Stone Ridge Quarry Project

refer attachment

Please see attached submission

I am writing this submission to express my strong objection to the proposed Stone Ridge Quarry Project - SSD-10432. I believe that this project should not proceed due to several significant reasons that I would like to outline below:

Firstly, the project would result in the loss of vital natural habitats and a significant decrease in biodiversity. The destruction caused by the quarry would directly impact various species, including the already vulnerable Koalas, squirrel gliders, brush-tailed phascogales, as well as several threatened species of birds, bats, and orchids identified in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). This loss of habitat would have long-lasting effects on the local ecosystem and undermine conservation efforts.

Furthermore, the clearance of land for the quarry poses a substantial threat to the existing ecological communities in the area. These communities play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem, and disrupting them could have far-reaching consequences for the local flora and fauna.

The noise and blasting activities associated with the quarry would also have a detrimental impact on the surrounding wildlife. The loud noises and vibrations from the blasting would cause disturbance and potential harm to animals in the vicinity, further disrupting their natural behaviours and potentially driving them away from their habitats.

In addition to the harm caused to wildlife, the project would contribute to air pollution, posing risks to both wildlife and human health. Dust and other particulate matter generated during quarry operations would contaminate the air, adversely affecting nearby vegetation, plants, and trees. Moreover, the release of harmful pollutants into the air would pose a threat to the respiratory health of both wildlife and local communities.

The establishment of the quarry would disrupt connectivity and corridors for wildlife. Many existing quarries are located near the only corridor across Italia Road, which serves as a crucial pathway for the movement of wildlife. Disrupting this connectivity would impede the natural migration and dispersal of species, potentially isolating populations.

Developing a quarry within a State Forest is not ecologically sustainable and contradicts conservation and preservation principles. State Forests are designated areas meant to protect and conserve natural resources, and siting a quarry in such an environment undermines the very purpose of their existence.

Moreover, the proposed site is on Aboriginal land, raising concerns about potential cultural and social consequences. The project could adversely impact the cultural heritage of the local Aboriginal community.

Additionally, the quarry's operation may negatively impact nearby communities' health and quality of life, creating social and recreational challenges.


Considering the many environmental, ecological, and cultural concerns associated with the Stone Ridge Quarry Project, I urge you to reconsider and reject this proposal. It is essential to prioritise the long-term well-being of the environment, wildlife, and local communities over short-term economic gains.

I confirm that I have not made any reportable political donations within the past two years. I acknowledge and accept the Department's Disclaimer and Declaration.

I object to the proposal for the Stone Ridge Quarry Project for the following reasons.
1. The potential for increase in heavy vehicles using Italia Road west of the proposal, resulting in noise, road damage and safety implications.
2. The loss of natural habitat and the impact on wildlife.
3. The cumulative impact to the surrounding environment of having multiple quarries operating in the area.

I object to the proposal for the Stone Ridge Quarry Project for the following reasons.
1. The potential for increase in heavy vehicles using Italia Road west of the proposal, resulting in noise, road damage and safety implications. The road is not suitable for the heavy vehicles.
2. The loss of natural habitat and impact on wildlife.
3. The cumulative impact to the surrounding environment of having multiple quarries operating in the area.

I sincerely object to the Stone Ridge Quarry Project.
This project will have a major impact on air quality, whereby dust will blow onto homes, water and vegetation, which will greatly affect humans, wildlife and all flora and fauna. Noise pollution from blasting and drilling, is a cause for major concern for all inhabitants in this region. Groundwater, water drainage and runoff of sediments into the creeks that flow into the dam is causing immense worry and anxiety, health issues will no doubt come from any contaminants in the water.
Threatened flora and fauna, like the endangered Koala, Squirrel Glider, Brush Tailed Phascogale and many trees and plants, this quarry will cause immense damage to the biodiversity of the national park.
Socially the community will be affected, their way of life, accessibility, culture and health.
Corridors and connectivity for koalas and wildlife will be broken as there are other quarries in the area, the only Corridor across Italian Road is over the Balickera tunnel, where this quarry is proposed.
This quarry is not ecologically sustainable, within this State Forest.
Everything possible must be done to protect this area and its biodiversity for a healthy environment for humans and wildlife.
This quarry will have a negative impact on the community, wildlife and environment, it is very important that you do not approve this quarry.
Thank you.

