Only some locals are pro mining in the area , yes I am familiar with the general area strangely for a similar reason to you .
Unlike the Greenies I feel there will be a mine but it will not be open cast it will be underground with less impact visually and from less tailings , The Regis resources debacle is analogous to what could happen at Bendigo if SMI goes with an open cut mine scenario
This article seems to give a basic understanding of the issues :
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