Chairman's Annual Report or 2011 - Mandalong Community Consultative Committee
The Community Members of the Mandalong CCC have asked if I would report for the year 2011 in writing to the Director General and I believe that this request is a reasonable one and have agreed to do so.
At the outset I would like to say that I and all representatives of the CCC acclaim the quality of the
minutes of meetings which provide a true and accurate record.
It is a privilege for me to be Independent Chairman of this committee because of the constructive
relationship between Centennial Coal and the Mandalong Community Association (MCA), which
Association comprises most of the Community Representatives on the CCC.
One of the progressive moves, especially from the Community’s point of view was to change the Agenda
structure of CCC meetings by placing Community Concerns at the top of the Agenda.
As at the writing of this Report the MCA have signaled that their major issue at the moment deals with
the property management of the 42 Centennial owned properties in the Mandalong Mine area and this
issue will certainly be dealt with at all CCC meetings.
Another issue of importance to the Community is the management of major wetlands on property owned by the Company, of particular interest is the historical data records/mapping of wetlands. I am assured by the Company that this matter is being very closely looked at and I shall certainly follow this through.
On a number of CCC Committees over which I preside in respect of several coal companies, concern is
expressed about the auditing process conducted by the Department of Planning. I have raised this issue with the Department and am awaiting a reply which should be forthcoming early in the New Year.
The MCA have indicated that the Mandalong South exploration and planning process is an important one and it could occupy a good deal of time in 2012. I must say that the Company’s appointed officer in connection with Mandalong South has been particularly forthcoming and I have no doubt that he will give a good account of his stewardship in 2012.
Regarding Methane Gas emissions, there have been some comments about the slow pace of the progress in reducing these emissions, but I believe that due process here will see this concern met.
The Company’s dedicated officers are a pleasure to deal with and in my experience are always courteous, professional and helpful. I meet with the representatives of the MCA privately in between meetings and I have found that this is a very helpful use of time. I thank the Company and I thank the MCA for their helpfulness and their positive approach at all times.
MILTON MORRIS AO
Chairman
February 2012
by MCA Executive
