Benders Quarry set to close

By Dave Wright

HOBART -- The Benders limestone quarry at Lune River in

south-east Tasmania will cease operation in January, according to federal environment minister Ros Kelly. But the Wilderness Society and other environmental activists are unhappy with the decision, wanting it closed immediately.

The national spotlight fell on the quarry because its exit cave system, stretching 24 kilometres, is the biggest in Australia. It is also listed as a World Heritage Area. Blasting from the quarry has begun to damage sections of the caves.

There has been much toing and froing between the state Liberal and federal Labor governments. The Liberals want to keep the quarry open; Labor can't seen to make up its mind. The community is divided as the debate rages on the jobs versus environment issue.

An alternative quarry site has been proposed at Mayden, where people are desperate for jobs. There, of the 41 families with school age children, 31 are receiving government assistance.

Damage to the caves increases as work continues at the quarry. Environmental activists have begun to slow down work at the site by blocking dozers and earth movers

Two activists were arrested for trespass during a peaceful demonstration at Pasminco Metals EZ, the company that uses the limestone.

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