmental authority: a) bulk rubber; b) inert waste; c) poly-pipe and other plastic; d) fibreglass; e) treated and untreated timber; f) asphalt; and Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine g) asbestos. These types of waste may be disposed of: a) in pits or voids; b) in spoil emplacements; and c) left in-situ below ground level. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Schedule E: Land Condition Condition number
- E1
Topsoil Topsoil must be strategically stripped ahead of mining in accordance with a Topsoil Management Plan.
- E2
A topsoil inventory, which identifies the topsoil requirements for rehabilitation and availability of suitable topsoil on site, must be provided with any Estimated Rehabilitation Cost application.
- E3
Rehabilitation Progressive rehabilitation of all disturbance must be carried out in accordance with the approved Progressive Rehabilitation and Closure Plan (PRCP) schedule P-PRCP-100948762 for this environmental authority.
- E4
Preventing contaminant release to land Contaminants must not be released to land in manner that constitutes a nuisance, material harm or serious environmental harm.
- E5
Storage and handling of chemicals and flammable or combustible liquids All chemicals and flammable or combustible liquids must be stored and handled in accordance with the most recent version of an Australian Standard where such is applicable. Where no relevant Australian Standard exists, store such materials within an effective on-site containment system.
- E6
Surrender The holder must meet the conditions and the rehabilitation milestones under the PRCP schedule P-PRCP-100948762 prior to the surrender of the environmental authority
- E7
Exploration Exploration activities authorised by condition A18 (a) which are conducted within the areas marked "Multi-Year Exploration Program Extent" in Figure 2 (Multi year Exploration Program and Gas Drainage Project) must meet the following requirements: a) drill pads must be located in existing cleared areas or on the margins of vegetated areas where practicable; b) drill pads must be located adjacent to existing access tracks where practicable; c) the width of new access tracks must not exceed 4.5m; d) all exploration-related disturbance must avoid mature vegetation and hollow-bearing trees where practicable; e) all infrastructure and disturbance associated with the exploration activities must be rehabilitated in accordance with the approved PRCP schedule P-PRCP-100948762 for this environmental authority. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- E8
Impacts to Prescribed Environmental Matters Significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters, other than if the impacts were authorised by an existing authority issued before the commencement of the Environmental Offsets Act 2014, are not authorised under this environmental authority or the Environmental Offsets Act 2014 unless the impact(s) is specified in Table E2 (Impacts to Prescribed Environmental Matters).
- E9
All authorised impacts to prescribed environmental matters must be recorded in Table E1 (Impacts to Prescribed Environmental Matters).
- E10
An environmental offset made in accordance with the Environmental Offsets Act 2014, must be undertaken for the significant residual impacts to each prescribed environmental matter authorised in Table E1 (Impacts to Prescribed Environmental Matters) and depicted in Figure 3 (Ground-truthed Regulated Vegetation and Regional Ecosystems), Figure 4 (Significant Residual Impacts on MSES), Figure 7 (Authorised Significant Residual Impact on MSES - Northern Section), Figure 8 (Authorised Significant Residual Impact - Eastern Section) and Figure 9 (Authorised Significant Residual Impact - Southern Section).
- E11
The significant residual impacts to prescribed environmental matters authorised in Condition E8 for which an environmental offset is required by Condition E10, may be carried out in stages. An environmental offset can be delivered for each stage of the impacts to prescribed environmental matters.
- E12
Prior to the commencement of each stage, a report completed by an appropriately qualified person, that includes an analysis of the following must be provided to the administering authority: a) for the forthcoming stage - the estimated significant residual impacts to each prescribed environmental matter; and b) for the previous stage, if applicable - the actual significant residual impacts to each prescribed environmental matter, to date.
- E13
The report required by Condition E12 must be approved by the administering authority before a notice of election for the forthcoming stage, if applicable, is given to the administering authority.
- E14
A notice of election for the staged environmental offset referred to in Condition E11, if applicable, must be provided to the administering authority no less than three (3) months before the proposed commencement of that stage, unless a lesser timeframe has been agreed to by the administering authority.