I object to the proposal for the Stone Ridge Quarry Project for the following reasons.
1. The potential for increase in heavy vehicles using Italia Road west of the proposal, resulting in noise, road damage and safety implications.
2. The loss of natural habitat.
3. The cumulative impact to the surrounding environment of having multiple quarries operating in the area.
I request that my name be withheld from the list of submitters that is published on the NSW planning portal.

OBJECTION LETTER :STONE RIDGE QUARRY PROJECT (SSD-10432)
To: The Director Resource Assessment: Jesse Evans

I strongly object the Stone Ridge Quarry Project my reasons are many and frankly find it an affront to the community and the environment. We are not ignorant to the negative impacts as we have Boral in our backyard. It appears you have earmarked this area to be ‘Quarry Central’ so we would have 3 quarries in less than a 5 km radius of our property. Our lifestyle and as primary producers would be greatly affected by this project. Why should I object?
Blasting a huge hole (unprecedented in size in a State Forest in NSW) that abuts a National Park. The serenity of walking in the National Park with natures sounds of explosions and earth vibrating under your feet while you take in what is left of tainted nature.

Specific impacts and my concerns are on air quality/dust, water, soil, noise, traffic,earth surface, flora and fauna, homes, livestock and my family and community.

This project has devastating impacts on the environment, one of the biggest negative impacts of quarrying on the environment is the damage to biodiversity. Biodiversity conservation is important as all species are interlinked, even if this is not immediately visible or even known, and our survival depends on this fine balance that exists within nature. Quarrying destroys habitats and the species they support. Even if the habitats are not directly removed by excavation, they can be indirectly affected and damaged by environmental impacts – such as changes to ground water or surface water that causes some habitats to dry out or others to become flooded. Noise pollution has a significant impact on species and affects their successful reproduction.

Apart from the destruction of the landscape, impacts of the quarrying include swamp creation, deterioration of ground water, erosion of the soil, noise and percussions from rock blasting generating dust/silicosis, smoke and fumes, production of noxious gases and ground vibrations. Suspended Particulate Matter(SPM) is quite significant emanating from quarrying. Particulate matter in the air are capable of being transported from the point of generation to areas far removed. Air pollution ( not just from quarries but heavy vehicle movement, which there will be many) and ground vibration arising from blasting, crushing and emission of noxious gases have negative impacts on human health and well-being. Blasting constantly undermining house foundations and giving rising costs and complex maintenance issues. Not forgetting that our cattle are subjected to all of this too.

The dramatic increase in the number of trucks in the area is alarming. The Council refused a Boral proposal a few years ago due to the major concern of increased trucks entering and turning onto the highway. This congestion of heavy vehicles on Italia wanting to turn onto the highway would be a nightmare and obviously has a significant impact on locals using Italia Road. The noise, pollution and congestion are of no benefit and would be concerning when transporting cattle.

Another confounding factor is the lack of rigour in the planning and assessment of this application. Consultation with the community has been suboptimal, Council not present at initial meeting. The fact that we are neighbours with an existing quarry would be a perfect opportunity to gather data regarding noise and dust/air quality monitoring done or water samples form our tanks or soil testing done and results transparently available to view. There is no evidence to support a safe level of silica dust exposure. Can i see a class action litigation on the horizon?

This proposal should not come to fruition. It is fundamentally flawed and appears that Government and private enterprise are lording it over the people and the environment. This approach has to STOP.

Regards,

The water and air quality for local residents will be affected by dust, this will cause numerous health issues. The natural habitat for native fauna such as koalas and eagles would be lost, and these animals would be killed. Traffic will increase significantly, and locals fear that this will make the area more dangerous for road users, pet owners and parents of small children. The increased noise, dust and vibration will cause stress for people and animals in the once peaceful rural area. The bush land that will be demolished to make room for the project is a popular area for walking and horse riding, the inability to access these activities will negatively affect the mental and physical health of residents. This beautiful landscape is the reason why many people moved to the area, this appeal will be lost if this project moves forward.

