Monaro Rock Quarry Project

My home is heritage listed built about 1923, my house does not have guttering or tanks which cannot be installed because of the heritage listing. I will explain further how the major project will negatively impact my situation. I have lived here for 45 years; my sole source of drinking water has been the creek running through my land. I pump this water to an uphill tank and it is gravity fed to my house. My livestock - now horses, previously sheep - also rely on this water as does my garden.

The quarry proponents state in their information sheet that the Project Need (Aug 2025) would be 'designated and operated in a manner considerate of the impacts of local residents and that it is in the wider community interests" because it would supply aggregate for construction and infrastructure projects in the ACT and QBN-Palerang region. They claim the quarry could provide up to 1 million tonnes of material annually for 35 years, meeting around "30-35% of local demand." While I understand the argument for supply, these assertions do not address the risks to local residents like me, whose health and livelihood depend directly on clean water which will be compromised by silica deposits in the water supply. The quarry has indicated the water from the operations of the quarry will be released into Guises Creek which is my sole water source. This raises grave concerns about water quality and the impact to my health. For me, this is not a hypothetical risk - it directly threatens the safety of my drinking water, the wellbeing of my animals and the continued habitability of my heritage listed home.

The quarry documents also emphasise 'local benefits' and 'economic value' to the region, but it fails to recognise that such benefits cannot come at the cost of human health and wellbeing or the destruction of established rural properties. In my case there is no alternative water source available due to the heritage restrictions.

I strongly object to the Monaro Rock Quarry Project. I have many concerns with the proposed project, particularly the impact on the local wildlife, such as the pygmy possum, blue tongue lizard, legless lizard, grass parrot and other birdlife. I also have serious concerns about the grassland earless dragon (tympanocryptis pinsuicolla) as the area of the proposed quarry is their typical habitat. I don't believe a proper assessment or environmental study has been completed by the Monaro Rock Quarry Project to understand the impacts on the local wildlife, in particular, those wildlife I have listed above. I also am extremely concerned about the increase in traffic (by at least a 1000%) and the detrimental affect the heavy vehicles will have on the local roads, including Monaro Station Road, the Monaro Highway and Old Cooma Road - these roads have not been designed or built to handle the amount of heavy vehicles that will travel on these roads daily if the Project goes ahead. This has been evidenced recently when the new estate of 13 blocks (Royalla Estate) built at the end of the Monaro Station Road, when just a slight increase in traffic and heavy vehicles destroyed large parts of Monaro Station Road. When I purchased land on Monaro Station Road, it was to enjoy the rural lifestyle, including peace and quiet, no loud traffic or industrial noises. If the Project goes ahead there will be constant loud noise and traffic 6 days per week - from 5am to 6pm - this does not align with the intended purpose of the Royalla rural lifestyle. I am also concerned that if the Project goes ahead, it will have a significant negative impact on the housing market in the area, particularly reducing the value of my own home.
Christopher OToole, local resident

As a local resident living in very close proximity to the proposed Monaro Rock quarry in Royalla, I strongly object to this project. The proposal raises serious concerns that will directly and severely affect the physical and mental health, safety, lifestyle, and wellbeing of my family and many others in the community, along with financial security (home values will reduce significantly if this development goes ahead). I have listed my concerns in the attached PDF file. Thank you.

I object to this project. The ACT and surrounds already has multiple quarries servicing the region and we dont need another one. There are many logical reasons not to go ahead with this project.
1. Silica dust exposure - linked to lung cancer, kidney disease, silicosis which is irreversable/incurable. Silica dust is a very real risk to everyone living in the area of this proposed quarry and the ACT southern suburbs. Many whom already experience respiratory issues which would be exacerbated by the silica dust made by this quarry. This includes my 5 year old son, and I would never want him to experience any of the issues caused by silica dust.
2. Increased trucks on the highway, which would increase the risk of accidents on an already high accident area.
3. A nearby quarry can negatively effect the resale value of homes in the area because of air bourne particulates, additional traffic, dust, vibrations and noise.

To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing as a local resident of the Royalla area to express my strong opposition to the quarry development. I live near the site and am deeply concerned about how this project will affect the health, safety, and quality of life for my family and community.
My main concerns include:
• Dust and air pollution from blasting and truck movements, which pose a risk to respiratory health, particularly for children and older residents.
• Noise pollution from quarry operations, which will disrupt the peace and quiet that makes Royalla such a valued rural community.
• Traffic and road safety, as quarry trucks will significantly increase heavy vehicle movements on local roads, putting residents, cyclists, and school children at risk.
• Environmental impacts, including the destruction of native bushland and potential harm to local wildlife and water catchments.
This development would permanently change the rural character of Royalla. Many people moved here because of its peaceful environment, and the quarry would undermine the reasons many families choose to live in this community.
For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to reject the Royalla Quarry proposal. The long-term costs to residents, the environment, and community wellbeing far outweigh any potential short-term benefits.
Thank you for your time.