- E15
Within six (6) months from the completion of the final stage, a report completed by an appropriately qualified person, that includes the following matters must be provided to the administering authority: a) an analysis of the actual impacts on prescribed environmental matters resulting from the final stage; and b) if applicable, a notice of election to address any outstanding offset debits for the authorised impacts. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- E16
Records demonstrating that each impact to a prescribed environmental matter not listed as an authorised significant residual impact in Table E1 (Impacts to Prescribed Environmental Matters) did not, or is not likely to, result in a significant residual impact to that matter must be: a) completed by an appropriately qualified person; and b) kept for the life of the environmental authority. Table E1 (Impacts to Prescribed Environmental Matters) Prescribed Environmental Authorised Authorised Authorised Environmental Matter Maximum Maximum Extent Location of Offset Required Extent of Significant Regulated vegetation Impact (ha) of Significant Residual Impact Residual Endangered regional ecosystem - 11.4.9 (ha) Impact Endangered regional 16.62 10.4 Figures 4, 7, 8 & Yes ecosystem - 11.4.9/11.5.3 71.9 Endangered regional 0.12 9 ecosystem - 11.5.3/11.4.9 1.49 71.9 Figure 10 ("Project Yes Area") N/A N/A No N/A N/A No Endangered regional 19.1 19.1 Figures 3, 7, 8 & Yes ecosystem - 11.9.5 9 0.62 0.02 Figures 7, 8 & 9 No Of concern regional ecosystem - 11.3.1 1.0 1.0 Figure 10 ("Project Yes Area") 6.92 6.5 Figures 4, 7, 8 & Yes Of concern regional 9 ecosystem - 11.3.4 3.5 3.5 Figure 10 ("Project Yes Area") Of concern regional 0.1 0.1 Figures 7, 8 & 9 No ecosystem - 11.3.4a Of concern regional 3.88 3.5 Figures 7, 8 & 9 Yes ecosystem - 11.3.2 Of concern regional 11.52 N/A N/A No ecosystem - 11.3.4/11.3.2 Of concern regional 14.14 N/A N/A No ecosystem - 11.5.3/11.3.4
- F1
Contaminant Release Contaminants that will or have the potential to cause environmental harm must not be released directly or indirectly to any waters as a result of the mining activities, except as permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority.
- F2
Unless otherwise permitted under the conditions of this environmental authority, the release of mine affected water to waters must only occur from the release points specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F3
The release of mine affected water to internal water management infrastructure that is installed and operated in accordance with a Water Management Plan that complies with conditions F31 to
- F35
inclusive is permitted. Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) Release Easting Northing Mine Affected Water Monitoring Point Receiving Waters Point (GDA94) (GDA94) Source and Location Description (RP) 7592715 648481 7591838 Ramp F Dam Dam spillway or Bee Creek (via Walker
- F4
The release of mine affected water to waters in accordance with condition F2 must not exceed the release limits stated in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) when measured at the monitoring points specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) for each quality characteristic. Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Release Limit Monitoring Frequency 1 Comment Electrical Conductivity Release limit specified in Daily during release (the (-S/cm) Table F4 for variable flow first sample must be taken within 2 hours or as soon as criteria. practicable of commencement of release) pH Release limit specified in Daily during release (the (pH units) Table F4 for variable flow first sample must be taken within 2 hours or as soon as criteria. practicable of commencement of release) Turbidity 2 500 Daily during release (the Turbidity is required to (NTU) first sample must be taken assess ecosystem impacts within 2 hours or as soon as and can provide practicable of instantaneous results. commencement of release) At commencement and prior Suspended solids are Suspended Solids * N/A to cessation of release (at a required to measure the (mg/L) minimum) and weekly performance of erosion and during release. sediment control measures. Sulphate (SO42-) Release limit specified in At commencement and prior Drinking water (mg/L) Table F4 for variable flow to cessation of release (at a environmental values from NHMRC 2006 guidelines or criteria. minimum) and weekly during release. ANZECC. NOTES: * Limit for suspended solids can be omitted if turbidity limit is included. Limit for turbidity not required if suspended solids limit included. Both indicators should be measured in all cases. 1 While all endeavours are taken to collect the necessary data, manual sampling work will not be conducted in the event of unsafe access to locations or infrastructure. Should such access limitations arise, the administering authority will be notified as soon as practicable. 2 Insufficient historical analysis of suspended solid concentration prevents the establishment of a site-specific trigger. Future monitoring of suspended solid concentrations will enable a trigger level to be determined. Turbidity is proposed to be used as a surrogate in the interim.
- F5
The release of mine affected water to waters from the release points must be monitored at the locations specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points) for each quality characteristic and at the frequency specified in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) and Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels). NOTE: the administering authority will take into consideration any extenuating circumstances prior to determining an appropriate enforcement response in the event condition F5 is contravened due to a temporary lack of safe or practical access. The administering authority expects the environmental authority holder to take all reasonable and practicable measures to maintain safe and practical access to designated monitoring locations. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) Quality Characteristic Trigger Comment of Trigger Level Monitoring Level Frequency (-g/L) Aluminium 265 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Arsenic 13 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Chromium 1 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Copper 3 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS Iron 300 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on low reliability guideline Lead 4 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Zinc 8 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Boron 370 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Commencement Molybdenum 34 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on low reliability of release and Silver guideline thereafter weekly during 1 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS release Uranium 1.3 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS Vanadium 10 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on LOR for ICPMS Ammonia 900 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on SMD guideline Nitrate 1100 For aquatic ecosystem protection, based on ambient Qld WQ Guidelines (2006) for TN Petroleum hydrocarbons (C10-C36) 100 Fluoride (total) 2000 Protection of livestock and short-term guideline
- F6
If quality characteristics of the release exceed any of the trigger levels specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) during a release event, the environmental authority holder must compare the downstream results in the receiving waters to the trigger values specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) and: (1) where the trigger values are not exceeded then no action is to be taken; or (2) where the downstream results exceed the trigger values specified in Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels) for any quality characteristic, compare the results of the downstream site to the data from background monitoring sites and; (a) if the result is less than the background monitoring site data, then no action is to be taken; or (b) if the result is greater than the background monitoring site data, complete an investigation into the potential for environmental harm and provide a written report to the administering authority in the next annual return, outlining: i. details of the investigations carried out; and ii. actions taken to prevent environmental harm. NOTE: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated, in accordance with condition F6(2)(b), no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic.
