Residents living near the Cadia Gold Mine near Orange have found levels of lead up to ten times higher than NSW Health recommendations in their drinking water, and disturbingly high levels of heavy metals like nickel and selenium in their blood. The mine’s operator, Newcrest, and the Environment Protection Authority have turned a blind eye to the fact that the mine has been spewing dangerous levels of toxic pollution all over nearby land, water and communities, for years.

Only when news of the heavy metals in residents’ blood hit the news, did the EPA act - with a paltry $15,000 fine! Now, more communities in Central NSW are facing the prospect of toxic mines next door, with a lead mine being approved at Lue near Mudgee and another gold mine near Blayney. 

Given the toxic pollution that has come to light as a result of Cadia’s operations, the new Labor Planning Minister must urgently review these approvals, particularly as they were made in “caretaker mode” before the March election.

These mines will also be a disaster for local wildlife including koalas and platypus. They will also threaten local wineries, farmers and beekeepers and the region’s growing reputation as a world-class tourist destination.