The opposition and various factions dirty tricks - desperate measures
Asbestos has been found on the site of Nagambie Resources’ Zanelli Rd site and an argument has ensued as to just who is responsible
The Environmental Protection Agency confirmed the mining company was under investigation after officers visited the site last month.
EPA north-east regional manager Emma Knights said officers found construction and demolition waste at the site.
‘‘EPA is currently testing this waste to determine whether asbestos is present,’’ Ms Knights said.
‘‘Under the Environment Protection Act 1970, construction and demolition waste is classified as industrial waste. Anyone that dumps construction and demolition waste or permits its illegal disposal faces a fine of up to $777300 if prosecuted.’’
When asked about the investigation, Nagambie Resources executive chairman Mike Trumbull confirmed asbestos was found among the construction material.
He described it as a small amount among a larger amount of concrete, and said it did not present any immediate health risks.
‘‘You could fit the pieces of asbestos in a rubbish bin,’’ Mr Trumbull said.
He said the company would comply fully with the EPA investigation, and pointed the blame for the waste at contractors Global Contracting and Nagambie Crushed Rock and Stone.
Both had contracts with Nagambie Resources to use the Zanelli Rd site to produce gravel.
‘‘They both allowed some concrete material on site that they didn’t have a permit for,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s an easy fix.’’
Global Contracting went into liquidation in 2014, but Nagambie Crushed Rock and Stone is an active company.
‘‘We are responsible for cleaning up the mess for Nagambie Crushed Rock,’’ Mr Trumbull said.
‘‘They were meant to crush the overburden material, and they never did, so we are left with their concrete material.’’
A spokesperson for Nagambie Crushed Rock and Stone refuted claims it was responsible for bringing asbestos onto the site.
‘‘Nagambie Crushed Rock and Stone are not under investigation by the EPA,’’ the spokesperson said.
‘‘Amongst other things, we are suing Nagambie Resources for breach of contract in the County Court.’’
Mr Trumbull said his company had been served with a writ claiming it did not negotiate in good faith to extend the contract. A directions hearing will be on January 20.
‘‘We are moving to have it summarily dismissed,’’ Mr Trumbull said.
He expected to move forward with the EPA investigation and did not believe the company’s reputation or financial standing would be harmed.
But he said the company would never use a contractor again.
Not a good look but understandable during this current time with the opposition been identified and currently investigated. I wouldn't expect anything less. If that's all the opposition have in their tank then good luck to them, sad really.
CC
NAG Price at posting:
8.2¢ Sentiment: Hold Disclosure: Held
