Access to Country Protocol

Purpose of This Protocol

This protocol supports safe, respectful and well-coordinated access for JBAC Traditional Owners and members wishing to enter the Thunderbird Mining Lease or Exploration Tenements for cultural activities. It ensures cultural responsibilities are upheld while maintaining site safety and operational requirements.

Who Needs to Apply

  • Traditional Owners (TOs)
    -TOs do not need to apply when visiting Country outside the Mining Lease or Exploration Tenements.
    -TOs must submit an application if entering any part of the Mining Lease or Exploration Tenements for cultural purposes.

  • JBAC Members and Approved Visitors
    -All other applicants must complete the Access Request Form before entering the Mining Lease or Exploration Tenements.

Minimum Notice Required

Applications must be submitted at least 7 days before the proposed access date. Requests submitted later than this timeframe may not be approved due to safety, planning and operational requirements.

What You Need to Include in Your Application

Please ensure the following information is included:

  • Full names and contact details of all visitors

  • Cultural purpose/activity for the visit

  • Proposed dates and times

  • Number of vehicles and passengers

  • Vehicle make, model and registration

  • Any additional relevant information

  • Confirmation that all conditions of entry are understood and accepted

Incomplete applications may be delayed or declined.

Approval Process

  • The completed form is reviewed by JBAC and KMS for safety and operational considerations.

  • Applicants will receive confirmation once the request has been approved.

  • Access may be limited or declined during periods of high activity, adverse weather, or safety concerns.

Access Procedure on Arrival

Upon arrival at the Thunderbird operations:

  • 1. Report to the Gatehouse

  • Present photo identification.

  • Provide names of all visitors and details of your approved application.

    2. Sign In

  • All visitors must sign in before entering.

    3. Receive Required Equipment

  • This may include a radio, safety briefing, or designated escort.

  • 4. Driving Requirements

  • Valid driver’s licence is required for anyone operating a vehicle on site.

  • Headlights must be on at all times.

  • Follow posted speed limits.

  • 5. Restricted Areas

  • No entry is permitted into unauthorised or operational areas unless specifically approved.

Conditions of Entry

All visitors must agree to and abide by the following:

  • Visitors must behave respectfully at all times.

  • No alcohol, drugs, firearms, drones or fireworks are allowed on site.

  • Children under 18 must be supervised at all times and must not walk or play near access roads.

  • Vehicles must be roadworthy and driven safely.

  • Visitors must remain within approved areas only.

  • All cultural materials, artefacts and sites must be treated with respect.

  • All rubbish must be removed from site.

  • Access may be revoked at any time if a safety concern arises.

Completion of Activities

Before leaving site, visitors must:

  • Sign out at the Gatehouse

  • Return any radios or equipment provided

  • Confirm all visitors have exited safely

  • Notify the Gatehouse that the cultural activities are complete

Privacy and Information Use

Information provided in the application will be used only for access coordination, cultural safety, and operational compliance. Details are shared with JBAC and KMS Gatehouse personnel as required. Personal information will be stored securely and managed in accordance with JBAC policy.

APPLICATION