Martins Creek Quarry Project

As an employee with Daracon for over 8 years, I support the Daracon Quarry Expansion Proposal for a number of reasons:

* The materials in the quarry are extremely important to support ongoing infrastructure projects in the Hunter Valley.
* The Company is a family business with family values - unlike so many multi-nationals coming into our community, there is a real opportunity to support a local business (it's a shame that when a local business gets some success, so many people want to bring it down).
* There are hundreds upon hundreds of families who rely on Daracon for their household income, which not only boosts the Newcastle economy, but the economies of all the small towns like Martins Creek, Paterson and Dungog.
* I have been impressed by how much they get involved in the communities that they work in. I am aware that they have raised over $1,000,000 for Variety and support so many small local causes as well.

The quarry is an essential business in our area - it needs the ability to expand!

I OPPOSE the Martins Creek Quarry Expansion.

Reasons:-

* BLASTING, NOISE, DUST. I reside approximately 1 km from the quarry. We have experienced significant signs of damage to our property from blasting at the quarry as well as increased noise and dust from the site. Daracon take no responsibility. I doubt they could really care less.

* WILDLIFE HABITAT. Koalas in particular have been sighted in this area & in close proximity to the quarry. Daracon continue to clear habitat.

* TRUCK MOVEMENTS. I am appalled & at times frightened
by the amount of large trucks that we at present share our roads with. To think that Daracon propose to increase this to 80 movements per hour is just unbelievable!! Trucks are travelling on our narrow rural roads, over single-lane timber bridges through a number of rural villages where children wait for school buses and locals conduct their business. The Paterson Valley is a beautiful area with many more families coming to live in the new rural estates. Surely people come before big business. Daracon has shown its arrogance in the past regarding their total disregard for any of us who live here. They have been damaging our roads, travel at high speed & often in convoy. This Martins Creek Quarry expansion CANNOT coexist with the local community. Someone will be injured or even killed.

The expansion of Martins Creek Quarry will have a direct impact on my family & neighbours, being so close to the quarry, with intensification of blasting, noise, dust and more damage and devaluing of our property. Our quality of life is at risk by a company, who by its' actions in the past; have shown a total disregard for the local community and the environment. I have grave concerns for their actions in the future, if their new DA is approved.

So again - I OPPOSE THE MARTINS CREEK QUARRY EXPANSION!!

I believe that the current truck movements have had an adverse impact on the village of Paterson. My property is not impacted by the quarry operations however since Daracon have operated the quarry the extra truck movement with associated noise I believe has been detrimental to the businesses in the village as well as the residential properties which I am sure will be outlined in other submissions. When we first moved to the area the quarry and community co existed comfortably. The quarry was run by state rail and the majority of the product left by rail. I believe that this should still be the case. IE use the rail infrastructure and take it to a siding in a more appropriate area. The operating hours should be determined by the residents of Martins Creek and be a maximum of usual business hours. The community should not bear the cost to make the quarry profitable for Daracon. I would not buy a house or business in Paterson or on the haulage routes.

I have been employed with Daracon for a significant period of time.
Martins Creek Quarry contribute significantly to the Financial success of Daracon, in doing such jobs directly for Daracon are created and maintained, this is not limited just to Daracon but extends further to other companies that support Martins Creek Quarry operation.

See attached letter.

i support the expansion to secure jobs &supply materials for road building

I oppose the Martins Creek quarry expansion because our roads are not built or maintained for such continuous heavy haulage. I am not on a direct truck route but every morning I walk my dogs and this leads me to the noisy, frightening path of semi trailers. We have no footpaths, you walk on the road until the occassional car comes a long then wait patiently on the verge for it to pass. But, not when you get to the intersection of Paterson Road/Duns Creek/Butterwick.....truck after truck trying to negotiate a very sharp zig zag set of corners. They cross to the wrong side of the road leaving pedestrians leaping into the scrub on the side of the road! I'm probably two kilometres away for there route but I hear the clang and bang of empty trucks returning back to the quarry. Use the railway, that's what it was built for.

I oppose The Martins Creek Quarry Expansion. Living on Paterson Rd we experience day-long noise starting at 5.30am which is compounded by compression braking as trucks reduce speeds to take the bend heading down the hill and bumping sounds as trucks travel over varying road surfaces, the result of much road patching due to surface breakdown. Our bedrooms are fitted with roller shutters and still excessive noise is heard and wakes us and often vibrations are felt through the house.
With the noticeable increase in haulage truck volume, exiting our property is often difficult, due to the volume of trucks going on both directions as well as the speed which some often travel, on the downhill journey, fully loaded.
Adding to my concern is the detrimental effect on road surfaces which are necessarily constantly being patched by my council, my rates bearing the costs of a profit making concern in a different council area. Road conditions can only deteriorate with an expected increase in volume of haulage trucks.
I am also very concerned about the impact that the proposed expansion of Martins Creek Quarry will have on the noise and traffic in my community and on my personal rights, as well as the impact it will have on the environment where the proposed expansion is to occur.