- F7
If an exceedance in accordance with condition F6(2)(b) is identified, the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the result.
- F8
Mine Affected Water Release Events The environmental authority holder must ensure a stream flow gauging station(s) is installed, operated and maintained to determine and record stream flows at the locations and flow recording frequency specified in Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events).
- F9
Notwithstanding any other condition of this environmental authority, the release of mine affected water to waters in accordance with condition F2 must only take place during periods of natural flow events in accordance with the receiving water flow criteria for discharge specified in Table
- F4
(Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events) for the release point(s) specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F10
The release of mine affected water to waters in accordance with condition F2 must not exceed the pH, Electrical Conductivity and Sulphate release limits or the Maximum Release Rate (for all combined release point flows) for each receiving water flow criteria for discharge specified in Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events) when measured at the monitoring points specified in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F11
The daily quantity of mine affected water released from each release point must be measured and recorded at the monitoring points in Table F1 (Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F12
Releases to waters must be undertaken so as not to cause erosion of the bed and banks of the receiving waters or cause a material build-up of sediment in such waters. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Table F4 (Mine Affected Water Release During Flow Events) Receiving Release Gauging Gauging Gauging Receiving Receiving Maximum Electrical Conductivity and Sulphate waters Point Station Station Station Water Flow Water Flow Release Release Limits Northing Recording Criteria for Rate (RP) Easting (GDA94) Frequency Discharge (for all (GDA94) 7594944 Daily as a (m3/s) combined minimum RP flows) (continuous Bee Creek All release Bee Creek 657731 monitoring Low Flow < 1.5 m3/s Electrical conductivity: 700 -S/cm via Walker where pH: 6.5(min) to 9.2(max) Creek and points Upstream possible) <3.5 m3/s for a Sulphate (SO42-): 250 mg/L Sandy period of 28 Creek (RP1 to Monitoring days after RP6, RP8 Point natural flow events that and RP9) (MP4) exceed 3.5 m3/s Medium Flow < 1.3 m3/s Electrical conductivity: 1,500 -S/cm (Low) pH: 6.5(min) to 9.2(max) > 3.5 m3/s Sulphate (SO42-): 500 mg/L < 0.6 m3/s Electrical conductivity: 2,500 -S/cm pH: 6.5(min) to 9.2(max) Sulphate (SO42-): 500 mg/L < 0.4 m3/s Electrical conductivity: 3,500 -S/cm pH: 6.5(min) to 9.2(max) Sulphate (SO42-): 500 mg/L Medium Flow < 3.6 m3/s Electrical conductivity: 1,500 -S/cm (High) pH: 6.5(min) to 9.2(max) > 10.0 m3/s 2- Sulphate (SO4 ): 750 mg/L < 1.7 m3/s Electrical conductivity: 2,500 -S/cm pH: 6.5(min) to 9.2(max) Sulphate (SO42-): 750 mg/L < 1.1 m3/s Electrical conductivity: 3,500 -S/cm pH: 6.5(min) to 9.2(max) Sulphate (SO42-): 750 mg/L
- F13
Notification of release event The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority via WaTERS as soon as practicable and no later than twenty-four (24) hours after commencing to release mine affected water to the receiving environment. The release commencement notification must include the submission of written advice to the administering authority of the following information: a) release commencement date and time; b) expected release cessation date and time; c) release point(s); d) release rate; e) receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; and f) any details (including available data) regarding likely impacts on the receiving water(s).
- F14
The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority via WaTERS as soon as practicable and no later than twenty-four (24) hours after cessation of a release event notified under condition F13. The release cessation notification must include the submission of written advice to the administering authority of the following information: a) release cessation date and time; b) receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; and c) volume of water released. NOTE: Successive or intermittent releases occurring within twenty-four (24) hours of the cessation of any individual release can be considered part of a single release event and do not require individual notification for the purpose of compliance with conditions F13 and F14 and F15, provided the relevant details of the release are included within the notification provided in accordance with conditions F13 and F14 and F15.
- F15
Within twenty-eight (28) days of notification under condition F14, the environmental authority holder must provide the administrating authority via WaTERS the following information in writing: a) confirmation of: i. the release commencement date and time; ii. the release cessation date and time; iii. receiving water(s) including the natural flow rate; iv. volume of water released; b) all in-situ and laboratory water quality monitoring results; c) details regarding the compliance of the release with the conditions of Schedule F: Water of this environmental authority (i.e., contamination limits, natural flow, discharge volume); d) whether the release of water resulted in any impacts to the receiving environment; and e) any other matter(s) pertinent to the water release event.
- F16
Notification of release event exceedance If the release limits defined in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) are exceeded, the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving the results. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- F17
The environmental authority holder must, within twenty-eight (28) days of the notification provided in accordance with condition F16, provide a report to the administering authority via WaTERS detailing: a) the reason for the release; b) the location of the release; c) the total volume of the release and which (if any) part of this volume was non-compliant; d) the total duration of the release and which (if any) part of this period was non-compliant; e) all water quality monitoring results; f) any general observations; g) all calculations; and h) any other matters pertinent to the water release event.
