Sticking to anti antimony stance

Clarence environmentalist John Edwards with a “blueprint” of a new sticker protesting the idea of antimony mining in the Clarence water supply.

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A NEW bumper-sticker campaign launched by environmental groups calls on the State Government to stop plans for an antimony mine on the Dorrigo Plateau at the headwaters of the Nymboida River.

Residents protesting the proposed reopening of the Wild Cattle Creek mine last month funded the sticker, along with a donation by PepperPrint Colour Printers in Coffs Harbour.

Chinese-owned Anchor Resources holds a licence to explore the Bielsdown site, but no approval has been issued for mining.

Groups including Dorrigo Environment Watch, Antimony Action, NSW Greens and North Coast Voices fear that any mining activity in the high-rainfall area could lead to contamination of the Clarence/Coffs Harbour water supply.

"The effects of antimony poisoning are similar to arsenic poisoning," a Greens statement on the issue said. "In small doses, antimony causes headaches, dizziness and depression.

"Larger doses damage the kidneys and the liver, causing violent and frequent vomiting and will lead to death within a few days; otherwise skin contact causes dermatitis."

The ABC's 7.30 Report covered the story about prior Hillgrove spills, their impact and the Wild Cattle Creek plans in October.

The No Antimony Mine stickers are expected to be available (for a gold coin donation) from today or tomorrow at the Clarence Environment Centre inside The Emporium in Skinner St, South Grafton.