Regis Resources Faces Heritage Protection Challenges Amidst Controversial Gold Mine Project

Nyree Reynolds, a Wiradjuri elder, opposed miner Regis Resources' new dam site, citing cultural heritage concerns. The Australian government's subsequent order to relocate the A$1 billion project, based on Aboriginal heritage protection laws, has stirred debate among mining groups and heightened calls for legal reforms. Multiple projects now face similar reviews.

Nyree Reynolds, a Wiradjuri elder, has vocally opposed Regis Resources' proposed dam site west of Sydney, citing the sacred importance of the Bilabula valley's river. She argues, 'No one has the right to destroy this.'

In response to her objections, the Australian government, in August, mandated that Regis Resources find a new location for their A$1 billion gold project. This decision, under the rarely invoked Aboriginal heritage protection law, has ignited controversy among mining groups. They argue that Regis followed all legal procedures, and the decision introduces a heightened sovereign risk for developers.

The incident underscores ongoing tensions between mining interests and heritage preservation, following the infamous destruction of ancient Aboriginal rock shelters at Juukan Gorge by Rio Tinto four years ago. The call to overhaul heritage protection laws has become increasingly urgent, with several other resources projects now undergoing review under the same law.

(With inputs from agencies.)