- F18
Monitoring of Water Storage Quality Where practicable, the environmental authority holder must implement measures to prevent access by livestock to water storages which are associated with the release points listed in Table
- F1
(Mine Affected Water Release Points).
- F19
Receiving Environment Monitoring and Contaminant Trigger Levels The quality of the receiving waters must be monitored at the locations specified in Table F6 (Receiving Water Upstream Background and Downstream Monitoring Points) for each quality characteristic and at the monitoring frequency stated in Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) and Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels).
- F20
If quality characteristic(s) of the receiving water at the downstream monitoring point MP9 exceed any of the trigger levels specified in Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) during a release event the environmental authority holder must compare the downstream results to the upstream results in the receiving waters and: (1) where the downstream result is the same or a lower value than the upstream value for the quality characteristic then no action is to be taken; or (2) where the downstream results exceed the upstream results, complete an investigation into the potential for environmental harm and provide a written report to the administering authority in the next annual return, outlining: (a) details of the investigations carried out; and (b) actions taken to prevent environmental harm. NOTE: Where an exceedance of a trigger level has occurred and is being investigated in accordance with F20(2) of this condition, no further reporting is required for subsequent trigger events for that quality characteristic. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Table F5 (Receiving Waters Contaminant Trigger Levels) Quality Characteristic Trigger Level Monitoring Frequency3 pH 6.5 to 8.5 Daily during the release (the first (pH units) 1000 sample must be taken within 2 hours 750 Electrical Conductivity or as soon as practicable of (-S/cm) commencement of release) Turbidity (NTU) Suspended Solids TBA1 (mg/L) Sulphate (SO42-) At commencement and prior to (mg/L) 250 cessation of release (at a minimum) and weekly during a release Sodium TBA2 (mg/L) NOTES: 1 Insufficient historical analysis of suspended solid concentration prevents the establishment of a site-specific trigger. Future monitoring of suspended solid concentrations will enable a trigger level to be determined. Turbidity is proposed to be used as a surrogate in the interim. 2 Insufficient analysis of sodium concentration prevents the establishment of a site-specific trigger. Future monitoring of sodium concentrations will enable a trigger level to be determined. 3 While all endeavours are taken to collect the necessary data, manual sampling work will not be conducted in the event of unsafe access to locations or infrastructure. Should such access limitations arise, the administering authority will be notified as soon as practicable.
- MP1
Walker Creek - 4280m upstream of the confluence of Walker 641120 7597269 Creek and Carborough Creek
- MP4
Bee Creek - 1500m upstream of the confluence of Bee Creek 657731 7594944 and Walker Creek Downstream Monitoring Points
- MP7
Walker Creek - 130m upstream from Hail Creek Mine railway 653664 7592524 spur
- MP8
Sandy Creek - 1350m upstream of the confluence of Sandy 655726 7587589 Creek and Bee Creek
- MP9
Bee Creek - 3600m downstream of the confluence of Bee 657687 7584892 Creek and Sandy Creek NOTES: 1 Requires only in situ samples taken using electronic sampling equipment. Data obtained from MP1, MP7 and MP8 are for information purposes only, and is not subject to condition F20. (a) The upstream monitoring point should be within 2km of the release point (Walker Creek confluence with Bee Creek). (b) The downstream point should not be greater than 4km from the release point (Sandy Creek confluence with Bee Creek). (c) The data from background monitoring points must not be used where they are affected by releases from other mines. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- F21
Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) The environmental authority holder must develop and implement a Receiving Environment Monitoring Program (REMP) to monitor, identify and describe any adverse impacts to surface water environmental values, quality and flows due to the authorised mining activity. This must include monitoring the effects of the mine on the receiving environment periodically (under natural flow conditions) and while mine affected water is being discharged from the site. For the purposes of the REMP, the receiving environment is the waters of the Bee Creek and connected or surrounding waterways within fifteen (15) kilometres downstream of the release. The REMP should encompass any sensitive receiving waters or environmental values downstream of the authorised mining activity that will potentially be directly affected by an authorised release of mine affected water.
- F22
The REMP must: a) assess the condition or state of receiving waters, including upstream conditions, spatially within the REMP area, considering background water quality characteristics based on accurate and reliable monitoring data that takes into consideration temporal variation (e.g., seasonality); b) be designed to facilitate assessment against water quality objectives for the relevant environmental values that need to be protected; c) include monitoring from background reference sites (e.g., upstream or background) and downstream sites from the release (as a minimum, the locations specified in Table F6 (Receiving Water Upstream Background and Downstream Monitoring Points)); d) specify the frequency and timing of sampling required in order to reliably assess ambient conditions and to provide sufficient data to derive site specific background reference values in accordance with the Queensland Water Quality Guidelines 2009. This should include monitoring during periods of natural flow irrespective of mine or other discharges; e) include monitoring and assessment of dissolved oxygen saturation, temperature and all water quality parameters listed in Table F2 (Mine Affected Water Release Limits) and Table F3 (Release Contaminant Trigger Investigation Levels)); f) include, where appropriate, monitoring of metals/metalloids in sediments (in accordance with ANZECC & ARMCANZ 2000, BATLEY and/or the most recent version of AS5667.1 Guidance on Sampling of Bottom Sediments); g) include, where appropriate, monitoring of macroinvertebrates in accordance with the AusRivas methodology, h) apply procedures and/or guidelines from ANZECC & ARMCANZ 2000 and other relevant guideline documents; i) describe sampling and analysis methods and quality assurance and control; and j) incorporate stream flow and hydrological information in the interpretations of water quality and biological data.