I oppose the Martins Creek Quarry expansion.
While I do not have the knowledge to quote figures and so forth, I have concerns on several levels. Slightly removed from our living location is the blasting - while currently we do hear it and occasionally do get a vibration/shake through the house, and yes our 150 year old house has had issues with movement in the last year, I do not know if this is due to the quarry, and until recent discussions with others hadn't even thought of this as a potential cause. I do worry for people I know whose houses are severely affected - how can this be allowed?
More close to home is the impact of the potential increase of trucks and trains. We are one block from Maitland Road, and one block from the railway line. While we hear trains, there aren't so many currently that it is a big impact, and the trains were her before us (have been here 15 years) so obviously that was something I was aware of when buying. I never was aware that the quarry would increase, not to the projected size, which is terrifying.
Trucks - we have regular insurance claims on broken windshields, and significant stone chip damage to our cars due to the trucks. I have a disabled husband who needs to go to medical appointments several times a week, plus I run a home business, the combination of which involves me driving in and out of Paterson often two to three times a day. Trucks tailgating me have caused me to speed through intimidation - being a woman on your own driving with a truck so close behind you that you can only see the top half of the grill is scary. I have cruise control and set my speed to the limit, so I am not going under the limit - they push to make me speed and its awful.
Trucks through Bolwarra Heights - I have seen them regularly come around the bends at the Heights heading south to where the school bus stops, and be still going 80 at the school bus pickup, at the time the bus is there and children are milling around.
In Paterson - the trucks are scary and awful but at the old quarry rates were just something to live with, and tolerable. The proposed increase seems to be impossible for our roads to deal with. The common concerns are the intersection of King and Duke st, where the T instersection is not make for large trucks, which means the swing to get around it. I see people now and again doing u-turns on Duke St to avoid going to that T-intersection, especially if they are needing to turn right to turn around legally, as waiting for a right turn while a truck tries to go around taht corner - well, people tend to reverse rather than be wiped out by a turnign truck. it just can't take it. And now the doctor and the chemist are down King St, more people need to turn right there - how can this happen with the proposed truck rates of movement?
Then there is the bend on Maitland Rd/Duke St near the park and Main Rd. This is again just not suitable for turcks, especially the ones who do not obey speed limits. I was standing near the post office looking down the road just two days ago, and watched a truck come northbound around that bend, swing so wide it was in the car parking area at the side of the road - if there had been a car there, the truck would have had no choice but to run into it, as his wide swing was unavoidable at the speed he was travelling. My husband actually started to run down the road, as he thought the truck would collect the high school students on the footpath! These things happen constantly. The curve is also uphill from the park and the specified childs play area, so in the event there is loss of control on that bend, there is potential for vehicles to roll downhill straight at the small children area. Not to mention children trying to cross roads ...the list goes on. and on.
A proposed increase in trucks will also significantly affect anyone trying to come out of the intersections on King and Church st (school trafffic - lots of right hand turners from there), Main st intersection will be more dangerous than it already is, Albert and William St will also become considerably more difficult to get out of. Sloane st, my street, and therefore a direct impact on myself and my family, already has limited vision when turning right onto Maitland Rd. There is a curve/small hill to the right, and if any vehicle is doing over 50km on Maitland rd, cars from Sloane st can turn right on what seems a clear road, but because of the limited view, can find a speeding car up extremely close behind them, to the point of brakes screeching etc. I cn't imagine how it will even be possible to get out that intersection, especially when there are fuel deliveries to Stockers petrol station, to make seeing to the left nearly impossible as well. So imagine - you can only see about 30m if that to the right, view to the left is often obstructed, and the volume of trucks passing plus normal traffic - it would be a nightmare.
Road deterioration, vehicular damage, intersections and stretches of road made dangerous by a volume of trucks that was never even imagined in the construction of this area, all contribution to degradation of the area, housing and lifestyles, danger to the lives of people in the community, decrease in trade through reduced tourism/weekend holiday makers, and overall misery. Fauna such a brush-tailed phascogales which I believe are listed a Vulnerable, and live in the area, will be impacted adversely by the expansion of the quarry. The only good thing from expansion would be to Daracons pockets, at least until the point where a class action commenced - another impact to the community which is potentially foreseeable. Again, the quarry as it SHOULD be is an asset to the community in terms of local jobs and assets, but the expansion is terrifying, in terms of safety, impacts on property values and the destruction of an area that has been so highly prized for community spirit, closeness, safety for children (I moved here so my children could grow up and get these benefits - they have stayed in this area for their future children, but with an increase why would they?), destruction of natural beauty, potential impact on endangered/vulnerable species of flora(many native orchids etc are in the area that have limited places they can grow)and fauna. . And peace will be gone from everyone's lives.

