OceanaGold’s Macraes Operation opened its information centre in the town yesterday.
Donald McGregor was appointed leader of the centre, housed in the historic Athenaeum building.
In a statement from OceanaGold, he said the role was “a chance to share the story of a region built on resilience, community, and gold”.
Born and raised in Palmerston, Mr McGregor had witnessed first hand how the Macraes Mine has shaped the identity and livelihood of East Otago for more than three decades, the statement said.
“I saw Palmerston go from a buzzing town in the ’70s and ’80s when the railway station was operating to a shadow of its former self when the station, railways, banks, post office and stock and station agents closed.
‘‘In 1990 when the mine opened, new energy, people and businesses revitalised our community.
‘‘Towns like ours simply wouldn’t be the same without it.”
He looked forward to welcoming tourists and locals alike to the centre.
“They can learn about gold mining, understand the history beneath their feet and see what the future could look like with the Macraes Phase 4 life of mine extension.”
This year, OceanaGold would apply for consents for several proposed activities which are known collectively as Macraes Phase 4, via the Fast-track Approvals Act.
These activities would keep Macraes operating until around 2036, the statement said.
The information centre offered an interactive space for visitors to explore the history of gold mining in the district, understand modern mining practices and learn more about the phase four project.
Mr McGregor hoped the centre could provide a real boost to the town.
“Palmerston has always been a place where people stop, stay and connect.
“I want this centre to help spark that again and to give people a reason to visit, to learn and maybe even to make this region their home.”
OceanaGold Macraes Operation acting asset president Pieter Doelman said Mr McGregor “embodies what makes East Otago special”.
‘‘His deep roots in Palmerston and his enthusiasm for the region make him the perfect person to welcome people into the centre.
“This space is about sharing our story openly and proudly and Donald will bring that to life.”
OceanaGold Macraes Operation employs more than 760 staff as well as more than 200 contractors and their staff that service the mine. — Allied Media