Living on Italia Road has become less safe and less desirable. The quarry trucks start about 4.30am every morning most of the homes are close to road and not build with noise reduction. During my time on the road myself my family and neighbours have all had incidents of being run off the road by trucks heading to the quarry. Italia Road is a narrow not well maintained road that is not suitable for the large amount of increased trucks that this quarry will bring. I can not even allow my 10 year old to cross the road from his bus stop due to the amount and the speed at which traffic including trucks speed along this road. Aside from the increased truck flow we have a beautiful state forest full of beautiful wildlife and flora. I regularly see a magnificent pair of wedgetail Eagles flying over and last week saw them feeding out front of the proposed site. Despite being very hard to find in their habitat I have seen koalas in my time here. And do have the port stephens koala.rescue gather koala food from my property. The loss of that massive amount of wildlife habitat would kill off all the wildlife living in that area and also prevent koala populations from returning to the area after the bushfires. My family and I regularly enjoy a bush walk and a horse ride in the forest area which we will not be able to enjoy and this was the main reason for us moving here. The value of residence properties will decrease in value dramatically with a new quarry on the road .

I object to the Stone Ridge Quarry Proposal as it will adversely impact on my grandmothers farm at Balickera where I spent time growing up and hope to spend more time at in future. I personally disagree with using the State Forest for large quarries that will kill the plants, animals, and add pollutants to the air and water. Local wildlife seen in the area that has been seen should already be under protection, and its a worry that these animals won't be protected within our own State Forest. What is the point of our protected lands if we allow companies to turn them into quarries. Please don't approve this project.

I strongly object to the Stone Ridge Quarry Project.

The Stone Ridge proposal should have an overall positive impact to be in the “public interest”. Threatened or endangered flora and fauna, such as the koala, squirrel glider and brush-tailed phascogales will be directly impacted by this proposal. The koala is a national icon, highly valued by the Australian community and recognised around the world. The community expects koala populations to be protected in their natural habitat. The detrimental environmental impact of this proposal is not in the public interest.
The clearance of 79.02 hectares of koala habitat will have a significant impact on the endangered koala population and does not support the NSW Koala Strategy – ‘the biggest commitment by any government to secure koalas in the wild - supporting a range of conservation actions that will provide more habitat for koalas, support local community action, improve koala safety and health, and build our knowledge to improve koala conservation.’
Protecting habitat corridors is a key pillar of the NSW Koala Strategy.
As stated in the Koala Strategy – ‘Establishing new koala reserves is an important action in protecting koala habitat but it is also important that we act to reduce the threats to koalas across all land types. Communities around New South Wales are committed to koala conservation and have a lot of knowledge about the best ways to protect koalas in their local area. The NSW Government will partner and work with local communities who already have information, knowledge and a network of people on the ground working to protect koala populations.’
The Wallaroo State Forest area is koala habitat and has not been affected by recent bushfires – adding to its environmental importance.
ARDG’s own assessment of Matters of National Environmental Significance (MNES) listed under the EPBC Act has identified that the project is likely to have a significant impact on the Koala due to the clearance of 79.02 ha of suitable koala habitat.
‘A key focus of the Strategy is action to conserve koala habitat and community based action to reduce threats to local koala populations.’ [The NSW Koala Strategy]
How can this proposal, which will clear a significant area of koala habitat, be approved when koalas have been listed as endangered and habitat protection has been identified as a key strategy?
Port Stephens Council ‘states’ it is proud to be one of the remaining areas where koalas are found. Our local koala population is in dire need of habitat protection especially habitat linking areas. A 2020 State Government inquiry found that without intervention koalas are predicted to be extinct in NSW by 2050. How can an iconic and harmless Australian animal be under such threat? The recent catastrophic fires of 2019/20, in which 61,000 Koalas are estimated to have perished came on top of an already existing problem of habitat loss across the country. Projects such as the Stone Ridge Quarry project should therefore not be approved.
Assessment guidelines have been established to standardise the treatment of issues relating to the management of koalas and koala habitat within the development assessment process. Preferred Koala Habitat and Habitat Buffers require the highest level of protection possible. Further cumulative impacts to connectivity of wildlife habitat and increases in residential traffic, is the potential impact areas associated with the Kings Hill Urban Release Area (not yet approved) and the M1 Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace, to the south-west of Italia Road. These were briefly mentioned but not examined in detail as Port Stephens Council requested in 2020.
A quarry to be approved within State Forest is not ecologically sustainable.
A quarry to be approved in prime koala habitat will contribute to the extinction of the koala, which would be a national disgrace and will occur unless we stop approving developments in koala habitat.
Stony Ridge Quarry Project should not be approved.