May cause pollution and dust.
More traffic and noise
Too close to homes

I object to this project SSD-27223807
Proposed Monaro Rock Quarry – Royalla NSW 2620

To whom it may concern,
Thank you for reading my letter.

I feel compelled to write to you with my serious concerns and strong objection to the proposed Monaro Rock Quarry Project.

I live in Little Burra, a small rural residential community bordering on Royalla and the quarry will be just a few kilometres from my back door looking north west.

My family and I moved here 19 years ago with a plan to enjoy the rural ambience, improve the environment and leave a positive imprint on this beautiful land. The impact of this quarry will adversely affect 4 generations of my family ranging in age from 2yrs to 87yrs. All of whom either live here long term or reside for varying lengths of time. We have propagated and planted over 700 trees, grown gardens to enhance the bees, birds and butterflies and enjoy watching the local wildlife graze on our native grassland under the hundred year old yellow box gums. We use rainwater for drinking and have solar power with battery back up to run our home.

How do you convey the feeling of extreme anxiety and heartfelt despair over the consequences of what this quarry will bring? How the immediate effect of the shock-waves of the blasting and the compounding effect of the fine particles of life limiting dust that will affect all forms of local inhabitants from grasses to birds to wildlife and humans?

The impact of this quarry is very difficult to quantify…….

There are significant issues of concern such as water contamination, air pollution, noise, road safety, local heavy vehicle traffic, environmental impact and the irreplaceable loss of habitat for the local wildlife, flora and fauna in an area that is already listed as critically endangered. The multiple reports created to support this quarry can be seen to mitigate or offset these serious concerns in very convincing ways by experienced, professional organisations in favour of the quarry because they are paid by the proponents.

We already have 2 quarries within a 10 km radius of here that have many many years of excellent high grade resources still available to serve the surrounding area. And neither are needing to run at full capacity. Yes, I understand employment and resource availability is extremely important for obvious reasons, but why put another quarry in between these 2 quarries just because it can be seen to improve competition and just because Monaro Rock has access to the rock. Just because they can, doesn’t mean they should. This quarry provides no advantage to long term employment or resource availability to the surrounding communities of NSW or ACT at all.

Thank you again for reading this letter and giving it due consideration.

I hope it has raised awareness about my concerns on the impact that this addition quarry would have on my family, our community and our environment. I look forward to hearing of your considered and hopefully favourable decision in this matter.

Yours sincerely

Mrs Jennifer George
Little Burra
Googong
NSW 2620

I am concerned about the possible health ramifications from dust from the quarry.

I'm concerned about the decrease in property prices in Theodore.

The noise from blasting is concerning. The blast vibrations from the quarry may cause damage to my property.

Please do not go ahead with the quarry.

Thankyou

Road traffic during the snow season cannot support this the queues into town can already be KMs long even on a week day. The road is already falling apart from the level of truck traffic with constant patch fixed every time it rains. The impact on the animal habitat pushing them further to the road where it already has consistent accidents due to animal impact. The dust from the current quarry is enough surely another quarry with further impact air quality.

Tuggeranong already had degraded air quality issues from the mugga lane tip surely adding the quarry to this will put this further at risk.

Living so close to the proposed site i cant believe that it has gone this far through the planning process. I work in the construction industry and NEED 3 things just to get on a construction site. White card, asbestos awareness and as of recently silica awareness. An unseen killer that our construction companies must take VERY seriously on every jobsite. And righly so. How can we mine aggregate so close to where kids are still playing outside and families enjoy hiking through nature knowing how dangerous silica dust is? We learnt from asbestos mining too late for too many families. What will be the impact on the monaro highway? Too many fatalities as is let alone with alot of extra trucks getting already impatient drivers even angrier. The main thoroughfare to the ski fields which is a lovely drive will become like driving in peak hour in Sydney. I have done the lap of Australia and seen the impact of mining on many small towns. No need to ruin our paradise for a bit of rock that only benefits a couple people filling their pockets. Thankyou

I am a local residency of Conder in the very close proximity of your proposed plan. I am also a joiner/ cabinet maker where they mandated the banning of silica products which I support. I already have been subject to the possible health implications. How can you propose a quarry so close to residential zone which will create hazards to the environment and people. Whilst I don’t have a problem with a quarry as such more so the location, my health as I am an asthmatics, my kids are asthmatics and I worry that the impact of such quarry will further impact my health. I’m just one person however many more people that this will affect. What guarantee will be in place ? Can you give us the facts!

