An application for a mining exploration licence in the Port Macquarie-Hastings has been withdrawn.
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West Australian company Baldock Fe Pty Ltd applied to the Department of Industry, Skills and Regional Development in early April for an exploration licence for metals on land between the Camden Haven, Port Macquarie and Wauchope.
The Department of Planning and Environment confirmed the application for the exploration licence was withdrawn on July 20.
A spokesperson said the department does not record why the application was withdrawn.
Cazaly Resources announced to the Australian Stock Exchange in April they had lodged an application to explore the area’s nickel-cobalt resources.
“Cazaly Resources Limited (ASX: CAZ, “Cazaly” or “the Company”) is pleased to announce an application for an Exploration Licence in New South Wales covering several known nickel/cobalt resources,” the company said on its website.
“The licence application covers approximately 73 square kilometres of prospective geology within the New England Fold Belt on the mid-north coast of New South Wales.”
During its announcement to the Australian Stock Exchange Cazaly Resources said historically it has been reported that between 1897 and 1904 a cobalt-bearing manganese wad had been exploited nearby at Port Macquarie with 744 tonnes of cobalt-bearing manganese material recorded as having been shipped.
“Cobalt bearing manganese oxide was first discovered at Lake Innes in 1886,” the company said via its website.
“Work in the area throughout the early 1900s focused on cobalt as well as magnetite, chromite and nickel.
“Historic mining of hand-picked cobalt rich ore was first reported in 1897-1904.”
Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce president John Saunders said he is pleased the application for the licence has been withdrawn as mining the area would not have suited the region or the wider community.
Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams said the application caused concerns for a number of people in the community.
“I stress that just because an application has been lodged, it does not mean that a mining lease will be granted,” she said.
“I will continue to monitor all mining applications that are relevant to our local area.”
Information on exploration licence applications and current exploration licences in NSW can be found at www.commonground.nsw.gov.au
The Camden Haven Courier has contacted Cazaly Resources for comment.