Attention all fossickers: New access arrangements in place for 2005

A timely reminder has been issued to those interested in fossicking in New South Wales to comply with new State-wide land access requirements.

Amendments to the Mining Act 1992 governing fossicking were passed by the NSW Parliament in October last year.

The NSW fossicking season will begin in earnest once high summer temperatures ease.

Fossickers are now required to seek the consent of Western Lands Leaseholders prior to entry, as is the case for all other classes of landowners and leaseholders.

Fossicking is enjoyed by thousands of people in NSW. It gives you the opportunity to discover riches and, best of all, it is completely free.

It is a lawful activity under the Mining Act and is not subject to a licence.

However, the State Government recognises the entitlements of landholders, particularly in western NSW where fossicking is particularly popular.

The amendments strike a balance between the rights of landholders and people in search of mineral specimens, gemstones, gold or fossils.

This change will provide the basis for building those relationships for the benefit of both parties.

Landholders are best placed to advise fossickers about the distinctive characteristics of their property. In turn, fossickers bear the responsibility for leaving a site as they found it.

The Department of Primary Industries – Mineral Resources publishes books and fact sheets on fossicking in NSW. Further details are available by following the link: http://www.minerals.nsw.gov.au/prodServices/publications/fossicking2/fossicking.