I am writing to formally object to the proposed quarry development in Royalla NSW, as outlined in the Monaro Rock Quarry project. As a concerned resident of the area, I believe that this development presents significant risks to both public safety and the local environment, and I urge the council to reconsider this proposal on the grounds of the following concerns:
1. Traffic Safety and Congestion
The development of a quarry in our suburb will significantly increase truck traffic, both on local roads and nearby highways. The heavy trucks transporting materials to and from the site will pose several risks, including:
Increased Traffic Congestion: Local roads are not designed to handle the volume of heavy truck traffic that will result from the quarry operation. These roads already experience high traffic, especially during peak holiday seasons both winter snow traffic and summer school holiday times, and the additional trucks would further congest the area, causing significant risks for residents and commuters.
Public Safety Risks: The combination of large, slow-moving trucks and the existing traffic patterns creates a dangerous environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users which could see an increased risk of accidents.
Wear and Tear on Infrastructure: Our current road infrastructure, is not equipped to support the extra weight and volume of traffic that would result from quarry operations. The long-term impact on road maintenance and safety could be detrimental to the community’s overall infrastructure.
2. Environmental Impact
In addition to the traffic concerns, the environmental implications of quarrying in our suburb are severe and warrant serious consideration:
Air and Dust Pollution: The extraction and transportation of quarry materials will likely release large amounts of dust and particulate matter into the surrounding environment. This can contribute to poor air quality, impacting the health of residents, particularly those with respiratory issues, and exacerbating the region's pollution problems.
Noise Pollution: The operation of heavy machinery, blasting, and transportation of materials would generate significant noise pollution, which could disrupt local wildlife and affect the peace and livability of residential areas. The noise would likely be constant throughout the day, disturbing both adults and children who live in the area.
Water and Soil Contamination: The risk of water and soil contamination due to quarrying activities is a serious concern. Potential runoff from the site could affect nearby waterways, compromising local ecosystems and potentially contaminating local water supplies. Reliance on the water tables for residents with bore operations for livestock will have a significant impact to properties who rely on the source daily.
Loss of Biodiversity: The land designated for the quarry is home to local flora and fauna, some of which are rare or threatened. Quarrying operations can lead to habitat destruction and the irreversible loss of biodiversity in the area, which is something that the community cannot afford to overlook.
3. Community and Property Value
A quarry in such close proximity to residential areas will likely lead to a decrease in property values. The combined effects of noise, dust, and traffic congestion will significantly detract from the overall quality of life in our suburb. The presence of a quarry would also make the area less attractive to potential buyers or renters, further impacting the local economy.

While I understand the economic benefits that may arise from quarrying operations, I believe that the risks associated with this development far outweigh any potential gains. Especially with other quarries operating in close proximity to this proposed site, that are not running at capacity or close to closing operations. The safety of residents, the environmental impact, and the long-term consequences for our community must take precedence.
Therefore, I respectfully request that the council reject the proposed quarry development in Royalla based on the concerns raised above. I am happy to discuss these objections further or to provide additional information if required.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Respectfully,
G

I am a near neighbour to this proposed quarry, I have concerns regarding the proposed quarry being located this area.
Firstly, it is being located in an area of both productive farmland and a pristine piece of critically endangered Box Gum Grassy Woodland. This woodland is home to a wide and varied community of both flora and fauna, including but in no way limited to the following:
Endangered Flora: Small Purple Pea(Swainsona Recta), Hoary Sunray(Leucochrysum albicans subsp.)
Endangered Fauna: Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby(Petrogale penicillata), Eastern Quoll(Dasyurus viverrinus)
Secondly, it is being proposed to route the heavy vehicle movement through one of the ACT's nature reserves, the Melrose Nature Reserve. This will result in damage to the reserve itself an more significantly will result in a very large increase of heavy vehicle traffic onto one of the ACT's most congested roads, the Monaro Highway. The proposed site already has simple and cleared access to the NSW transport infrastructure via Monaro Station Road and Old Cooma Road. Utilising this access would preserve significant reaches of existing biodiversity and allow simpler access to northern NSW utilisers of the quarries proposed product.
Thirdly, this is a needless quarry, our region is already serviced by four quarries within 30Km of this site. These quarries have published resource mapping continuing for in excess of 100 years.
And finally, this quarry is paying no attention to the significant indigenous heritage known to exist within the proposed site. Both a known ring tree, used as a guidance device, and a scar tree, utilised for both product and potential spiritual significance to the local indigenous peoples, providing direct links to their ancestors and beliefs.

