Case study

“Using the particular manner provision to deliver better environmental outcomes —
Kagara Pty Ltd Dome Polymetallic mine, Queensland.”

Kagara Pty Ltd proposed to re-open the mining operation at the existing Red Dome Mine and associated satellite ore deposits near Chillagoe, north Queensland. A key issue was impacts from blasting vibration on nearby caves used by the endangered greater large-eared horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus philippinensis). As part of its referral documentation, Kagara provided data on the bat obtained as part of mine baseline studies. As few studies of this species have been conducted, the data have contributed to a better understanding of the bat and its distribution in the Chillagoe region.

Kagara consulted with bat experts and state agencies to identify likely impacts of mining on the greater large-eared horseshoe bat, and prepared measures to minimise these impacts as part of its referral documentation. Kagara undertook to establish conservation zones and buffers to protect cave sites, use minimal lighting at the tailings storage facility and process ponds to reduce their attractiveness to insects and hunting bats, provide artificial lighting stations to attract insects and bats away from mine areas, implement blast protocols to avoid or minimise disturbance risks, and rehabilitate the area as soon as possible after disturbance.

A specialised monitoring programme will also be implemented to assess the effectiveness of the mitigation measures and to improve understanding of the impact of mining activities on bat species in general. A decision was made that there are not likely to be significant impacts on the greater large-eared horseshoe bat, provided the specified mitigation measures are implemented.