I oppose the Martins Creek Quarry Expansion.
My family moved to Vacy in 1990 when the quarry was managed by ARTC. We were aware of the quarry prior to purchasing our property and had no objections to its operation. At that time 70% of materials were transported by rail, truck movements were at an acceptable limit, blasting did not impact us, noise and air pollution were not issues.
When the quarry was taken over by Daracon this changed dramatically. Rather than use the existing rail facility, they chose to transport by truck, greatly increasing the number of trucks on the road. Dungog Shire Council has arguably some of the worst roads in NSW. They were not designed for trucks and certainly not the volume of trucks now going to and from the quarry. Also trucks are always in groups of at least 2 and often more at a time. The truck drivers themselves are not the problem, the majority do drive sensibly. However when there are 4 in a row and do not leave sufficient gaps between each other. It is impossible to pass and some impatient drivers take unnecessary risks to do so, which creates safety issues for other drivers. The only way from Martins Creek to Maitland is through Paterson. The road there is narrow with bends which are not conducive to large trucks. It is only a matter of time before there is a serious accident.
Truck noises are heard for much longer hours than previously and are of course louder due to the number of trucks.
Blasting that now occurs is much louder and more often. I now have cracks in my house that were not there prior to Daracon taking over, windows shake. The level of dust is also much higher, I suffer from sinusitis much more.
The local residents choose to live in this are because of its rural beauty and the lifestyle. This is being eroded by noise pollution, air pollution, traffic issues and safety concerns brought about by the expansion of operations at Martins Creek since Daracon took over. The proposed further expansion will only exacerbate already existing issues which still have not been addressed. There should be no increase in the number of hours of operation. Everyone in the community is entitled to "down time" from this operation, particularly the residents of Martins Creek themselves.
I have no objection to the operation of the quarry, however to allow its expansion to the obvious disregard of the local community is nothing more than workplace bullying at its worst. It will also impact on my property value, as any new buyers will be fully aware of all these negative aspects of buying close to the quarry which were not an issue when we purchased in 1990.
To reiterate, I oppose the Martins Creek Quarry Expansion because of the issues of noise pollution, air pollution, traffic, safety, property devaluation and the impact on life style which affect my family personally as well as the communities of Martins Creek, Vacy and Paterson in particular.

See attachment 1

Martins Creek quarry should not be allowed to expand its operations. Extraction rates should be much as they were 10 years ago and in accordance with the current approval with rail being the principal means of transport.

Daracon has treated our community with contempt.

In my opinion It's development application should not be dealt with until its current Court proceedings with Dungog Council have been finalised. The Department should note that in the meantime Daracon is enjoying enormous financial benefit whilst the community suffers as a result of their actions which are in contravention of the existing approval granted by Dungog Council. This bad behaviour should not be rewarded or condoned.

I fully support the Martins Creek Quarry Project. The quarry provides employment for many personnel and quarry products to many major construction sites and businesses which generates further employment and aids development of the entire region.

The loss or reduction of capacity from Martins Creek Quarry would have a significant effect on the Newcastle Region.

I oppose the Martins Creek Quarry expansion. I work in Paterson and believe that to allow more heavy trucks through the village is unsafe. It is a narrow road with a sharp right hand bend and importantly has businesses situated on both sides of the street. People, including children have to cross back and forth to conduct their business.
The noise levels from trucks is already effecting the village, an increase would clearly make it worse.
The village also has a historic atmosphere that draws many tourists. An increase in heavy trucks will clearly effect the business these people bring to the village.
I live in Bolwarra about 700 metres from Paterson Road and yet I am woken early on week day mornings by trucks coming down the hill to the roundabout at the junction of flat road. Many trucks use their exhaust brakes on this hill and I can clearly hear them in my house with all the windows closed. I do not know how people closer than me to Paterson Road cope already, let alone if truck numbers increase and people trying to live in Paterson village face a demonstrable barrage of unreasonable noise.
The historic single lane bridge over the Paterson River on Dungog Road is also clearly prone to damage by increased heavy traffic flows.
I can not see how it is acceptable to let more trucks pass through Paterson village. It is at the severe detriment of many for the benefit of a few.