I am writing to formally object to the proposed Monaro Rock Quarry development for the following reasons:
1. Road Safety and Increased Traffic Risk
The proposed development would lead to a significant increase in heavy vehicle traffic on the surrounding roads including trucks transporting rock and related equipment. This is particularly concerning given the existing challenges faced on these roads due to large traffic from the snow and costal traffic, which is already recognised by local residents as dangerous. Regularly seeing near misses and accidents due to the traffic and impatient drivers. Having more trucks and slow traffic will increase this risk and potentially cause more incidents.
The increased traffic will pose serious safety risks to other road users, including local residents.
Noise, vibration, and traffic congestion associated with quarry vehicles will deteriorate the quality of these roads which are already prone to potholes and deteriorating.
I believe the existing infrastructure cannot safely support the scale of traffic the proposed quarry would generate.
2. Health Impacts from Silica Dust
Mining and processing are known to generate respirable silica dust, which poses serious health hazards.
Prolonged exposure to silica dust is a well-documented cause of silicosis, a debilitating and irreversible lung disease.
It is also classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), associated with increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory conditions.
Windborne dust can travel well beyond the boundaries of the quarry site, impacting nearby homes, schools, farms, and recreational areas.
Vulnerable populations—including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory issues—are especially at risk.
Conclusion
Given the serious concerns outlined above regarding road safety and public health, I strongly urge the planning authority to reject this application.
Thank you for your time and consideration.

I write to formally object to SUB - 94655466 – the Monaro Rock Quarry State Significant Development Application.

This proposal is fundamentally incompatible with the Queanbeyan-Palerang Local Environmental Plan 2022, which prohibits extractive industry in the designated area. Proceeding with this development would undermine the integrity of the region’s planning framework and set a concerning precedent.

The quarry poses serious risks to public health and livability, particularly for residents of Royalla and surrounding communities. Increased heavy vehicle traffic along Old Cooma Road and the Monaro Highway would endanger road users, contribute to congestion, and accelerate road degradation. These routes are vital for families, commuters, and local businesses, and their safety must be prioritised.

The environmental impact is equally alarming. The proposed site includes Enchanted Hill, an area of significant biodiversity value. Approving this development would result in irreversible ecological damage and loss of habitat.

Residents trust decision-makers to act in their best interests. Objecting to this project would demonstrate leadership, accountability, and a commitment to protecting both the community and the environment.

I urge all relevant authorities to reject SUB - 94655466 and uphold the principles of sustainable development, public safety, and ecological preservation.

I object to this development application SSD-27223807 for the Monaro Rocks Quarry.

I intend to return to my family property next year in Royalla. As it stands, I am within 5km of the project site in GIlmore and I drive the Monaro Highway everyday. Regardless of where I locate, I will be impacted.

This proposal will impact the lives of all residents not only within Royalla but across the NSW & ACT region.

THE QPLEP DOES NOT ALLOW THIS
I refer to the Environmental Impact Statement (‘EIS’) and the “Need for the Project”. The data suggests there will be a hard rock shortfall by 2030 if the project is not approved. This is an opinion put forward by the Proponent is that the need outweighs the environmental constraints and its values at the proposed development site. Extractive industries are a prohibited use within the RU2 Rural Landscape and C2 Environmental Conservation of the Queanbeyan-Palerang Local Environmental Plan 2022 (‘QPLEP’). The need for the project cannot outweigh the prohibition of extractive industries for this landuse under the QPLEP and utilise the loophole of Clause 2.9(3) of the State Environmental Planning Policy (Resources and Energy) 2021 (‘the SEPP’) to justify its need described “by virtue” in the EIS.

The C2 Environmental Conservation zone under the QPLEP does not permit ‘agriculture’ or ‘industry’. Therefore Clause 2.9(3)(b) would prohibit the extractive industry occurring on this section of land under the C2 zoning.

The extractive industry goes against all objectives of both zones. I have further comments below on biodiversity.

The “Cumulative impacts” are assessed as 'acceptable.' This is wrong and will have detrimental impacts.

THE TRAFFIC STUDY IS FLAWED
The traffic report had traffic surveys undertaken on Thursday 27 May to Wednesday 9 June 2021 (inclusive) on the Monaro Highway north of Old Cooma Road was during the beginning of the Victorian lockdowns and 11 days before NSW went into lockdown where work from home was a necessity. This greatly distorts any type of traffic modelling done. The data would accurately reflect the Monaro Highway traffic during snow season. They removed the data of the ACT public holiday as they felt that inflated the traffic count. The report models a conservative traffic count showing a daily average of 4,400 vehicles in 2021 equating to an average weekly total of 30,800 vehicles (Table 2.1 (p. 8)). One look at the TfNSW Counter 6114 at Bredbo shows that peak demand during winter in 2024 (week of 15 July 2024) reaching up to 61,510 vehicles in both directions and 58,007 (week of 3 July 2023). I understand that the traffic report disputes the distance of the TfNSW Counter 6114 to the project site, the estates between the project site to the traffic counter would not generate the total difference of additional numbers of traffic given the lack of population density.

Limitations on Old Cooma Road is supported however it will be at the detrimental of commuters on the Monaro Highway. The residents of Royalla and those estates off Old Cooma Road who head to the Monaro Highway from both Old Cooma Road and Royalla Drive will be impacted and further up the road network that connects Tuggeranong residents onto the Monaro Highway. A laden and unladen truck will move inbound and outbound every minute from 5am to 6pm Monday to Saturday. This is simply not safe. This is not liveable.

