Orica Proposal for Study in Homebush Bay

28th November, 2002

Orica said today that it planned to submit a Voluntary Investigation Proposal (VIP) to undertake a new scientific study into sediments in part of Homebush Bay adjacent to the former Berger paint factory on Rhodes Peninsula.

The Orica submission follows the announcement by the NSW EPA of the Declaration of Homebush Bay adjacent to the former Orica Rhodes premises as an Investigation Area Under the Contaminated Land Management Act 1997.

The VIP would initiate a substantial negotiation phase involving Orica and the NSW EPA which, if successful, would lead to a Voluntary Investigation Agreement (VIA).

The VIA would establish the parameters of the study, the second research project funded by Orica into the sediments in Homebush Bay.

Depending upon the outcome of the research, a decision will be made about any future action on lead contamination in the sediments.

The earlier study, which covered a wider area in the southeast corner of Homebush Bay, was designed in collaboration with the NSW EPA and NSW Waterways by the internationally recognised environmental consultants URS and EVS and undertaken by URS. Orica paid the costs of the study which was completed in 2001.

Following extensive discussions with the NSW EPA, Orica will undertake a further investigation into the distribution of lead in the sediments in a smaller area of the bay adjacent to the former Berger site.

Orica formerly operated both paint and chemicals plants on the Rhodes Peninsula facing Homebush Bay. These factories were closed several years ago and Orica has fully remediated these sites in preparation for their future development.

The sites have now been sold and are being developed for new uses including medium-density waterside housing, commercial space and some retail outlets.