The application says the exploration will take place around the small town of Cathcart, will extend north towards Norval and is approximately four kilometres west of Ararat.

On their website the mine said: "this licence will enable continual exploration, targeting a known mineralization within the area that could service the future mine plan from existing infrastructure".

As part of of their application, the mine also shared on their website a four-phase, five-year plan.

This plan shows the first year will involve research and data collection, before two years of geological mapping and geochemistry programming.

Finally, in years four and five, the mine will complete a drilling program, after identifying areas of interest.

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The mine also acknowledged the environmental and social responsibility required to complete this project and said "community engagement will be conducted through all stages of exploration".

The mine also said the granting of this licence does not allow any mining activities to take place, as further approval is required.

Anyone who wishes to object to this license can do so by submitting an objection, in writing, either online or to mailed to the Minister for Resources' office.

For more information about the application, visit: https://stawellgoldminescommunityhub.com.au/mineral-licence-application/?fbclid=IwAR3GeuFiyrj91C_KFNvElY_JtZghjxkMRn53TUvYBSCgp8aQ7iP0qlZi2QQ

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