McArthur River coctail

Heavy metals in our rivers! What price are we willing to pay for access to one of Australia’s largest Zinc and Lead deposits?

When it comes to the damage done by increased concentrations of heavy metals in our rivers it seems that graphic metaphor is not needed. Of course the destruction of habitat and accumulative effects of pollution from mining could be graphically dramatized by images of a flesh eating monster consuming all life in its path. This metaphorical image would surely embody the long-term effects of a Lead and Zinc mine seepinh by-products into our fresh, estuarine and saltwater systems. Naturally the image of such a monster would make a powerful impression but it would of course be highly suggestive and emotive and appropriately be labeled as anti mining propaganda.

However when a real flesh eating bacteria is found to be killing people in the waterways downstream of such a mine and it is suggested there may be a link between an increasing occurrence of the bacteria and high levels of heavy metals; then we have a situation that realizes our worst fears!

Recent news reports have disclosed that there is a possible link between four confirmed cases of people affected by the bacteria (three of them now dead). Coincidentally there happens to be higher than normal readings of heavy metals in the waters downstream of the McArthur River Mine. – (ABC News Online Last Update: Wednesday, February 28, 2007. 9:05pm (AEDT)

Links to the latest news on flesh eating bacteria HERE.

As expected Xstrata is denying any connection between their operations and the possible increase of occurrence of this bacterium. But as there is no conclusive link their denial may be premature or even pre-emptive. I am no scientist but I would expect for them to be able to deny or accept fault would come down to the answer of two questions.

What is the connection between the bacteria and increased levels of heavy metals in the McArthur River?

1. What is the connection between the McArthur River Mine and the increased occurrence of heavy metals down stream of the mine?

Of course there are many other questions surrounding the bacteria and the mine. However if there is any connection between the bacteria and heavy metals and if it is shown that the mine is responsible for the increase in heavy metals in the river a denial would be ridiculous!

Apparently Yanyuwa, Mara, Garrawa and Gurdanji people from the McArthur River area are challenging, in court, the Government’s decision to approve the mine. They should be supported in their brave stand and encouraged to fight! They are fighting not only for their rights but for the rights of all Australians and particularly Territorians to an honest unbiased and transparent development aproval process. Although they are seemingly alone in their action to defend this river that is so precious to many Territorians, not to mention it's likely value to the fishing industry, I am hopeful that more of us will join this worthy cause! The seriousness of this issue is becoming undeniably obvious. For more information Click HERE.

Please follow my links to the "Don’t Muck up the McArthur" website and support the fight against this disgraceful treatment of one of our nations great rivers. Show the Australian and Territory Governments that we do value our water resources and remaining natural habitats and that we will not stand for their destruction at the hands of an unethical mining company!