Mount Torrens Gold Battery

I seek leave to make a brief explanation before directing a question to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries on the subject of the Mount Torrens Gold Battery.

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK: Honourable members may be aware that the Mount Torrens Gold Battery is a state heritage listed building which is in the care and concern of PIRSA. The Mount Torrens and District Community Association has campaigned to ensure that the structure is protected, and it has unfortunately been subject to theft and vandalism.

My questions are:
 
1. What is the minister's department doing to protect this valuable piece of South Australia's heritage? 2. Will she take actions to ensure that it is looked after into the future?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Minister for Forests, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Status of Women) (14:26): I believe that in fact this building comes under the responsibility of the mining interests. However, I will double check whether it is PIRSA's and my responsibility. I do believe it might be mining, but I will double check that and one way or the other I will refer the matter to the appropriate person and bring back a response.

Replied 3 May 2012

In reply to the Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (9 November 2011) (First Session).

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Minister for Forests, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Status of Women): The Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy is advised that:

1. A number of security measures have been taken to restrict unauthorised access to the buildings located at the Mount Torrens Gold battery site.

All buildings have been secured with pad bolts and locks, and openings covered with metal cladding.
The gate which allows access to the land is secured with a chain and lock.
All identified asbestos products have been removed and replaced with appropriate material.

2. The Mount Torrens Gold battery site is listed on the State Heritage Register. The Department for Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy will continue to work with the local community and other Government agencies to ensure the site is maintained appropriately.