Social Impact Assessment - McArthur River Mining

Situation Analysis
Regardless, community interest and participation are strong, with a keen focus on connecting with the
natural environment through physical and spiritual means. Family and cultural values are fiercely protected
and this contributes to the sense of community within the towns.
Volunteering is often a key indicator of community vitality and the willingness of community members to
contribute to the growth and wellbeing of their town. Figure 9 provides comparative details of volunteer
involvement in Borroloola, the Gulf SLA and Australia.
Figure 9: Percentage of People Who Undertook Unpaid Volunteer Work in the Preceding 12 Months
Source: ABS 2006
This data, sourced from the ABS, indicates volunteer involvement in the Gulf SLA and Borroloola CGC SLA is
approximately half of the Australian involvement rate. Consultation feedback indicates however that this
statistic is more a reflection of limited opportunities to engage in volunteer work or unpaid work, and a
preference to view some work as cultural business rather than ‘volunteering’.
Despite these percentages, volunteer involvement and recognition of volunteer work in Borroloola, King Ash
Bay and Robinson River continue to remain important. In May 2011, MRM sponsored the inaugural
Borroloola Gold Heart Award Night, which recognised the contribution of volunteers in the community. A
large number of people attended this event further reinforcing the importance of community interest and
involvement, while strengthening commitment to each other and the town.
Research suggests the proposed Project would not have any negative impacts on the community’s values,
aspirations, existing lifestyles or enterprises should it go ahead, but rather produce benefits to further
enhance and celebrate the amenity and liveability of the townships, together with providing tangible and
significant opportunities for enterprise establishment, growth and sustainability.
“It will have a positive impact – it will support Traditional Owners to look after country, maintain cultural
ties, and it will be a step in the right direction moving forward.”
Taken from Government Site Tour held on 2 August 2011.
“I have attended the previous community consultations and the level of information being provided has
been good. I’ve only heard positive feedback and comments with regard to the expansion...the feeling is
that there is something for everybody and that everyone will be better off.”
Taken from meeting with local agencies held on 21 July 2011.
Phase 3 Development Project ----- Social Impact Assessment 38