Newmont has received the green light from the New South Wales Government to restart underground operations at the Ridgeway gold mine, part of its Cadia complex near Orange.
Ridgeway was placed into care and maintenance in 2016, having run alongside the larger Cadia complex since it initially began production in 2002.
The mine was given the green light to begin production again after the NSW Government approved Newmont’s planning consent for Cadia, which outlined other programs like reducing noise limits and supporting local jobs.
Cadia general manager Tom Lukeman welcomed the approval, which he said supports Cadia’s ongoing economic and social contribution.
Cadia currently employs 1800 people, almost all of whom live in the Orange, Blayney and Cabonne districts of NSW.
“The project has successfully met every step of the NSW environmental assessment requirements and will enable the continuation of safe and efficient mining operations,” Lukeman said.
“Our team has worked with NSW regulators to ensure a balanced outcome while responding to the community’s feedback.”
The approval was determined by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure on the basis that the project impacts are acceptable and the project is in the public interest.
In addition, Cadia is committed to limiting ventilation system emissions to a maximum of 50mg/m3 through emission scrubbing systems.
This decision also allows Cadia to undertake a further upgrade of its railings storage facilities and implement a number of ancillary infrastructure upgrades to support efficiency and ongoing safe mining operations.
Lukeman said Cadia would continue to consult widely and invest in local programs as part of its long-term commitment as a responsible contributor to the communities in which Newmont operates.
Between July 2022 and December 2023, Cadia invested $5.98 million in local community programs, education and infrastructure.
