A bauxite mine on the remote island of Rennell in the Solomon Islands had a major oil spill in early February when attempting to load the sedimentary rock on a bulk carrier ship.
Australia’s High Commissioner Rod Brazier is concerned about the scale of the disaster with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority estimating 60 tonnes of oil has been spilled and is not contained.
Commissioner Brazier said, "The impact of this oil spill will have a devastating effect on the surrounding environment, including potentially, on a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the livelihood of the people of Rennell."