Northparkes Mines managing director, Stefanie Loader advised staff of the development last Friday. 

“It is with great excitement that I announce we have full approval for our mine life extension project from both the NSW and Federal governments,” she said.

“This approval extends Northparkes’ mine life until 2032, an additional seven years, and secures our business’ long term future. 

“Thank you to everyone across Northparkes who has been involved in the Step Change Project who worked so hard to secure this important approval.

“Construction can now begin on the Rosedale tailings storage facility, which will enable us to continue mining beyond 2016. 

“Thanks also go out to our community for their continued support, especially the Parkes and Forbes shire councils.

“I look forward to Northparkes continuing to be a significant business and community member of the Central West region for many years to come.” 

During the construction of the tailings storage facility there will be more contractors on site at Northparkes.

Otherwise, the mine life extension means Northparkes will operate at roughly the same size in terms of employment and production for an extra seven years – to 2032.

Northparkes currently has some 309 full time employees – with more than 400 people, sometimes considerably more, when including all contractors on site at various times. Forbes Shire mayor Ron Penny welcomed the announcement and said it was very positive news locals employed by the mine as well as the broader community. 

“Council recognises that job creation and security is important for the future growth of any community,” Cr Penny said.

“A lot of people from Forbes are employed by Northparkes and this announcement is extremely positive as it provides added security of the tenure of their jobs.”