The search for the illusive speck of gold can continue in Nundle following the lifting of a ban on fossicking along the Peel River between Nundle and Bowling Alley Point.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the ban being lifted was good news after 172 years of gold rush history.

“The government’s recent decision to ban fossicking on crown land between Nundle and Bowling Alley Point was causing angst and outrage in the gold rush town,” Mr Anderson said.

“Following the absurd decision, I contacted the Minister for Crown Lands Steve Kamper calling on him to reverse the decision.

“I continued to follow up with the Minister while in parliament and used my time on the floor of parliament to call on the government to act.

“Following strong community advocacy, the government have now reversed their decision to ban fossicking on crown land near Nundle and on crown land managed by council.

“Businesses in the town have welcomed the decision and look forward to welcoming the thousands of fossickers, their families, and their friends who rush to Nundle in search of gold.

“It has been revealed that fossicking has historically been prohibited on travelling stock routes, but never enforced. Local Land Services have informed the community that the prohibition remains in place on travelling stock routes.

“I thank the Minister for listening to our community, and for making the right decision.”