A magnitude 3.5 earthquake was recorded at Fosterville Gold Mine in Victoria, triggered by underground mining activities. The quake was felt by residents up to Glen Huntly, but it was deemed minor and unlikely to cause damage. Geoscience Australia’s Senior Seismologist, Jonathan Bathgate, and mine officials confirmed the incident as a mine-induced seismic event, assuring public safety and outlining community support measures.
In Victoria, a magnitude 3.5 earthquake was triggered by underground activities at the Fosterville Gold Mine, located approximately 26 kilometers northeast of Bendigo. The quake was recorded at 6:41 AM, drawing reports from 47 individuals across the state, with tremors felt as far as Glen Huntly, Melbourne. Geoscience Australia’s Senior Seismologist, Jonathan Bathgate, characterized the earthquake as minor, stating that short-lived shaking is typical of such events, and did not anticipate any aftershocks or damage. Bathgate explained, “Often times, with earthquakes of this size, people report hearing them more than they do the shaking because they are quite short. It is a really loud boom or a really short and sharp jolt and then it’s over and done with.” Fosterville Gold Mine confirmed the occurrence of a “mine-induced seismic event,” attributing it to their mining operations. A mine spokesperson noted, “Mine-induced seismicity is complex; the mechanisms are similar to an earthquake, however, they are related to our mining activities. Our people are safe…We have our dedicated community engagement team available” to address any community concerns. The underground mine, operated by Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, is the largest gold producer in the state, reportedly altering rock pressure and causing vibrational releases during extraction. Geoscience Australia has noted an increase in seismic activity in Victoria, with 38 earthquakes reported this year alone, ranging from 1.4 to 4.3 magnitudes. Bathgate mentioned that Victoria is among Australia’s more seismically active regions, with regular recordings of earthquakes, predominantly minor, across the country. In light of such occurrences, the Victorian State Emergency Service recommends residents adopt precautions during earthquakes, including dropping, taking cover, and holding on.
The occurrence of mine-induced seismic events is closely related to the extraction processes used in underground mining. Fosterville Gold Mine, operated by the Canadian company Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, underscores the complexities of seismicity that can arise during mining activities. These activities can alter the internal pressure of the rock, potentially leading to seismic responses similar to natural earthquakes. Victoria is recognized as one of Australia’s seismically active regions, with ongoing monitoring conducted by Geoscience Australia to track seismic activities across the state.
In summary, the magnitude 3.5 earthquake in central Victoria, attributed to activities at Fosterville Gold Mine, underscores the interaction between mining operations and seismic events. With comprehensive monitoring systems and community support initiatives, the mine aims to address public concerns regarding mine-induced seismicity. Despite the occurrence of such events, authorities like Geoscience Australia reassure that they tend to be minor and infrequent, encouraging preparedness among residents.
Original Source: www.9news.com.au
