Applications Open
GCM Invites Further Nominations for GCM’s Community Reference Group
With the appointment of AECOM as our lead environmental consultant for the Fingerboards Critical Minerals Project and the progress of environmental studies that are now underway, GCM is seeking expressions of interest for two additional members for its Community Reference Group.
The aim is to ensure there is additional community input and advice on the wide range of issues that our environmental experts will address.
In particular, we would welcome nominations to join the CRG from people interested in local environmental matters, including land rehabilitation, and those with views on the issues that need to be addressed for mining to successfully coexist with local industries such as horticulture, agriculture and tourism.
The CRG serves as a vital link between the project team and the local community.
Its purpose is to foster transparent, inclusive, meaningful and constructive engagement
The CRG currently has 13 members and meets at least quarterly. Members contribute to respectful discussions and are reimbursed for reasonable expenses like travel and childcare.
Community members, subject matter experts and interest group representatives are encouraged to nominate for the CRG. Being part of the CRG is your opportunity to:
- Share your voice. Raise community ideas, aspirations and concerns.
- Stay informed. Receive updates on the project’s progress.
- Make an impact. Provide insights on environmental, social, and economic issues.
- Work with others in the community. Make a constructive contribution and help us create the best possible project for Gippsland.
The Terms of Reference for GCM’s Community Reference Group can be found here.
Apply by Monday, 30th June 2025.
Applications to join GCM’s Community Reference Group are now open and can be made by completing the online application form.
Successful applicants will be notified by Friday, 11th July 2025.
For more information, please email us at contactus@gippslandcriticalminerals.com
Please fill out the form to apply
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Members
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| Name | ||
|---|---|---|
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JM
John Mitchell
Chairperson
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Chair of the Gippsland Regional Executive Forum | Director, Snoretox Ltd | Director, Sundermann Water Power Ltd | Managing Director, John Mitchell Consulting Pty Ltd |
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AC
Alfred Chown
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Director Energy Technologies Ltd | Director Bambach Wire and Cables Pty Ltd |
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AS
Andrew Sheridan
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District Wool Manager and Farmer, Garoogong, Bengworden |
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DR
David Radford
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Bairnsdale Regional Health Service Board Member |
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GW
Cr Geoff Wells
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Bairnsdale Regional Health Service Board Member |
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JS
Jillian Stewart
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Fernbank Resident, Former Forestry Worker |
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JA
John Alexander
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Lindenow Vegetable Grower |
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JN
Joshua Nelson
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Lindenow Vegetable Grower |
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LR
Lionel Rose
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East Gippsland Shire Councillor |
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PR
Peter Robinson
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GLaWAC Cultural Heritage Officer |
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SP
Simon Padfield
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Glenaladale Rural Fire Brigade Captain |
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TC
Tess Coverdale
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Glenaladale Rural Fire Brigade Captain |
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TH
Trevor
Hancock
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Local Business Owner, Lindenow South |
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VR
Vesna Rendulic
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East Gippsland Field Naturalists Group Representative |
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Meetings
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| Date | Title | Key Outcomes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13/06/2025 | Second Meeting – Q2 | GCM presented revised mine plans with 27% area reduction and appointed three environmental experts to CRG. Key concerns raised included dust, noise, and outreach to nearby residents. Members reviewed benefit sharing framework, recommending independent governance body and clearer "local" definitions - warning current grants model risks "social license buying" perception. Demonstration pit confirmed for January 2026 with community consultation. Next meeting August 2025 with sub-groups planned for Water, Legacy Planning, Communications and Environmental/Technical focus areas. | |
| 18/03/2025 | Initial Meeting – Q1 | GCM committed to publishing presentation materials and providing written responses to technical queries raised. Next CRG meeting tentatively scheduled for May with focus on detailed mining methodology and scheduled presentation by AECOM. Demonstration pit development confirmed for 2026 with community consultation. CRG composition to be reviewed to include more environmental groups. Community roadshow scheduled for mid-June across Bairnsdale, Lindenow, Sale and Stratford locations. |