- F23
A REMP Design Document that addresses each criterion presented in conditions F21 and F22 must be maintained. Due consideration must be given to any comments made by the administering authority on the REMP Design Document and subsequent implementation of the REMP. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- F24
A report outlining the findings of the REMP, including all monitoring results and interpretations in accordance with conditions F21 and F22 must be prepared annually. This report must include the following: a) an assessment of background reference water quality; b) the condition of downstream water quality compared against water quality objectives; and c) the suitability of current discharge limits to protect downstream environmental values.
- F25
Water reuse Mine affected water may be piped or trucked or transferred by some other means that does not contravene the conditions of this environmental authority and deposited into artificial water storage structures, such as farm dams or tanks, or used directly at properties owned by the environmental authority holder or a third party for the purpose of: a) supplying stock water subject to compliance with the quality release limits specified in Table
- F7
(Stock Water Release Limits); or b) supplying irrigation water subject to compliance with quality release limits in Table F8 (Irrigation Water Release Limits); or c) supplying water for construction and/or road maintenance in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority. Table F7 (Stock Water Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Units Minimum Maximum pH pH units 6.5 8.5 -S/cm N/A 5000 Electrical Conductivity Table F8 (Irrigation Water Release Limits) Maximum Quality Characteristic 8.5 pH Units Minimum pH units 6.5 Site specific value Electrical Conductivity determined in accordance -S/cm N/A with ANZECC & ARMCANZ (2000) Irrigation Guidelines
- F26
Mine affected water may be piped or trucked or transferred by some other means that does not contravene the conditions of this environmental authority and deposited into artificial water storage structures, such as dams or tanks, for the purpose of supplying water to any operation licensed for either ERA13 (mining black coal) or ERA31 (mineral processing). The volume, pH and electrical conductivity of water transferred must be monitored and recorded. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- F27
If the responsibility for mine affected water is given or transferred to another person in accordance with conditions F25 or F26: a) the responsibility for the mine affected water must only be given or transferred in accordance with a written agreement (the third-party agreement); and b) the third-party agreement must include a commitment from the person utilising the mine affected water to use it in such a way as to prevent environmental harm or public health incidents and specifically make the persons aware of the General Environmental Duty (GED) under section 319 of the Environmental Protection Act 1994, environmental sustainability of the water disposal and protection of environmental values of waters; and c) the third-party agreement must be signed by both parties to the agreement.
- F28
Water general All determinations of water quality and biological monitoring must be: a) performed by a person or body possessing appropriate experience and qualifications to perform the required measurements; b) made in accordance with methods prescribed in the latest edition of the administering authority's Monitoring and Sampling Manual; c) collected from the monitoring locations identified within this environmental authority, within ten hours of each other where possible; d) carried out on representative samples; and e) analysed at a laboratory accredited (e.g., NATA) for the method of analysis being used. Note: Condition F28 requires the Monitoring and Sampling Manual to be followed and where it is not followed because of exceptional circumstances this should be explained and reported with the results.
- F29
The release of any contaminants as permitted by this environmental authority, directly or indirectly to waters, other than internal water management infrastructure that is installed and operated in accordance with a Water Management Plan that complies with conditions F32 to F36 inclusive: a) must not produce any visible discolouration of receiving waters; and b) must not produce any slick or other visible or odorous evidence of oil, grease or petrochemicals nor contain visible floating oil, grease, scum, litter or other objectionable matter. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- F30
Annual water monitoring reporting The following information must be recorded in relation to all water monitoring required under the conditions of this environmental authority and submitted to the administering authority in the specified format with each annual return: a) the date on which the sample was taken; b) the time at which the sample was taken; c) the monitoring point at which the sample was taken; d) the measured or estimated daily quantity of mine affected water released from all release points; e) the release flow rate at the time of sampling for each release point; f) the results of all monitoring and details of any exceedances of the conditions of this environmental authority; and g) water quality monitoring data must be provided to the administering authority in the specified electronic format upon request.
- F31
Water Management Plan A Water Management Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person(s) and implemented for all mining activities.
- F32
The Water Management Plan required by condition F31 must: a) provide for effective management of actual and potential environmental impacts resulting from water management associated with the mining activity carried out under this environmental authority; and b) be developed in accordance with administering authority's guideline Preparation of water management plans for mining activities and include: i. a study of the source of contaminants; ii. a water balance model for the site; iii. a water management system for the site; iv. measures to manage and prevent saline drainage; v. measures to manage and prevent acid rock drainage; vi. contingency procedures for emergencies; and vii. a program for monitoring and review of the effectiveness of the Water Management Plan.
