Table 4.2
Summary of the hydraulic parameters identified in the Robertson GeoConsultants Inc., 2011 and 2004 hydrogeological studies and modelling works
Hydro stratigraphic units
Hydraulic conductivity (m/day)
Comments provided in 2011 modelling report* Highly variable; moderate to high permeability; promotes rapid infiltration and seepage
Mine Landforms – Rock/spoils dumps,
4.5 to 0.8
8.6 x 10⁻ 2 to 8.6 x 10⁻ 3
Saprolite
Transitional unit moderating vertical seepage
Fractured Paleozoic bedrock
Primary lateral groundwater flow domain, fracture-controlled
8.6 x 10⁻ 3
Competent Paleozoic bedrock
Acts as hydraulic basement
* [10]
4.3 Environmental values and groundwater sensitive receptors EVs applicable to the Mount Morgan area are defined through statutory environmental and water planning documents for the Fitzroy Basin. Under Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection (Water and Wetland Biodiversity) Policy 2019 [11], groundwater EVs for the Fitzroy Basin include the protection of biodiversity and ecosystem processes, maintenance of groundwater surface water interactions, and support of existing and potential beneficial uses of groundwater. These EVs are spatially defined in the Fitzroy Basin Environmental Values and Water Quality Objectives mapping for groundwaters [12], which applies to regional groundwater systems within the Fitzroy River catchment. The identified groundwater EVs include the provision of water that supports groundwater dependent ecosystems, contributes to baseflow and water quality in connected surface water features (including rivers and creeks), and is suitable for human uses such as stock watering, irrigation, and other local uses where applicable. These EVs are further supported by the Water Plan (Fitzroy Basin) 2011 [13], which applies to all surface water and groundwater resources in the basin and identifies groundwater as a resource requiring protection to maintain ecological function and hydrological connectivity within the catchment. The Dee River is identified within Fitzroy Basin planning instruments as a receiving environment dependent on groundwater inputs, and protection of groundwater quality along seepage pathways that discharge to the Dee River is a component of the scheduled groundwater EVs. Review of the information available on the Queensland Globe Database [4] and Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems Atlas [14] regarding the Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDEs) occurring in 10 km radius from the proposed UMG TSF area, indicates the following:
— No known GDEs occur in proximity to the mine/UMG TSF nor within the researched area.
— Moderate to low potential Terrestrial GDEs have been mapped in proximity the site, although the majority occurs at in proximity to the edge of the researched area. — Aquatic GDEs associated with the Dee River and its tributaries, where groundwater contributes to river baseflow and influences surface water persistence during low‑flow conditions. — Instream and riparian ecosystems mapped along the Dee River corridor that rely on the surface expression of groundwater, including reaches where groundwater discharge supports channel pools and wetted habitats. — Terrestrial vegetation communities identified by the GDE Atlas as having potential dependence on the subsurface presence of groundwater, particularly within alluvial and fractured rock settings adjacent to the Dee River. — Areas of potential shallow groundwater interaction in valley floors and drainage corridors where groundwater occurrence may support vegetation structure and ecological function. — These GDEs are identified through national‑scale and regional mapping and represent ecosystems where groundwater quality and flow conditions are relevant to environmental values in the vicinity of the Mount Morgan site.
Project No PS213278 Mount Morgan Mine - Upper Mundic Gully TSF Seepage Management Plan Heritage Minerals
WSP May 2026 Page 17
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