Our Story 

CARM (Communities Against Residential Mining) formed in early 2025 after local residents discovered the proposed mining exploration licence EL008505, held by Falcon Metals. What began as concern quickly became coordinated community action.

CARM operates as an action group of the Bendigo District Environmental Council (BDEC) — a long‑standing and respected environmental advocacy organisation in Central Victoria. With BDEC’s support, CARM focuses specifically on the growing risks posed by mining exploration in residential and rural‑residential areas.

Why We Formed

The EL008505 exploration licence covers 94 square kilometres across Strathfieldsaye, Junortoun, Emu Creek, Longlea, Sutton Grange and Mandurang, including parts of the Wellsford Forest. These areas are home to semi‑rural communities, important waterways, and environments of high flora and fauna value.

Residents were not widely informed about the scale or nature of the proposed exploration. CARM formed to fill that gap — to ensure communities have access to clear information, a collective voice, and the support needed to respond to mining proposals that affect their homes, health and environment.

What Drives Us

We are a community‑led group committed to:

• Protecting residential and rural‑residential areas from inappropriate mining exploration

• Raising awareness of what mining companies are proposing

• Supporting residents to understand their rights

• Advocating for transparency, accountability and environmental protection

• Ensuring communities have a strong, united voice

CARM exists because local people deserve honesty, clarity and meaningful involvement in decisions that affect their land, wellbeing and future.