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Category: Mining Environmental Issues / Environmental Impact / Regional Development / State Parliament / Clive Palmer

Ammonia levels high again in creeks near Palmer's Queensland Nickel refinery

Thursday, 14 Jul 2016 14:55:04 | Stephanie Smail

Elevated ammonia releases from the refinery could draw hefty fines. (AAP: Andrew Rankin)

Elevated levels of ammonia have again been found in waterways near Clive Palmer's north Queensland nickel refinery.

The Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection (EHP) said the results came from water samples gathered from Blind Creek last month.

In March, the plant's operator, Queensland Nickel Sales (QNS), reported elevated ammonia levels in the same waterway, and nearby Alick Creek.

Those levels exceeded the allowable limits under the company's Environmental Authority.

The refinery sits north of Townsville near Halifax Bay, which is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and World Heritage Area.

QNS could face fines of up to $2.6 million if it is found to have breached environmental regulations.

Environment Minister Steven Miles said the latest sampling results would be considered as part of an ongoing investigation.

"While the refinery is in care and maintenance [mode] and is not currently in production, enforcement orders issued by EHP remain in place to direct Queensland Nickel Sales to ensure environmental protection systems at Yabulu keep operating," Dr Miles said.

"The department is now considering what actions, in accordance with relevant enforcement guidelines, might be taken against the company."

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