interesting new wording on the updated vic earth resources page

[where the nugget]

Just picked up on the new updated vic earth resources page "Fossicking rules and responsibilities" They have dropped all mentions of sluicing been allowed

"You can use picks, shovels, hammers, sieves, shakers, electronic detectors and other similar tools. No machinery is permitted and no explosives can be used on the land."

they use to state sluices as well

the new wording can be found here which was updated on the 26th of march https://earthresources.vic.gov.au/licensing-approvals/fossicking/rules-and-responsibilities

 

[LONEWOLF]

Pressure from other states?

LW...

 

[Flash Jack]

But in their "Guide to Recreational Prospecting" it says that
"You can only use hand tools while exploring for minerals under a miners right.
You cannot use mechanical equipment or explosives to excavate the ground."
The key word is "excavate". They have created confusion. The use of a powered crusher or highbanker etc. is not "excavating" so should be permitted.
A guide to recreational prospecting (PDF, 675.3 KB)

 

[MegsyB007]

They don't mention pans in that list either. I think "...and other similar tools" leaves it fairly open to interpretation though.

Cheers,
Megsy

 

[jethro]

you guys are getting extraction of minerals/ ore / washdirt mixed up with processing of same after it has been dug up.