I object to the Stone Ridge Quarry Proposal because it will have a bad impact on my grandmother's farm at Balickera where I spent time living as a child, regularly visit and hope to spend more time in the future. I don't think they should be using State Forest for massive quarries that kill all the plants and animals and pollute our land, air and water. Please do not approve this proposal to wreck our ancestral home.

I object to the Stone Ridge Quarry proposal in the Wallaroo State Forest at Balickera.
ARDG has failed to provide a balanced evaluation of the environmental and social impacts resulting from their proposal. The quarry will directly threaten the wellbeing of the local region and its wildlife.
ECONOMICS DON’T STACK UP:
It is unacceptable that public land, managed by Forestry Corporation is handed over to a private enterprise who will destroy the value of the forest. State Forests should be managed for the greater good and sustain the current environmental and economic services the forest provides now and into the future.
There needs to be full disclosure of the partnership details between ARDG and Forestry Corp, especially since the EIS is deficient in assessing impacts. Forestry Corp needs to explicitly explain how and why the environmental values and social impacts from the project proposal can be equated in terms of undisclosed royalty returns. Forestry Corp should be accountable to its stakeholders – the public of NSW – and justify their “willing” deal with ARDG prior to any decision being made by the Department of Planning.
ARDG have not shown that their quarry is needed above the existing supply and future supply from existing and establishing regional quarries. There needs to be evidence provided to the public that the State’s construction industry relies specifically on their project, and even then, a balanced cost benefit analysis needs to be provided that reflects the true value of the Wallaroo State Forest to the State.
NEGATIVE IMPACTS:
The negative impacts of the proposal extend beyond the quarry footprint –
1. Loss of functioning carbon sequestration services to ameliorate climate change impacts
2. Loss of connectivity of regional wildlife corridors
3. Direct threats and impacts to local Koala population adding to the cumulative threat to Koalas from other quarry developments in the close vicinity
4. Loss of alternative usage of Wallaroo State Forest to tourism operators in particular (alternate revenue source)
5. Unacceptable traffic impacts at Italia Road, Bucketts Way, Tarean Road and Medowie Road intersections to the Pacific Highway (as well as contributing to bottle necks along the Highway – for example at Hexham Bridge)
6. Contribution to the cumulative impacts from nearby quarry operators to the water catchment and potential impacts on the ground water table
7. Direct and unavoidable impacts to local residents and their well-being
8. Impacts from noise, vibration, blasting, air quality (including cumulative diesel fumes from trucks right along the road transport route), surface water run off affecting both the surrounding forest area and catchments
9. Destruction of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and connection to Country
10. Loss of scenic amenity

OFFSETS:
ARDG propose to offset areas located in the surrounding lands of Wallaroo State Forests. My understanding is that one of the benefits of offsetting for environmental loss is that new land will be reserved in perpetuity for the environmental benefits lost as a result of new development. However, developers need to purchase or already own that new land and commit to looking after it – forever. ARDG obviously don’t own the Wallaroo State Forest, so how can they propose to offset within it? Surely that land will already be managed by Forestry Corp. What comparable lands can be purchased outside the Forest estate and where will they be?
The Stone Ridge Quarry proposal should be refused. The Wallaroo State Forest is simply not the place for a quarry development of this magnitude.
Yours faithfully,
Megan Benson.

I object to the Stone Ridge Quarry Project because it will have major effects on the environment and impact on my Grandmother's farm at Balickera where I like to spend time every school holiday. I am worried how it will effect the cows that live on the farm and all the wildlife living in the forestry.