I have not made a reportable political donation

As an employee of Daracon I believe Daracon have and will continue to work with the Community to ensure any current and future expansion of the Martins Creek Quarry will adhere to all statutory requirements for this type of operation.
This quarry is an integral part of the Daracon operation and services a wide range of projects throughout the Hunter and wider regions.
Daracon are a privately owned Hunter company who employ over 850 locals. Their past (over 33 years) and ongoing support through their generous charity donations hold testimony of their commitment to 'give back' to the people of the Hunter. This expansion ensures local employment is secure for the future.

I OPPOSE THE MARTINS CREEK QUARRY EXPANSION

Our family already suffer the negative impacts of Martins Creek Quarry. Regular blasting impacts on our house with cracking to cornices etc and the subsequent shift and movement in the ceiling. This requires maintenance on the house and the subsequent impact is the health concerns from this - shifting dust etc that would have have been contained in the ceiling. DO NOT INCREASE THIS.
There are shift workers in our house - the noise impacts our sleep/living patterns - it affects our health. The trucks are on the road far earlier than ever stated as we pass them on the roads - we suffer, and I feel for neighbouring suburbs because this mean that the trucks are in their suburbs EARLIER than what is stated on paper from Daracon, and this increases the chance of accidents, let alone the constant damage to our roads. DO NOT LET THE QUARRY INCREASE THIS.
As we are on the roads at different times of day and night we also see the impact on the wildlife - koalas regularly are seen crossing the road around the train station and Dungog Road - expansion of the quarry will DESTROY natural HABITAT - and it probably already has. DO NOT LET THE QUARRY EXPAND - IT IS ALL BAD ENOUGH ALREADY!

Dear Sir/Madam,
I appose the Martin's Creek Quarry expansion as I have a daughter and two Grandchildren living in very close proximity to the quarry and see first hand the problems that they face daily. This is a very worrying time as both of my Grandchildren have serious health issues attributed to the ongoing dust problem. There are numerous events that I could list. So if you need any information from me please don't hesitate to contact me.
Regards E.Russell

Dear Sir/Madam please note that I am opposed to The Marti's Creek Quarry Expansion.
This is a short list of my concerns and protests.
a) I live adjacent to the quarry with my partner and our two children.
b) To us the volume of dust is unbearable and uncontrollable.
c) Both of my children have chronic nose bleeds weekly
After seeking medical treatment I was told that it is caused by an infection in the nose from the dust particles.
d) I cannot open the doors and windows in my house as the dust infiltrates the inside 24 hrs a day.
e) I dry all of our cloths in the cloths drier as I cannot hang them out on the outside line due to the high quantities of dust (especially during wet weather)
f) Our motor vehicles are impossible to keep clean as the dust is forever on them even getting into the air vents.
g) My windows are all cracked due to the constant blasting.
h) The house is moving off the piers due to the blasting.
i) There is a consistent moving of trucks from as early as 4 am and as late as 11.30 pm.
j) I won't allow my children to play out on the front footpath as they have been sprayed with rocks and dust on numerous occasions.
k) I am fearful of my children waiting on the school bus every morning as the bus stop is located at the cross section at station street.
l) Noise is a massive concern as the trucks do not abide by the time rules, They enter the town at all hours making it very difficult for me and my family to sleep.
m) All of these problems are causing anxiety and stress on me and every member of my family.
n) I am currently on my fourth vacuum cleaner this year and my business is also affected in Paterson
Please note I have a 24 hr surveillance camera that can prove the times and concerns that I have stated here.
I have also invited their representives to come to my house and see for themselves, but have had no takers.

I oppose the Martins Creek Quarry Expansion.

My reasons for opoosing the expansion project are as follows:
1. The roads the trucks will be travelling on are not able to tolerate heavy vehciles without constant repair which inconveniences local residents.
2. Safety for residents should be alwyas put first and trucks fully laden travelling at 80km per hour (and they frequently do past my house) is terrifying when I try to enter or leave my driveway.
3. There are no footpaths for us to walk on, resulting in locals being forced to walk on the side of the road.
4. Cyclists are required to ride on the road and don'' stand a chance when a truck goes passed them. The road is not wide enough to have a safe distance, especially with the proposed increase in truck movements.
5. Wildlife is regulalry slaughtered along the road as the trucks do not stop,nor do they clean up the carnage, leaving that up to the locals!
6. The value of our properties are being devalued due to the increased truck movements. Will we get a substantial decrease in rates as a result of being in a more commercial area.....I presume not!
7. We bought this property for the tranquility and distance from the busy built up areas. We paid a premium for that lifestyle, only nownto see it eroded away. Trucks at decent times during the weekday is acceptable, just. Trucks late at night and on weekends is unjust, cruel and a sign of greed.

I have been employed at Daracon for 10 years. The success of the quarry helps maintain the jobs of over 850 employees and over 1000 contractors and their families. The quarry provides materials to many projects crucial to the growth and prosperity of the region.