- F33
The Water Management Plan required by condition F31 must be reviewed each calendar year and a report prepared by an appropriately qualified person(s). The report must: a) assess the plan against the requirements under condition F32; b) include recommended actions to ensure actual and potential environmental impacts are effectively managed for the coming year; and c) identify any amendments made to the Water Management Plan following the review. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- F34
The environmental authority holder must attach to the review report required by condition F33 a written response to the report and recommended actions, detailing the actions taken or to be taken by the environmental authority holder on stated dates: a) to ensure compliance with this environmental authority; and b) to prevent a recurrence of any non-compliance issues identified.
- F35
The review report required by condition F33 and the written response to the review report required by condition F34 must be submitted to the administering authority with the subsequent annual return under the signature of the appointed signatory for the annual return.
- F36
Saline drainage The environmental authority holder must ensure proper and effective measures are taken to avoid or otherwise minimise the generation and/or release of saline drainage.
- F37
Acid rock drainage The environmental authority holder must ensure proper and effective measures are taken to avoid or otherwise minimise the generation and/or release of acid rock drainage.
- F38
Stormwater and water sediment controls An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan must be developed by an appropriately qualified person and implemented for all stages of the mining activities on the site to minimise erosion and the release of sediment to receiving waters and contamination of stormwater.
- F39
Stormwater, other than mine affected water, is permitted to be released to waters from: a) erosion and sediment control structures that are installed and operated in accordance with the Erosion and Sediment Control Plan required by condition F38; and b) water management infrastructure that is installed and operated, in accordance with a Water Management Plan that complies with conditions F31 to F35 inclusive, for the purpose of ensuring water does not become mine affected water.
- F40
The maintenance and cleaning of any vehicles, plant or equipment must not be carried out in areas from which contaminants can be released into any receiving waters.
- F41
Any spillage of wastes, contaminants or other materials must be cleaned up as quickly as practicable to minimise the release of wastes, contaminants or materials to any stormwater drainage system or receiving waters.
- G1
Assessment of consequence category The consequence category of any structure must be assessed by a suitably qualified and experienced person, in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and a) prior to the design and construction of the structure, if it is not an existing structure; or b) prior to any change in its purpose or the nature of its stored contents.
- G2
A consequence assessment report and certification must be prepared for each structure assessed and the report may include a consequence assessment for more than one structure.
- G3
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who undertook the assessment, in the form set out in the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and
- G4
Design and construction of a regulated structure Conditions G5 to G9 inclusive do not apply to existing structures. NOTE: Construction of a dam includes modification of an existing dam - see definitions.
- G5
All regulated structures must be designed by, and constructed under the supervision of, a suitably qualified and experienced person in accordance with the requirements of the Manual for April 2014) (EM635). NOTE: Certification of design and construction may be undertaken by different persons.
- G6
Construction of a regulated structure is prohibited unless the environmental authority holder has submitted a consequence category assessment report and certification to the administering authority has been certified by a suitably qualified and experienced person for the design and design plan and the associated operating procedures in compliance with the relevant condition of this environmental authority.
- G7
Certification must be provided by the suitably qualified and experienced person who oversees the preparation of the design plan in the form set out in the Manual for Assessing Consequence must be recorded in the Register of Regulated Structures. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- G8
Regulated structures must: a) be designed and constructed in accordance with and conform to the requirements of the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and Hydraulic Performance of Structures b) be designed and constructed with due consideration given to ensuring that the design integrity would not be compromised on account of: viii. floodwaters from entering the regulated dam from any watercourse or drainage line; and ix. wall failure due to erosion by floodwaters arising from any watercourse or drainage line. c) for regulated dams associated with a failure to contain - seepage, have the floor and sides of the dam designed and constructed to prevent or minimise the passage of the wetting front and any entrained contaminants through either the floor or sides of the dam during the operational life of the dam and for any period of decommissioning and rehabilitation of the dam.
- G9
Certification by the suitably qualified and experienced person who supervises the construction must be submitted to the administering authority on the completion of construction of the regulated structure, and state that: a) the 'as constructed' drawings and specifications meet the original intent of the design plan for that regulated structure; and b) construction of the regulated structure is in accordance with the design plan.
- G10
Operation of a regulated structure Operation of a regulated structure, except for an existing structure, is prohibited unless the environmental authority holder has submitted to the administering authority: a) one paper copy and one electronic copy of the design plan and certification of the `design plan' in accordance with condition G6; b) a set of `as constructed' drawings and specifications; c) certification of those `as constructed drawings and specifications' in accordance with condition G9; d) where the regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system for the purpose of sharing the DSA volume across the system, a copy of the certified system design plan; e) the requirements of this environmental authority relating to the construction of the regulated structure have been met; f) the environmental authority holder has entered the details, required under this environmental authority, into the Register of Regulated Structures; and g) there is a current operational plan for the regulated structures. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- G11
For existing structures that are regulated structures: a) where the existing structure that is a regulated structure is to be managed as part of an integrated containment system for the purpose of sharing the DSA volume across the system, the environmental authority holder must submit to the administering authority within twelve (12) months of the commencement of this condition a copy of the certified system design plan including that structure; and b) there must be a current operational plan for the existing structures.
