The process has been quite long and we still have some way to go. We are talking with various Aboriginal groups to ensure cultural heritage is protected.

We have had some feedback on a draft and we will need to include some additional information.

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The LRMA has been successful in securing funding from the Western Catchment Management Authority for the spraying of Hudson Pear around the town of Lightning Ridge.

We expect to sign contracts in early February and hope to start by the end of February 2010.

Once funding is received we will be taking out public liability insurance so that we can use Work for the Dole through Best Employment.

We finished our last spraying program mid way through 2009 and with the recent rain the cactus has been growing once again.

Our next Hudson Pear Task Force meeting will be held in early February 2010 and we should be able to report some excellent progress on importing a bug that will hopefully assist in the controlling of this noxious weed.

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The Occupational Health and Safety legislation in regards to man-riding hoists commences on September 1 2010.

This will involve new requirements and guidelines. Man-riding hoists will need to be registered probably with the department by that date.

Departmental mechanical engineers are in the process of upgrading the current guidelines for man-riding hoists and there will be a free workshop probably during March 2010.

We will let you know the exact date closer to the time and any one can attend.

The department are asking any miners who have a man-riding hoist to register their contact details with them so they can keep you informed.

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The following have applied for membership of the LRMA.

If any member has an objection to any of the membership applications please contact the LRMA office and your objection will be treated with the strictest of confidence.

Edward Thurlow Proposer: Drago Panich Seconder: Gary Walls.