RESIDENTS opposed to a state-significant sand mine proposed for Bobs Farm will now be better equipped to fight it after receiving advice from the NSW Environmental Defenders Office (EDO).
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About 50 residents turned out to the Bobs Farm Community Hall on January 21 to take part in a workshop led by the NSW EDO.
"The workshop addressed topics of gathering information, state significant developments, how to be effective, the planing process and what to do if the proposal is approved," David Pass, chairman of the No Sand Mining in Bobs Farm committee, said.
Developers of the sand mine, owned by Sydney-based company Ammos Resource Limited, are seeking state government approval to extract about 750,000 tonnes of sand a year from a 40-plus hectare lot at 3631 Nelson Bay Road.
Many only first learned of the proposed sand mine, hoped to have a 15-year life span, in December when Raymond Terrace consultant firm Tattersall Lander held a community meeting in the hall.
At the workshop, NSW EDO outreach director Jemilah Hallinan and solicitor Emily Ryan explained what legal rights the community and landholders had in regard to the sand mine proposal.
"The meeting was briefed on how to prepare an effective submission and the need to explain why you are interested and how you would be affected," Mr Pass said.
"Submissions need to be personal, pointing out how the proposal will affect you, the environment, the local economy and social factors."
The proponents for the sand mine have not yet lodged an environmental impact statement.
Once the application and EIS are lodged with the department of Planning and Environment, it will go on exhibition for a minimum of 30 days.
The outcome will most likely be determined by the NSW Planning and Assessment Commission.
