30 October 2026
'Massive mine site, major risks, minimal return' - Mayor urges community response
Naracoorte Lucindale Mayor Patrick Ross is urging a strong community presence at next week’s rare earths forum, as he calls into question claims by mining proponent Australian Rare Earths (AR3) that it will have ‘no adverse impact’ to groundwater use by farmers.
“AR3 is talking about a massive 600 hectare initial mining site - that’s an area 300 times the MCG - and a 12 metre drawdown on our precious aquifer,” Mayor Ross said.
“What’s even more ghastly are the AR3 PR statements that they see this as a new industry in the Limestone Coast. So, the Wrattonbully area, where this initial mine is proposed, is just the beginning in their minds.
“This absolutely cements the case for an independent, region-wide independent vulnerability assessment into the impacts of rare earth strip-mining on local soils, groundwater, ecosystems, and public health. This is something the Limestone Coast LGA and regional councils have been calling for and we want to see it happen before any mining is approved.”
Mayor Ross said it was important for community members to recognise AR3’s vague reference to ‘up to’ 100 jobs and $100 million for the State coffers was over the initial 12-year project life.
“That’s $8.3 million and 8.3 jobs - at the most - a year to put at risk the most productive agricultural lands in the State, aquifers that serve farmers and the communities, hundreds of ancient trees and the very lifeblood of the South East,” Mayor Ross said.
“By comparison, the output from the Limestone Coast agricultural, forestry and fishing sector - the industries most at risk - is approximately $2.4 billion annually and these industries employ more than 6000 people.
“But this isn’t about simple maths - it’s about the future of our community if farming is put at risk. What I see right now is a massive mine site, major risks and minimal return.
“I urge people across the Limestone Coast to come along to the Naracoorte Town Hall next Wednesday 4 November at 6pm to find out more at the Limestone Coast Sustainable Futures Association community forum.
“We need a strong community response - and it needs to happen now.”
Media Spokesperson:
Mayor Patrick Ross - email patrick.ross@nlc.sa.gov.au, phone 0427 658 049
General Media Enquiries:
Uana Jericho, Community Engagement Officer - email uana.jericho@nlc.sa.gov.au, phone 8760 1100