Greens Spokesperson for Cultural Heritage, Senator Penny Wright, has congratulated the SA State government on its decision to block the reopening of the historical Monster Mine at Burra and is now calling for further protection for this globally significant site. 

“It was a close call,” Senator Wright says. “The Burra mining heritage site has global significance.  In 1851 the Burra Monster Mine was the richest copper mine in the world and it is a fundamental part of South Australia’s settlement history.”

“Burra and the mine are also globally important.  They have been nominated by the SA Heritage Council for inclusion in the World Heritage list as part of a serial listing of 10 sites around the world (including Cornwall, Mexico, Spain & South Africa) which show the influence Cornish miners had on global development in the 19th Century.”

“I welcome the decision by the SA Mining Minister, Tom Koutsantonis to reject an application by Phoenix Copper to lift the Monster Mine’s protection status and allow new exploration (and potentially mining) in the mine precinct.  But that isn’t enough to ensure the long-term protection of this site,” Senator Wright said.

“Under the existing rules, it is just up to the SA Mining Minister whether or not to allow mining. Fortunately the current Minister has done the right thing but this doesn’t guarantee protection in the future if another push for mining comes along.”

“The Australian Government should now move quickly to assess the World Heritage potential of the mining town of Burra. World Heritage listing would give a massive boost to tourism and offer lasting benefits to the local economy.”

“Allowing the reopening of mining and risking trashing this globally significant site would have been a monstrous decision.  Protection should not depend on the personal decision of a Minister.  That is why we should strive for the highest level of protection in the form of World Heritage Listing,” Senator Wright said.

Media Contact – Anna Chang 0417 173 508