I object to the proposed Stone Ridge Quarry Project.
Over the past 7 years since I have lived here, this area of Port Stephens has been subjected to proposal after proposal.

The Stone Ridge Project is proposed to be located on one of the most dangerous roads in Port Stephens and using a dangerous entry onto the Pacific Highway regardless on the merge entry that is proposed. Not to mention clearing 80HA of prime Koala habitat. Koala's were put on the endangered species list and it is a well known fact that the greatest threat to Koala's is habitat loss. Well here were are again fighting for our national icon. Its a disgrace that a company can think clearing Koala habitat for rocks is a well thought out plan for the future.

The residents on Italia Rd are already subjected to a road in terrible condition and trucks from the Boral Quarry.

The Ports Stephens Koala population is already in a dangerous decline, clearing more koala habitat in this area is not in the interest of the area, the state or the country.

The Wallaroo "State Forest" belongs to the people of NSW. The NSW Labour government will have Koala blood on its hands if this is approved. When NSW Labour was in opposition it fought against the "Koala Killer" Gladys to save 52Ha of Koala Habitat at the Brandy Hill Quarry again in the 2324 postcode. This fight brought a lot of national media attention. I'm Sure the current NSW Labour Government wants to be on right side of history.

Its time Sydney get their own quarry and leave the 2324 post code alone.

I object to this project for many reasons.
1- The environmental impact to our fauna and flora. We have known endangered species in the proposed site and nothing has been done to protect them. The response we have received is “too bad”.
2- Increased road traffic - our road is not up to code to have such traffic. I would also like to point out our road is not safe enough as it for school kids to get on buses or resident road users as it is. I know this, I experienced my brother in law killed on our road two years ago.
3- Health from fumes and dust. I have 2 young children and due to impeding heath concerns, my partner and I have serious thoughts about relocating ( I should not be forced out of my home due to my own and families safety).
These are 3 genuine concerns objecting. If it were to go ahead it would be a detriment to the community and wildlife.

Dr Michelle Wills
606 Italia Rd
East Seaham NSW 2324

14th July 2023

TO: The Director Resource Assessments, Jessie Evans

I object to the proposal for the Stone Ridge Quarry Project (SSD-10432) for the following reasons.

1. Effect on wildlife

(a) Reduction of safe areas for wildlife in Port Stephens

I was a volunteer wildlife rescuer and rehabilitator for our area for many years. During this time I have rescued koalas, wallabies, kangaroos, possums and flying foxes from sites immediately around the State Forest on Italia Rd. I have observed many reptiles and birds living in the quarry zone. At breeding times large numbers of echidna can be observed near the quarry site. Port Stephen’s Council has allowed to many of the wildlife areas in its jurisdiction to be decimated by mining. We cannot risk the devastating effect of such a vast quarry in the area depleting anymore of our wildlife habitats.

I do not belief there has been adequate investigation into the long-term effects of the mining in this region as far as the future rehabilitation of the site is concerned. Such a long term mining project will simply remove all koala’s from the area and other species of wildlife. Once gone they are gone.

(b) Effects of noise

There are major flying fox colonies at Clarence town and Raymond Terrace. At certain times of the year these fly over our area. The noise will affect their ability to adequately navigate the region. This will disrupt their access to food, but can also cause them to get stressed and use domestic pet facilities to seek water and protection. It is in situations like this that the risk of zoonosis occurs.

The noise will also disrupt migratory birds, and frighten wildlife. I will address this further under road issues.

(2) Issues related to the road

(a) Failure of Italia Rd to meet Australian Standards for Usage

Italia Rd is not up to the Australian Standard for current usage. I have previously written to Port Stephens Council (Enquiry Number 347145) on 11th May 2023 regarding the road. They have failed to reply. I believe this may be because there is insufficient scope for the road to be improved enough to meet the demands of its current usage, let alone any increased usage related to the quarry. Claims the increased traffic will only exist Italia Rd east bound onto the highway are ludicrous. Quarry tracks often travel westbound along Italia Rd, and we have collected video footage of this. The letter I wrote to council on the 11th of May 2023 was because on two occasions in the same week I was forced off the road by an oncoming quarry truck.

