State calls out Hanson for insufficient information
By Sonia Isaacs
THE State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) and the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) have raised concerns over Hanson’s application to double rock extraction rates at the Glass House Quarry site, citing potential issues under the Human Rights Act 2019. Both SARA and DESI have queried the application, stating it does not provide sufficient information about the potential impact of the proposed development on the cultural heritage and rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
In a letter addressed to Hanson on September 2, SARA highlighted that the application material includes only a single paragraph about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural heritage. The letter also noted that Hanson referenced a heritage study nearly 30 years old, historic land use, and existing approvals—evidence which SARA deemed insufficient to demonstrate that the cultural heritage impacts of intensifying and prolonging the quarry’s use in a culturally significant area had been properly considered.
DESI and SARA have now requested that Hanson supply a detailed Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Report. This report is expected to provide a comprehensive description of the cultural and spiritual values associated with the site, their significance, and their ongoing cultural use, including nearby areas such as Mount Coonowrin and Coonowrin Creek.
The agencies also called for information on any culturally or spiritually significant sites, places, or artefact scatters found on the quarry site or within a 500-metre radius of its borders. Although the SARA advice notice does not impose a specific time frame for this additional information, Hanson has until September 27 to respond to a separate information request submitted by Sunshine Coast Council.
A spokesperson for Hanson was reluctant to disclose details about the company’s engagement with the Jinibara People’s Aboriginal Corporation (JPAC). “Hanson has actively and constructively engaged with JPAC’s directors and their legal representatives at Parallax Legal, and we will continue to engage positively on matters of cultural heritage,” the spokesperson said. “This engagement is ongoing, and Hanson does not believe it is appropriate to comment publicly on JPAC’s cultural heritage.”
Hanson also refuted claims of inadequate consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples regarding the proposal, stating that the planning and assessment process for the Glass House development is progressing as expected. “During the assessment process, applicants and assessors work to time frames, and extensions are common to ensure adequate time for information gathering and review,” the spokesperson added.
The Glass House Quarry borders the determined native title areas of both the Jinibara and Kabi Kabi peoples. GC&M News has approached JPAC for comment.