Flaws in the report include lack of consideration of general maintenance undertaken by TfNSW during the snow season from June long weekend to the October long weekend where works cannot occur before 12pm on Mondays and after 12pm on Fridays on the Monaro Highway. Yet these trucks will be free to haul on the Monaro Highway in droves.

The traffic report does not consider the bottleneck experienced at the Johnson Drive and Monaro Highway roundabout. This is not appropriately assessed in the EIS cumulative impacts. More traffic is then experienced at the Rose Cottage roundabout and that is not considered.

The prohibition of use of any Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Roads is supported however the EIS (p. 2-31) states that extended operating hours could be considered if truck movements are directed to the Monaro Highway! The proposed condition consent will have adverse effects. This is the main reason why I am objecting to this development as there are no amenable alternatives to the traffic.

The traffic estimates a maximum of 710 trips per day including quarry product dispatch, VENM/EMN importation, concrete and asphalt transportation. This introduces inbound laden truck movements which will have an accumulative impact on the Monaro Highway and the amenity.

There is no consideration of the impact of the school bus run as it enters onto the Monaro Highway.

There are no considerations on wet weather contingencies that should form part of a Driver Code of Conduct.

THE NOISE REPORT IS 'CONSERVATIVE'
It is noted in relation to the above, the report by the Octave Acoustics models noise based on the traffic figures from 2021. Octave Acoustics utilizes the minimum daily volume, specifically the date of Wednesday 9 June 2021, stating it would provide a “conservative assessment from the perspective of relative change. The existing proportion of heavy vehicles used is also conservative, as heavy vehicles are likely to avoid peak hour delays where possible”.

This modelling is flawed. The haulage operations are to begin at 5:00am through to 6:00pm Mondays to Saturdays. The EIS does not accurately assess the reality of maximum daily vehicle numbers. The assumption in the noise report that the operator will not commence heavy vehicle inbound and outbound movements during peak hour is not reflected in the Traffic report thus their assumption the noise is not an issue - because it has not been appropriately modelled.

In other words, the reports within the EIS are not talking to each other.

WHERE IS THE VENM/ENM COMING FROM?
The quarry proposes to import VENM/ENM under NSW EPA approval processes. Claiming that 'where possible, material would be transported to the Project Site via trucks returning from the delivery of quarry products to customer’. However, the quarry's market is based in the ACT. This requires ACT EPA approval. Where will the VENM/ENM come from? Who will check on this process? The amount is enormous. How will the local Council's compliance officers monitor this situation? That those trucks are carrying VENM/ENM and not other hazardous waste. This is a burden to the rate payer to resource this function!

The location of the project is selected based on a profitability distance to the ACT to reduce haulage cost and the market demand in the ACT. Between the project site to the south, there is limited NSW development that would generate the volume of VENM/ENM that the project requires.

VENM/ENM from NSW would need to be obtained to the east meaning haulage along Old Cooma Road or through other parts of the Queanbeyan- Palerang local government area before entering the Monaro Highway if they are truly obtaining VENM/ENM from NSW. A little tricky when you as the road authority are not allowing access?

The Proponent needs to clarify where the VENM/ENM is coming from?

SAVE ENCHANTED HILL
In 2008, QPRC commissioned a report on Biodiversity in the local government area. This report celebrated the importance of Enchanted Hill, describing it as 'remnant and regrowth Dry Forest, Native Grasslands and Grassy Woodlands associated with the Enchanted Hill area in the south-west of the LGA.'

The EIS states that 55.39 hectares of Monaro-Queanbeyan Rolling Hills Grassy Forest and 22.84 hectare Southern Tableland Grassy Box Woodland will be cleared.

The ecosystems to be cleared, leads to detrimental impacts to our Pink-tailed Legless Lizard; Key's Matchstick Grasshopper; Pale Pamaderris; Small Purple-pea and Silky Swainson-pea.

Why does so much land need to be cleared? This is because the 2008 report clearly identifies that accessibility to Enchanted Hill was difficult. The mass destruction is because the site has challenging terrain. So for profit for a few, the flattening around Enchanted Hill before quarry materials are hauled is the reason. We are compromising biodiversity importance because the terrain is challenging. Enchanted Hill is a sacred hill. So are its surrounds.

CONTRIBUTIONS FOR INCONVENIENCE
Contributions for inconvenience will never make up for the excessive water usage, biodiversity destruction, dust, traffic accidents that may result in fatality and the detrimental impact this will have on all Royalla residents and those residents who travel along Old Cooma Road to enter onto the Monaro Highway. No amount of money will ever take away the fact that this development will destroy the Royalla estate and those who commute along Old Cooma Road or out from Royalla Drive and detriment to drivers from Tuggeranong.