- G12
Each regulated structure must be maintained and operated, for the duration of its operational life until decommissioned and rehabilitated, in a manner that is consistent with the current operational plan and, if applicable, the current design plan and associated certified `as constructed' drawings.
- G13
Mandatory Reporting Level Conditions G14 to G17 inclusive only apply to regulated structures which have not been certified as low consequence category for `failure to contain - overtopping'.
- G14
The Mandatory Reporting Level (the MRL) must be marked on a regulated dam in such a way that, during routine inspections of that dam, it is clearly observable.
- G15
The environmental authority holder must, as soon as practical and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware, notify the administering authority when the level of the contents of a regulated dam reaches the MRL.
- G16
The environmental authority holder must immediately on becoming aware that the MRL has been reached, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam.
- G17
The environmental authority holder must record any changes to the MRL in the Register of Regulated Structures.
- G18
Design Storage Allowance The environmental authority holder must assess the performance of each regulated dam or linked containment system over the preceding November to May period based on actual observations of the available storage in each regulated dam or linked containment system taken prior to 1 July of each year.
- G19
By 1 November of each year, storage capacity must be available in each regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems with a shared DSA volume), to meet the Design Storage Allowance (DSA) volume for the dam (or network of linked containment systems).
- G20
The environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority as soon as possible and within forty-eight (48) hours of becoming aware that the regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year.
- G21
The environmental authority holder must, immediately on becoming aware that a regulated dam (or network of linked containment systems) will not have the available storage to meet the DSA volume on 1 November of any year, act to prevent the occurrence of any unauthorised discharge from the regulated dam or linked containment systems. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- G22
Annual inspection report Each regulated structure must be inspected each calendar year by a suitably qualified and experienced person.
- G23
At each annual inspection, the condition and adequacy of all components of the regulated structure must be assessed and a suitably qualified and experienced person must prepare an annual inspection report containing details of the assessment and include recommended actions to ensure the integrity of the regulated structure.
- G24
The suitably qualified and experienced person who prepared the annual inspection report must certify the report in accordance with the Manual for Assessing Consequence Categories and
- G25
The environmental authority holder must: a) within twenty (20) business days of receipt of the annual inspection report, provide to the administering authority: i. the recommendations section of the annual inspection report; and ii. if applicable, any actions being taken in response to those recommendations; and b) if, following receipt of the recommendations and (if applicable) actions, the administering authority requests a full copy of the annual inspection report from the environmental authority holder, provide this to the administering authority within ten (10) business days of receipt of the request.
- G26
Transfer arrangements The environmental authority holder must provide a copy of any reports, documentation and certifications prepared under this environmental authority, including but not limited to any Register of Regulated Structures, consequence assessment, design plan and other supporting documentation, to a new holder on transfer of this authority.
- G27
Register of Regulated Structures A Register of Regulated Structures must be established and maintained by the environmental authority holder for each regulated structure.
- G28
The environmental authority holder must provisionally enter the required information in the Register of Regulated Structures when a design plan for a regulated structure is submitted to the administering authority.
- G29
The environmental authority holder must make a final entry of the required information in the Register of Regulated Structures once compliance with condition G10 and G11 has been achieved.
- G30
The environmental authority holder must ensure that the information contained in the Register of Regulated Structures is current and complete on any given day.
- G31
All entries in the Register of Regulated Structures must be approved by the chief executive officer for the environmental authority holder, or their delegate, as being accurate and correct. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- G32
The environmental authority holder must, at the same time as providing the annual return, supply to the administering authority a copy of the records contained in the Register of Regulated Structures, in the electronic format required by the administering authority. Schedule H: Sewage Treatment Condition Condition number
- H1
Treated sewage effluent The cumulative total daily peak design capacity of the sewage treatment plant/s must not exceed 1500 equivalent persons (EP). Small package plants and/or septic systems, each with a daily peak design capacity less than 21EP, are not included in the cumulative total daily peak design capacity.
- H2
Treated sewage effluent must not be directly released from the sewage treatment plant/s to any waters. Note: `waters' does not include structures associated with the mine affected water management system.
- H3
Treated sewage effluent may be: a) released to the mine affected water management system for mixing with other mine affected water; b) released to land via a sub-surface infiltration trench; c) irrigated or sprayed for dust suppression or firefighting or evaporation; or d) removed as waste.
- H4
Treated sewage effluent that is released in accordance with condition H3(a) and has mixed with other mine affected water must be managed as mine affected water in accordance with the conditions of this environmental authority.
- H5
Treated sewage effluent that is released in accordance with condition H3(b) or H3(c) must be carried out in a manner such that: a) vegetation is not damaged; b) there is no surface ponding of effluent; and c) there is no run-off of treated sewage effluent to waters.
