Friday, 13 July, 2007

No Waste Alliance

Environmentalists say another Territory tourism icon is under threat from uranium mining.

Uranium miner Aldershot Resources last month told the stock exchange that they have begun drilling for uranium at the Adelaide River Prospect, which was abandoned in the 1950s.

This week, the miner announced they are moving operations south to the George Creek Prospect.

But Mr Justin Tutty, spokesperson for the No Waste Alliance, warns that this activity may encroach on a popular tourist destination.

“Tourism is a far greater employer than mining, but uranium exploration is being allowed to jeopardise this valuable industry.”

“Already, both Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks are entirely covered with similar exploration applications.”

“Now we can add to the list George Creek, which feeds the popular Robin Falls.”

“Early last year, the Chief Minister announced further funding for tourism development in Coomalie shire, designed to build on Batchelor’s important role as the gateway to Litchfield.”

“Since then, we’ve watched as uranium exploration, and plans to redevelop the abandoned Rum Jungle uranium lease, threaten to strangle the natural infrastructure of Batchelor’s tourism future.”

“Tourism offers sustainable employment, but uranium mining offers long-lived radioactive wastes, which will remain at dumps and on minesites long after the market’s bubble has burst.”