(b) Failure of road repairs to make permanent improvements to whole of Italia Rd

Current ‘repairs’ to Italia Rd are not long lasting. I have sought advice from a senior civil engineer who indicated that simply cleaning around the edges of the road would not make it safer. In fact, after the current work a car hit a tree when it went on to the soft edges of the road. Every rain event will simply wash away the edges causing the road to crumble. I understand every truck does the damage of 10000 cars on a road. The current road improvement on Italia Rd only relates to a very small section of the road.

The simple fact is, Italia Rd does not meet the Australian Standards for current usage, and the Council refuses to respond to what it plans to do about it. I also think the money paid by Boral to Port Stephens Council may not have been used appropriately or solely to improve the roads that the quarry trucks used. This in itself needs investigating.

(c) Increased animal traffic across Italia Rd

Sadly I remove many wildlife from Italia Rd on a weekly basis. Although some of the fatalities may be prevented by slower driving, it is a known fact most deaths are unpreventable. The quarry will increase movement of these animals across Italia Rd, and also maybe across the Pacific Highway. The animals will move away from the noises, pollution and diminishing habitat.

Many car accidents are caused by people trying to miss animals on the roads. It is my understanding it was the cause of the accident that killed 26 yo Ben Langdon on Italia a couple of years ago. I am terrified there will be more fatalities.

(3) Health Issues

(a) Silicosis and other respiratory illness

Understanding of what are adequate safety precautions to prevent Silicosis and other mining dust respiratory illnesses is still emerging. I don’t believe there has been any study on potential dust spread in the area from the mining. This will affect animal and human residents. It is inadequate to say ‘we will undertake air quality checking’. Approval to the quarry cannot be given without appropriate INDEPENDENT reviews of air currents in the area, and measurements of the extent of spread of dust. This is particularly important in our area when we are all using tank or ground water.

(b) Mental Health
Something that has been entirely overlooked is the impact on mental health of the residents. As a community we are all genuinely stressed about the increased traffic on Italia Rd. Many have children who catch the local school bus. The trucks are a major problem because of their width, and the speed some take corners resulting in crossing to the wrong side of the road. We cannot even safely walk along our Rd. Many residents cannot even pull out of their driveways without risk of being hit.

(4) Use of the Forestry Act to get preliminary approval for mining


The Mining Act comes under Federal Jurisdiction. Preliminary approval has been given for the Stone Ridge Quarry through the NSW Forestry Act. One must question whether this back door entry for mining companies to rape our forests should be reviewed. I find it somewhat contradictory that the Port Stephen’s Council has zoned the properties on Italia Rd as Rural Landscape, yet at our back doors a quarry is permitted. I wonder how much money the Port Stephens Council and NSW Forestry will receive for agreeing to the proposed quarry? I feel it is reasonable to request that this is disclosed.

As a resident I feel sold out. As an Australian citizen I feel our legislation needs to be reviewed. As an individual I believe we, and our local wildlife, are simply seen as collateral damage. At an absolute minimum and independent enquiry is needed for this proposed quarry.

I have not made any reportable political donation in the last two years. I acknowledge and accept the Departments Disclaimer and Declaration.

I would appreciate if you could please acknowledge receipt of this submission

Regards

Michelle Catherine Wills

I believe that this proposed quarry jeopardised fragile ecosystems for short sighted commercial gain and fails to recognise the value these places have to the community and the economy. There a better places for this quarry to go and its approval will leave those that did so on the wrong side of history.

I object to the destruction of animal habitat within a state forest and to this project in particular. Creating a quarry within a wildlife corridor cannot possibly be approved. Increase in the dust, noise and truck movement over the 30 years of the quarry’s life cannot be acceptable in our state forest or anywhere near a wildlife corridor. Koalas will suffer major impact, and even Grahamstown dam could be affected.
Please do not approve this proposal for Stone Ridge quarry. This quarry does not reflect sustainable forest management but rather permanent destruction of this section of the forest. I object.