General News
9 February, 2023
Council disheartened by ongoing illegal prospecting
Maryborough’s Jubilee Oval was vandalised this week leaving the community disappointed — with over a dozen holes dug in the ground by alleged prospectors, the incident is a reminder of similar damage done to Phillips Gardens last year. Thirteen...
Maryborough’s Jubilee Oval was vandalised this week leaving the community disappointed — with over a dozen holes dug in the ground by alleged prospectors, the incident is a reminder of similar damage done to Phillips Gardens last year.
Thirteen holes were dug in the oval overnight on Tuesday, prompting a message from officials against prospecting on council land.
“We are disappointed by the damage made to Jubilee Oval in Maryborough on Tuesday night. Last year we saw similar damage at Phillips Gardens and we understand the damage has been caused by people prospecting on council land,” Central Goldfields Shire Council general manager infrastructure, assets and planning Matthew Irving said.
“We’d like to remind our community that whilst prospecting is encouraged within the shire it is not permitted on council land. A licence is required from Earth Resources Victoria for gold prospecting or fossicking, and there are specific places where it is allowed.”
Illegal prospecting has been an ongoing trend in Maryborough going back to 2010. In the last two years alone, Phillips Gardens has fallen victim twice — in 2021 a total of 40 holes were dug in the gardens and Princes Park.
Mr Irving said the maintenance of public land in the shire is important for the council and reminded residents that there were other spaces in the region dedicated for prospecting.
“Our Parks and Gardens team do a wonderful job of ensuring our reserves are in excellent condition for weekend sport. The team will do everything they can this week to ensure the oval is ready for this weekend’s competition,” he said.
“Council takes pride in its public spaces and reserves and the appearance of public spaces is one of council’s highest performing areas in the most recent Community Satisfaction Survey.
“The Central Goldfields Shire is home to various locations where gold prospecting or fossicking is encouraged and permitted.”
For a list of suggested locations ideal for prospecting visit: www.bendigoregion.com.au/visit-maryborough-surrounds-victoria/gold-prospecting-detecting
The community is also being asked to contact the Maryborough Police Station on 5460-3300 if they see someone prospecting on council land.