Thank you for considering my submission. I hope I have highlighted at a minimum the flaws in the EIS that based on its merits, cannot be approved in its current format.

My family purchased a block ~14 yrs ago to build our forever home, out of a town for fresh, clean air,  space for children and adults to live more of life outside with active pursuits. We knew of the existing quarries which informed our decision on the "where" to buy & build. The proposed location was farming land. 


Over the years we have met families that reside near the existing, learned of how the operations affect their lives, electrical brown outs causing equipment to burn out with regularity, blasting rocking their houses, layer of dust, that we now know is silica dust which has led to the Australian ban of man-made bench tops due to the impact on health.
The proposed location does not have my or my community's support ( no social licence) for multiple reasons,some of which are below:
Impact on health from silica dust transmissionBiodiversity negative impacts.. the site is home to many species of flora and fauna, some are already critically endangered such as the box gum Grassy Woodlands,Massive increase in number of large , heavy trucks on district roads that are already subpar with increased lighter traffic from the housing developments , including Googong who traverse the Old Cooma road onto Monaro highway to enter the ACT for work.  There has been an increase in accidents at that intersection with this proposal bringing in an excessive, unmanaged risk with much larger vehicles .  The local council is proportedly unable to upgrade the Old Cooma road near Googong township due to the endangered gum trees beside it.. how then can the critically endangered box gum woodland be sacrificed for this venture?This raises many questions that should be answered in a public hearing:
Will the NSW government cover the cost of upgrades BEFORE  the proposed quarry enters into production? How can the NSW government guarantee access from the site to the monaro highway given the recent ruling by ACT planning relating to the strip of land - DA202442874Will the NSW government ENSURE/GUARANTEE that the proposed mitigations contained within the proposal are implemented BEFORE production would commence and MAINTAIN quarterly physical reviews for the life of the operation that all requirements are consistently met to protect flora and fauna along with the human residents and their quality of life?Will the unfortunate folk within immediate vicinity be recompensed as their proper value plummets along with their quality of life?Do any of the proponents actually reside within the critical, scientifically proven danger zone for the operations and if so,  will they remain there with their families if operations commence?
Would the minister move their family and friends to live within the transmission zone of the silica dust?

For us, the local residents, our water supply is from rainfall collected from our roofs and stored in tanks.
What will the silica particles in our tanks do to our and our children's health?
Where are the long term studies for that?
Will we be provided with the necessary filtration systems and ongoing servicing,  replacement filters etc at NO cost?

It's not nibism when there are already 3 active quarries in the near vicinity, which by all accounts have many years left in them. I hold reservations that the stated employment grow is unlikely, suspect it would more likely be same resources that are already engaged across the existing quarries and recycling centres.

Perhaps a more gentile and sustainable option that is environmentally friendly for the local flora and fauna & acknowledges existing residents, roads, water quality, energy supplies, health concerns.. should be investigated rather than a disruptive, damaging venture that appears to benefit few. 

The decision should not be based on fiscal gains for NSW government and the owners of the proposal at the expense of the existing inhabitants, flora, fauna and human.
A public hearing is called for, with representations from the unfunded, heavily impacted locals, both NSW and ACT residents & the existing quarries to publically present the  qualified current % of production, any plans for expansion & end of production / life expectation.

As a resident of Conder since 1996 having built our home in this unique and beautiful area with an abundance of wildlife at our doorstep , we are located backing nature reserve near the power station on Tuggeranong Hill, are concerned the impact this Quarry will have on not only the environment but also the impact of blasting and silica dust and the increased traffic congestion of heavy machinery leaving the site.

Our house is estimated to be only 3-4 km away based on where the escavation is located on the proposal.

Blasting on the sites will definitely be felt at our home and could cause movement or subsidence and property damage. On the proposal and environmental submission, monitors were being placed in all suburbs for vibration and noise. One monitor is placed next to the power station near us. This is a major power station providing power to Lanyon Valley and adjacent suburbs. Explosions in the area has a probability of affecting our power grid. Also what is the expected Db from the site and how will this impact those living closest? More studies need to be done!

Explosions would be heard as we currently hear loud trucks on the monaro highway especially when entering into the roundabout off Monaro to Johnson Drive. As this is only a single lane on Monaro congestion will be an issue as well as noise from heavy trucks breaking going downhill to traverse the roundabout. During peak snow season the situation would be more congestion. The proposal indicated additional 500 trucks per day and current road structure may not support this and may require expansion and traffic lights to enter and exit the site.

Further the impact of dust and pollution will impact residence. Coastal breezes would push dust particles over the Lanyon Valley as well as Theodore Calwell and adjoining suburbs. We live in a windy area being on the tablelands with mountain ranges. Silica dust is a concern if not properly managed with sprinkler systems.
I am a novacastrian lived in Newcastle where mines and polution was a big issues being an industrial area. My parents home recently underwent soil testing due to a Gas works once existed on the property next door to them. The result was they were inside acceptable levels but other homes were demolished and the land detoxified by the local council which resulted in 35 homes having excessive level of toxins including petroleum products and arsenic. They were also advised not to consume and fruit or vegetables grown on their land.

