Update on Magellan Metals

• Trace amount of Magellan lead found at Leonora Rail Yards
• Level nearly three times below accepted industrial standards
• Magellan operations remain suspended

Environment Minister Bill Marmion has announced the detection of a small amount of Magellan Metals' lead at the Leonora Rail Yards.

The yards are zoned for industrial use and the lead level is nearly three times below the allowable standard for industrial areas.

Magellan Metals ceased operations, including the transportation of lead concentrate, in April 2011. 

Despite being in care and maintenance, Magellan Metals has continued its full sampling program along the transport route as required under the Interim Implementation Conditions issued by the Minister on February 24, 2011.

 
"Given that Magellan's operations remain suspended, the results are likely to reflect historical issues prior to April 2011," Mr Marmion said.

The Minister said he was advised by the Office of the Environmental Protection Authority on the evening of October 24 that routine sampling had detected lead in a soil sample.

"I have ordered Magellan Metals to work with the Department of Health and the Department of Environment and Conservation to determine the source and extent of the lead," he said.

      Fact File

• Lead levels appropriate for industrial use are 1,500mg/kg
• The Magellan lead sample at the Leonora Rail Yard was 540mg/kg
• The Department of Environment and Conservation is investigating

Minister's office - 9220 5000