- H6
Treated sewage effluent released in accordance with condition H3(a) or H3(b) or H3(c) from any sewage treatment plant that has a daily peak design capacity of greater than 21EP must be monitored: a) at the point where the treated sewage effluent is released from the sewage treatment plant/s; b) for the quality characteristics specified in Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements); and c) at the frequency specified in Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements). Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Table H1 (Treated Sewage Effluent Monitoring Requirements) Quality Characteristic Units Monitoring Frequency 5-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (uninhibited) mg/L pH pH units Monthly Colonies per 100mL Monthly Thermo tolerant coliforms Monthly Total nitrogen mg/L Monthly mg/L Monthly Total phosphorous
- H7
If treated sewage effluent is being released in accordance with condition H3(c): a) the results of monitoring in accordance with condition H6 must not exceed the release limits specified in Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits); and b) the release must not cause spray drift or over spray to any sensitive place or commercial place.
- H8
If the release limits specified in Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits) are exceeded in accordance with condition H7(a), the environmental authority holder must notify the administering authority in accordance with conditions A7 and A8. Table H2 (Treated Sewage Effluent Contaminant Release Limits) Quality Characteristic Release Limit Units Limit Type 50 mg/L Maximum 5-day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (uninhibited) pH units pH 6.0 to 9.0 Colonies per 100mL Range 1000 Maximum Thermotolerant coliforms, based on the average of a minimum number of five samples collected Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Schedule I: Groundwater Condition Condition number
- I1
Groundwater The environmental authority holder must not release contaminants to groundwater.
- I2
Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program A Groundwater Monitoring Program must be: a) developed by an appropriately qualified person; and b) implemented by the environmental authority holder for all stages of mining activities.
- I3
The Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program required by condition I2 must: a) identify potential groundwater impacts due to the mining activities; b) include a site conceptual groundwater model; c) describe the sampling and monitoring methodology; d) detail an appropriate quality assurance and quality control program; and e) provide the process for notifying the administering authority and investigating exceedances in accordance with conditions I4-I5.
- I4
Groundwater monitoring Groundwater quality and standing water levels must be monitored: a) at the locations and at the frequencies specified in Table I1 - Groundwater Monitoring Program; and b) for the quality characteristics specified in Table I2 - Groundwater Trigger Levels.
- I5
If the groundwater contaminant trigger levels defined in Table I2 Groundwater Contaminant Trigger Levels are exceeded on three (3) consecutive monitoring occasions, the environmental authority holder must complete an investigation into the potential for environmental harm and notify the administering authority within twenty (20) business days of receiving the analysis results. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine
- I6
The Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program must be reviewed by 31 November 2023 and thereafter every two (2) years by an appropriately qualified person. The review report must: a) analyse the result of groundwater monitoring to: i. describe any impacts to groundwater levels and groundwater quality due to the mining activity; ii. determine trends in groundwater levels and groundwater quality b) assess the adequacy of the Groundwater Monitoring and Management Program; and c) provide recommendations to the environmental authority holder to address the findings of parts (a) and (b) of the review.
- I7
Within twenty (20) business days of receiving the review report required by condition I6, the environmental authority holder must provide to the administering authority: a) the review report; b) if applicable, any actions being taken by the environmental authority holder to address the recommendations of the review report; and c) if action is not being taken to address the recommendation, the environmental authority holder must provide justification for not taking action.
- I8
Annual groundwater monitoring data must be submitted to the administering authority via WaTERS by 30 September each calendar year.
- I9
Bore construction The construction, management, maintenance and decommissioning of groundwater monitoring bores must be undertaken in a manner that: a) prevents contaminants entering the groundwater b) ensures the integrity of the bores to obtain representative groundwater samples from the target aquifer; and c) maintains the hydrogeological environment within the aquifer. Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Table I1 Groundwater Monitoring Program Monitoring Locations Easting (GDA94) Northing (GDA94) Monitoring frequency
- MB10
Interpretation Bores Quarterly
- MB14
Quarterly 656880 7591357 Compliance Bores 652832 7592303 657642 7584853 Table I2 Groundwater Trigger Levels Quality Trigger Levels Characteristic Units MB10, MB11, MB13 MB12 MB14 Groundwater Level RL Monitored for interpretive Greater than 2m from background pH reasons only - no triggers pH units 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 -S/cm apply Electrical mg/L 8,910 8,910 Conductivity mg /L mg /L 318 318 Sulfate mg /L 0.055 0.055 Dissolved Aluminium mg /L 0.009 0.009 Dissolved Antimony mg /L 0.013 0.013 mg /L 0.85 0.70 Dissolved Arsenic mg /L 0.0006 0.0006 Dissolved Iron mg /L 0.034 0.034 Dissolved Mercury -g/L Dissolved 0.011 0.011 -g/L 0.001 0.001 Molybdenum Dissolved Selenium 20 20 Dissolved Silver 100 100 Total recoverable hydrocarbons C6- C10 Total recoverable hydrocarbons >C10 - C40 END OF CONDITIONS Permit Environmental authority EPML00712313 - South Walker Creek Mine Definitions Key terms and/or phrases used in this document are defined in this section. Environmental authority holders should note that where a term is not defined, the definition in the Environmental Protection Act 1994, its regulations or environmental protection policies must be used. If a word remains undefined it has its ordinary meaning. Acid rock drainage means any contaminated discharge emanating from a mining activity formed through a series of