I mine of this magnitude would require a depot to store feul and other toxic materials that would affect waterways with run-off. Environmentally this could affect local and endangered wildlife as well as residences in Royalla. Run-off can also impact local streams that feed areas of heritage significance such as London Bridge in Burra Or worse still run off into local water supply in Googong Dam and Tuggeranong.

Location of this Quarry would impact 31,000 residents in ACT / NSW in close proximity and 92,000 in 10kms. It is situated too close to residential areas.

If you look at Boral Quarries Seaham in Balckera which is a 30-40 million ton mine for asphalt and aggregates for concrete in Newcastle it shows pictures of the type of mining activity that would take place in Royalla. The proposal here is similar but it is located near a major residential areas unlike the Boral mine. The proposed site is 67.6ha mine site being 21ha with auxiliary processing plants for asphalt, concrete mixing and recycling.

When looking at emissions and impact of mine the contours reach as far as the Rob Roy Range facing monaro hwy. Homes are less than 1km away from this point so am concerned about pollution should wind gusts exceed the model used in the epa study.

BLAST NOISE IS ANOTHER MAJOR CONCERN.

If we can here Train whistle from locomotive on the railway line to Royalla we would surely hear a blast. Which could dramatically impact certain residences and individuals with PTSD or sensory processing issues as well as respiratory issues.

My concerns have not entirely been satisfied therefore I object to the project.

Regards
Carmelina and Gregory Stokoe
Resident of

I would like to raise objections to the planned new Monaro Rock quarry in Royalla. I have read the Environment Impact Submission and am concerned by numerous aspects of the plan.
Operating up to 12 hours a day, six days a week, this quarry is estimated to extract up to 1,000,000 tonnes of rock annually from land that has been environmentally protected. In addition to this, Monaro Rock plan to crush up to 20,000 tonnes of concrete and produce up to 150,000 tonnes of asphalt on site. This level of industrial activity will completely transform the corridor between Royalla and Hume and have profound and lasting impacts on the residents in this area, those who use the Monaro Highway, and potentially anyone who lives within a 20kms radius of the site who may be subjected to negative health outcomes. I will be extremely disappointed if the NSW Government allows the profits of a private company to trump the lifestyle, health and land considerations of thousands of people. Following are my primary concerns:

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
• I am concerned at the destruction of Enchanted Hill, an existing area of 22.44 hectares of Box Gum grassy woodland which would be destroyed by this venture. There is less than 5% of this type of land left anywhere in world and it deserves to be protected. This quarry could be built elsewhere, or products sourced from elsewhere; we cannot recreate established Box Gum grassy woodland and such a thriving ecosystem.
• I also note from the EIS that an additional 77HA of land will be partially destroyed. This biodiversity should be protected.
• This area is next to the Melrose Reserve and a number of other reserves.
• I object that the proposed quarry would allow runoff into the Tuggeranong Creek
• My understanding is that this land has been identified as a C2 environmental conservation protection zone and as an RU2 rural landscape. I understood that to mean that this land had been protected from incompatible development. The specified purpose of a C2 zone is to “protect, manage and restore areas of high ecological, scientific, cultural or aesthetic values” and to “prevent development that could destroy, damage or otherwise have an adverse effect on those values.” How does a quarry meet any of these conservation objectives?

STATE SIGNIFICANT PROJECT
• This is being called a ‘State Significant Project’ due to the predicted capital it will raise. But the financial benefits of the quarry will primarily service private companies (2 families), not the public. And they will primarily serve the interests of the ACT, not NSW.
• I am disappointed that this quarry has been proposed to be placed within a country estate and especially on land that has already been protected.

ROAD/SAFETY IMPACT
• I am concerned about the number of additional trucks on the Monaro Highway. The addition of between 200 and 500 truck movements per day will have a negative ongoing impact on this section of the highway.
• It will require, in time, the need for substantial construction, which will significantly impact the ability of Royalla and regional residents to get to and from the ACT for work. And, prior to this work being undertaken, it will place up to 500 truck journeys on smaller country roads.
• Several hundred trucks journeys per day will take a toll on the highway. 240 fully laden trucks leaving the site each day and lead to significant bottlenecks at the roundabout near Calwell.
• I already travel a substantial amount of time each day to work at a hospital in the ACT. I am concerned about delays from the additional activity of trucks, the wear and tear to the road, and the delays for roadworks and changes. When I moved to rural NSW earlier this year, the one concern I had was my difficulty in getting to work if the Monaro Highway were every substantially slowed down or out of commission for periods of time.
• I am extremely concerned about the additional danger on the Monaro Highway of so many heavy-laden trucks crossing across the lanes and then needing to get up to speed, all which travelling up an incline in an area that is known to be dangerous in respect of traffic accidents. The existing trucks from the other quarries and logging trucks are already at speed on the highway, not trying to join and speed up near a crest. There have been accidents at that exact locations where trucks have cleaned up cars. This seems unnecessarily dangerous.
• The assessments of impact of trucks etc, that I have read seem to be based on just the activity for the rock extraction part of the quarry, not even including the asphalting and concreting components.

