VHM Limited announced it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Swan Hill Rural City Council.
According to VHM, the MOU outlines a sustainable social and economic future for the communities in the Loddon Mallee Region, where the Goschen Rare Earths and Mineral Sands Project is located.
VHM added that the MOU establishes shared or co-dependent obligations for job creation, training and development, local infrastructure design and use, indirect project economic prospects, and government financing advocacy. The Agreement also includes outcomes for environmental and social development for the mutual benefit of the community and VHM shareholders.
Through its 20+ year mine operation, the Goschen Project has the potential to be a foundation source of social and economic growth for the Region. The Goschen project’s construction and ongoing operations are predicted to generate more than $2.0 billion for the Loddon-Mallee economy and an estimated $1.3 billion for the Victorian economy.
The MOU between the Company and Swan Hill Rural City Council is the Company’s second arrangement with local government, following the signing of an MOU with Gannawarra Shire Council. These MOUs confirm the parties’ mutual and long-term engagement in the Loddon-Mallee Region’s communities and economy, as well as their strong support for the Project in the Region.
“Formalising the relationship between VHM and the Councils is a key indication of our mutual respect and intent to create positive opportunities for the people of the Gannawarra and Swan Hill council communities,” Managing Director Graham Howard said.
Howard added, “We look forward to continuing the close working relationship with the councils to ensure the local community benefits from employment opportunities and contributions to the local and regional economy.”
