Any counter arguments

General Discussion
1

you could offer to Mr Di Falco how, you would prevent the following seven points, Mr Di Falco may have an opportunity to take this further as he is in support of prospecting and enjoying the outdoors

1. Environmental Impact on Waterways

High bankers and sluices can disturb riverbeds, leading to increased sedimentation and turbidity in the water.

This can smother fish eggs, harm aquatic insects, and degrade habitat quality for native species.

Even small-scale sediment movement can alter river morphology, especially in sensitive or already stressed ecosystems.

2. Spread of Weeds and Invasive Species

Prospecting equipment can carry invasive plant seeds or pathogens between rivers or regions.

This poses a significant biosecurity risk, particularly in a place like Tasmania where endemic species are already vulnerable.

3. Noise and Disturbance to Wildlife

The noise from high bankers may disrupt wildlife, especially in remote or conservation-focused areas.

Continuous disturbance can alter animal behaviours such as breeding, feeding, and nesting patterns.

4. Erosion and Soil Degradation

Repeated digging and washing of sediments can destabilise riverbanks, increasing erosion.

This contributes to loss of vegetation, soil runoff, and long-term damage to natural landscapes.

5. Inconsistent User Responsibility

Not all prospectors follow best practices. Improper use of equipment or prospecting in prohibited zones can lead to cumulative damage.

Policing and enforcing responsible behaviour in remote areas is costly and logistically challenging for government bodies.

6. Cultural and Heritage Site Risks

Prospecting may inadvertently disturb Indigenous heritage sites or areas of cultural significance.

Tasmania has a rich Aboriginal heritage, and many waterways are culturally sensitive.

7. Conflict with Other Land Users

Prospecting can conflict with other recreational users like hikers, birdwatchers, or kayakers who seek quiet and undisturbed nature.

There may also be concerns from private landowners or farmers near waterways.

Warm regards

From: Jackson Woods woodsjackson690@gmail.com

Sent: Thursday, 11 September 2025 11:15 PM

To: Carlo Di Falco Carlo.DiFalco@parliament.tas.gov.au

Subject: High bankers a matter for parliament

You don’t often get email from woodsjackson690@gmail.com. Learn why this is important

Dear Mr falco

Many of us who go out for fresh air and rexlation to enjoy the outdoors to clear our minds deserve to use small machines to enjoy prospecting. Tasmania is a haven for those who find peace and Joy in sunlit riversides and forested trails. The gentle hum of a high banker and the rhythmic splash of sluice waters should be fused with this natural symphony. For too long, we’ve been hindered by regulations that deny us the simple pleasure of prospecting with these vital tools.

Prospecting not only connects us to nature;

It’s an activity that build community, teaches valuable skills, and provides a sense of accomplishment. High bankers and sluices are vital tools for recreational prospectors. They allow us to sift through sediments efficiently, reducing the time needed and increasing the enjoyment of our exploration outings.

The ban on these tools in Tasmania affects enthusiasts, hobbyists and anyone who wishes to partake in this activity. While preserving the environment is crucial, modern advancements in technology ensure these machines can operate with minimal environmental disruption. Numerous studies have shown that when handed correctly, High bankers and sluices pose a negligible threat to wildlife and natural habitats.

We call upon the Tasmanian authorities to reconsider and allow the controlled and responsible use of high bankers and sluices for recreational prospecting. Implementing a permit system or designating specific areas where these tools can be used responsibly could easily balance the prospects of environmental protection and recreational enjoyment.

Reinstating the use of these tools will rejuvenate the community of prospectors and outdoor enthusiasts, foresting a deeper appreciation for Tasmania’s natural wonders.

Pls support this idea to encourage a revision of current restrictions and celebrate Tasmania’s vibrant natural beauty and our he

ritage of prospecting

Kind regards Jackson woods

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Oh, wow, thanks @Matty

Are these the reasons that MRT are giving as to why hibankers are not allowed?

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This is the member for the shooters party if we can come up with solutions to these points he said he would take it to Parliament, not sure about mrt

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I’m too old to frantically shovel dirt into a highbanker, but here’s a few of my thoughts.

  1. Prospecting creates minimal water borne sediment compared to forestry harvesting, agricultural runoff or natural events like floods and fire.
  2. Cars and recreational vehicles will be way more likely to spread seeds and soil than prospecting equipment, which I always wash down before I put into my car.
  3. Motorbikes and chainsaws make more noise than highbankers, yet they are allowed in many areas.
  4. Riverbanks will erode during major floods whether they have been subjected to prospecting activities or not. The process of sediment deposition will rebuild them over time anyway.
  5. Prospectors that do not follow best practices are already out there, avoiding policing and the legality of certain methods of prospecting means little to them. Why should they have an advantage over law abiding prospectors?
  6. Most of the areas that we prospect have already been mined using highly destructive methods such as hydraulic sluicing in the last 150 years. It is highly unlikely that further prospecting using hand tools will noticeably add to the destruction that has already taken place.
  7. Over 30% of Tasmania is covered by national parks and reserves where prospecting is not allowed, but hiking, birdwatching, kayaking etc is encouraged. There is ample areas for these activities to be carried out undisturbed.
  8. It is slightly hypocritical for farmers to complain about natural sediments being stirred up while they release pesticides, fertilizer and manure into the same waterway, and other landowners are mostly just concerned about prospectors finding their hidden bush garden plots in my experience.
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Great points throw them and maybe other points at them and see what he’s says

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Thanks @dhawley di falco for the shooters party will bring Ur points to the minister

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