EXISTING QUARRIES and NEED
• The EIS Assessment of Economic Need is largely based on projected population growth in the ACT over the coming years. So why can’t Monao Rock construct a quarry away from this suburban area and then transport the products? It seems counter-intuitive to argue that, because of the increasing population in this area, that they should locate a quarry in the same area.
• There are four existing quarries within 30 kilometres of the proposed site.
• This quarry is not critical to supply. Nearby quarries have over 80 years life in them, more than enough to supply demand. Other quarries in the area do not seem to be operating at capacity, workers have recently been laid off. Annual reports indicate they are operating at 40% capacity.
• The EIS states “Because of geological, geographical, ecological, environmental amenity and land use constraints, other than the subject proposed quarry, there are no other known equivalent or realistically prospective ‘greenfield’ hard rock sites available to meet the projected demand for aggregates in the Canberra-Queanbeyan region of the demand catchment… If the Monaro Rock Quarry is not approved, then the shortfall in local supply of crushed aggregates to the ACT-Queanbeyan region from around 2030 onwards will increasingly need to be met by importing aggregates from more distant high capacity hard rock quarries such as those at Marulan in the NSW Southern Highlands, around 125-130km by road from Canberra and Queanbeyan. If aggregates were sourced from these more distant quarries, because of the cost of freight and distance by road the importation would, as a minimum, increase the delivered cost of the aggregate to Canberra and Queanbeyan region by around 40-45%. In addition, there are indirect costs to the broader community from ‘externalities’ such as greenhouse gas emissions from fuel burn, road safety and additional road wear and tear impacts, because of the additional heavy vehicle kilometres hauled.” This seems to be the perfect explanation as to why NOT to build a new quarry. There are existing quarries that could be used. Quarries impact all the externalities listed above. Similar hard rock exists in many locations between here and the coast. The assertion that increased transport costs would increase the cost of materials by 40-45% is laughable. It seems that the entire cost of the new quarry, and the resulting infrastructure, could be saved by utilising existing quarries. The EIS raises concerns about increased traffic and environment impact for an existing quarry, but not for the NSW/ACT region of building an entire new quarry? This does not make sense.

HEALTH IMPACTS
• 31,000 ACT and NSW residents live within five kilometres of the site. 92,000 residents live within ten kilometres. The nearest Royalla residents are only 1.6km away. ACT residents are only 2.6km away.
• Silica dust and noise can travel further than this in all directions. Royalla is an extremely windy place, which will exacerbate the transportation of silica dust. This dust will blow all over a region that is off town water. Meaning silica will be on the roof of my house, which will then be in my water tank, and then in my body.
• Silica dust can have devastating effects on a person’s health.
• There was not sufficient data provided in the EIS about the possible spread of silica given the high amount of wind in Royalla.
• Residents near the existing Williamsdale Quarry have consistently had issues with silica produced from that site.

IMPACTS ON ROYALLA
• I am concerned about the heavy usage the quarry would have on groundwater, which is a precious and needed supply for our rural community. It would also require profound amounts of electricity.
• We are a rural community. People ride horses and walk along the streets. My family and I paid a substantial amount of money to buy into Royalla recently because it is considered a desirable country lifestyle and to allow for medical conditions within my family. This proposed quarry would negatively affect our quality of life. The idea of the quarry is already causing me considerable stress.

CONCLUSION
I propose that the Monaro Rock project be located at a different site; one away from a rural estate and a location which would have such profound impacts on the ACT and this region of NSW. From reading the EIS, I do not believe that this project will be that financially lucrative for the NSW Government, given the amount of funding that will need to be expended in respect of water provision, electricity grid capability, and road construction, among other considerations. I hope that the money to be gained by two businesses will not trump the health, wellbeing and livelihoods of thousands. This proposal seems to provide for the profits of the few at the risk of the many. I do not think it is the right thing for the NSW Government to build a new quarry in an existing rural community and in close proximity to tens of thousands of ACT and NSW residents. We know enough as a society about the environment, health and social impacts of quarries to know that this is a harmful idea.

Thank you for your consideration of these objections and I hope that this quarry will not proceed.

The increased heavy vehicle traffic should not be allowed on ACT or NSW roads without major road works being undertaken beforehand. The increase in noise and dust should not be allowed in such a heavily populated area.