The targeted area was published in BHP Billiton’s interim report to stakeholders last year and largely covers the ridge country of Doona Point, Nicholas Ridge and George’s Island.

The target exploration area excludes the floodplains, except for areas of overlap along the edges of the ridges.

There will be no long wall mining under this small area of overlap; however, there is the possibility of access roadways being constructed deep underground. These roadways will not cause subsidence.

Long wall mining will be restricted to areas under the ridge country within the targeted area, consistent with earlier commitments.

BHP Billiton’s chief development officer for energy coal, Martin Grant, told the Senate Select Committee on Agriculture and Related Industries Inquiry into Food Production in Australia that no mining of any kind would occur outside the targeted zone.

“Three weeks ago the NSW Government amended the Special Conditions of the Caroona Exploration Licence to set in stone protections for the floodplain,” Mr Grant said.

“The amendment prevents BHP Billiton from applying for a mining lease that includes long wall mining underneath the deep alluvial irrigation aquifers; long wall mining underneath the floodplain; and open cut mining on the floodplain.

“The bottom line of all of this is that the existing agricultural use on the flood plains will remain as it is,” Mr Grant said.

“If our Caroona project goes ahead BHP Billiton believes that there are many benefits that the development could bring, including economic stimulation to business and local towns such as Gunnedah and Quirindi, as well as the city of Tamworth.

“In 2006 when the exploration licence was announced the NSW Government estimated that up to 1,000 jobs could be created by a coal mine at Caroona.