Mining conglomerate Marathon Resources are fighting to explore for uranium resources in the Arkaroola Wildlife Sanctuary in the Flinders Ranges.
There has been much controversy over the granting of an exploratory license to Marathon Resources, who were caught illegally dumping waste in the Flinders Ranges in 2008.
Although operations within this area were suspended as a result, the company has now agreed to a number of conditions that have been imposed by the South Australian government to keep exploring the region for uranium and other minerals.
However, environmentalists and opposition parties such as Greens MLC Mark Parnell have slammed this decision, suggesting it is a “betrayal” that had been condemned by such environmental groups.
So as the struggle continues, how do those at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary feel?
We were joined by Marg Sprigg, owner of the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, to find out her thoughts on the matter. She told Catherine about the problems Arkaroola have had with Marathon Resources in the past.
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I have experienced more than once the awe of the beauty and history of the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. To think about the destruction of it is beyond comprehension. If mining is allowed here it would not be possible to minimise damage to an environment such as this one which is also home to a number of threatened species. Mining must never be allowed in this unique and pristine area.