Scott Ludlam (WA, Australian Greens) Share this | Hansard source

asked the Minister representing the Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, upon notice, on 29 June 2011:

In regard to the Horizontal Waterfalls of the Kimberley, Western Australia:

  (1)   Are the environmental and/or cultural values of the Horizontal Waterfalls and surrounds currently being assessed for heritage listing by the Minister.

  (2)   Would any proposed exploration, clearing or mining in the Horizontal Waterfalls area require federal environmental assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the Act).

  (3)   Are there any reasons why environmentally sensitive areas in the immediate vicinity of the Horizontal Waterfalls, including near-coastal habitats of Poulton Creek and Cyclone Creek, would be exempt from requiring a clearing permit.

  (4)   Can the department confirm that the proposed exploration area by Pegasus Metals Limited is adjacent to environmentally sensitive near-coastal areas around the Horizontal Waterfalls, which include Poulton Creek and Cyclone Creek.

  (5)   Has Pegasus Metals referred to the Minister any of the following in relation to their Horizontal Falls tenements:

  (a)   exploratory/preparatory work plans;

  (b)   any mining plans, including the clearing of native vegetation; or

  (c)   details of possible impacts on listed species/communities;

     if so, can details be provided; if not, will the Minister call in the proposal (under the Act) given the significance of the Horizontal Waterfalls and surrounds.

  (6)   Can the department confirm whether Pegasus Metals flew fuel and heavy equipment into the Horizontal Waterfalls area during May 2011.