Ahead of the finalised review into small-scale titles, Lightning Ridge miners will converge next month to make sure their voice is heard on the changes that could make or break their industry. 

“It’s always nerve-wracking having an independent review for the industry. It could be a big change…we’re just not sure what it could bring,” Lightning Ridge Area Opal Reserve acting reserve manager Victoria Lugovoy said. 

Early last year, a government error meant tools down for small area title miners across the state, pushing miners out of work for weeks. Naturally, hesitation around further regulation has grown since the incident. 

“There’s all kinds of implications. It could change the process of applications, what areas people are allowed to mine, how they’re able to access the land.”

“Whenever something gets put into the limelight there’s always a chance for more regulation and strict guidelines and ruling that can…make people hesitant to want to continue in the industry.”

“For us, that’s a huge concern because if people are unsure what it may bring, if there are more limitations and restrictions, there’s going to be a huge decrease in the amount of people mining out here.”

“That will have a domino effect for the town’s economy, for the greater region, our nation and worldwide.”

Miss Lugovoy said that without proper consultation, miners could see the industry change in ways that don’t work for them.

Of course, the review could also come with benefits to miners, if delivered correctly.

“Consultation so far has been pretty minimal, so that’s why we’re stepping forward to create a public information season for the community to ensure that everybody in the town is aware of what’s going on,” Miss Lugovoy said. 

Prior to the release of the Issues Paper - a precursor to a final review - a team of reviewers visited Lightning Ridge and met with the relevant stakeholders, although Miss Lugovoy said that there was less consultation than expected. 

While there is hope that another meeting with the relevant authority could still take place, no plans have been confirmed ahead of the 28 February deadline. 

The meeting between miners will include a submission support session so that everyone can give feedback to the Issues Paper before the review is due.

Respondents can sit down and get help drafting a submission on questions within the Issues Paper on 5 February at the Lightning Ridge Bowling Club.