The Bronkhorstspruit and Wilge River Conservancy Association (Gca067)

NOTICE OF OBJECTION AND REQUEST TO BE REGISTERED AS AN INTERESTED OR AFFECTED PARTY IN RESPECT OF THE FOLLOWING EXPLORATION RIGHTS AND ENVIROMENTAL AUTHORISATION APPLICATION:

NAME OF APPLICANT: Rhino Oil & Gas

PASA REF: 12/3/291ER, 12/3/294, 12/3/295, 12/3/317, 12/3/318

Please note my objection to the abovementioned applications to explore for oil and gas and please register me as an interested or affected party in all applications.

NAME: Jackie Nightingale

EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected]

REASON FOR Environmental INTEREST:

Environmental Health Community Economic ISSUES & CONCERNS: Water Climate Change

I reserve my right to elaborate and/or add to these issues and concerns at a later stage.

Jackie Nightingale

……………………………………………………………………………….

SIGNATURE

EMAIL TO: SLR Stella Moeketse [email protected]

THE BRONKHORSTSPRUIT AND WILGE RIVER CONSERVANCY ASSOCIATION (GCA067)

email : [email protected]

contact nr : 082 442 2483

20 Sept 2016

To: The Regional Manager DMR Braamfontein [email protected] [email protected]

To : Rhino Oil and Gas Exploration SA Att : SLR [email protected] [email protected]

COMMENTS AND OBJECTION – 12/3/294ER - EIR AND EMP FOR AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE , MPUMALANGA, GAUTENG – Steynsrus, Frankfort, Petrus Steyn, Heilbron, Vrede,Standerton,Villiers, Oranjeville

The Bronkhorstspruit and Wilge River Conservancy Ass is a constituted Association, operating in the greater catchment areas of the Bronkhorstspruit and Wilge river, with 150 concerned members. This Conservancy is affiliated to the Gauteng Conservancy Stewardship Association and The National Conservancy of SA.

Although these application areas are far removed from our Conservancy borders, the impact it will have on the environment and health of all living in the said areas, and the probable impact on the wider communities around those areas, and South Africa as a whole, makes this Conservancy and all its members Interested and Affected Parties.

The EAP states that Rhino Oil and Gas has excluded ground based core drilling and seismic surveys from their proposed “early phased exploration” Nothing stops them however from applying to do this in the nearby future in some “interim or final phase exploration”. Herewith, our objections against any type of exploration by Rhino Gas and Oil, that well may result in future fracking of these areas.

From news articles and social media it is well know, and it has been proven now in the USA and other countries, that fracking pollutes the environment and especially underground and surface water, is the cause of earthquakes and is detrimental to people’s health. Leaking pipelines and fracking wells that explode just worsen the pollution.

We are there for against all prospecting for gas and/or fracking, now and in the future anywhere in the mentioned areas, and for that matter anywhere else in South Africa.

We reserve the right to further comments.

Management Bhs and Wilge River Conservancy Ass

RHINO OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION

MINUTES OF EIR FEEDBACK MEETING

DATE 28 September 2016 09:00 VENUE: Siesta Guesthouse Frankfort PROJECT: Rhino Oil and Gas Free State SLR COMPANY: South Africa PROJECT NUMBER: 723.18034.00003 PURPOSE: Environmental Impact Report Feedback Meeting ATTENDANCE: An attendance register is presented in Appendix 2.

1. OPEN AND INTRODUCTION The meeting was called off due to a lack of attendance. The attendance register of people who attended the open day is attached in Appendix 2.

1 APPENDIX 1: RECORD OF ISSUES RAISED AND RESPONSES GIVEN Issue raised By whom Response (given by JC Pretorius unless stated otherwise)

2 APPENDIX 2: ATTENDANCE REGISTER Name Interest/Village Postal address Contact details

RHINO OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION

MINUTES OF EIR FEEDBACK MEETING

DATE 28 September 2016 15:00 VENUE: Heilbron Golf Club PROJECT: Rhino Oil and Gas Free State SLR COMPANY: South Africa PROJECT NUMBER: 723.18034.00003 PURPOSE: Environmental Impact Report Feedback Meeting ATTENDANCE: An attendance register is presented in Appendix 2.

1. OPEN AND INTRODUCTION No meeting took place due to lack of attendance. The attendees that did arrive were satisfied by the information provided during the open day and opted not to have a formal meeting. The comments and queries that were given during the open day discussions are captured in Appendix 1.

1 APPENDIX 1: RECORD OF ISSUES RAISED AND RESPONSES GIVEN Issue raised By whom Response (given by JC Pretorius unless stated otherwise) Suggestions from Free State Agriculture: reduce the project area, Francois Maartens Phillip Steyn: The process Rhino has followed is not as different as consult with the farmers individually, the advantages for the you suggest. The large study area is so that a potential source is not farmers must be laid out, and remove fracking from the project omitted. For this reason we have not consulted with the farmers completely. If you are considering fracking, then no exploration will individually since it is not practical. The project area will decreased as take place in the Free State. Free State Agriculture has taken a the project moves forward and more properties are relinquished. The resolution not to allow fracking. general benefits are being explained to the farmers, but Rhino can’t promise farmer specific benefits at this stage. Rhino cannot exclude fracking from the possible extraction methods, and Rhino will only know how extraction will have to take place once the exploration studies are done. In my opinion, seismic surveys won’t be of much use for you. Noted. Your approach must change if you want a better reaction. Talk Koot Naude Noted. Rhino hopes that the FTG will provide a better idea of the with each individual farmer on the list. If you want to meet with the geology, which will decrease the project size and make consulting farmers, come to the Farmer’s Union Meetings. Communication is with individual landowners more practical, especially where work on my biggest concern at this stage. the ground is concerned. Cobus van der Walt raised the suggestion to rather investigate Phillip Steyn: Mozambique is a good prospect, though new places like Mozambique, because this area is of vital importance applications have been stopped. The Mozambique government does for food security. invite companies to explore, but offer very little to promote it from their side. Attachments on the website can’t be opened. Noted. CDs are available and can be posted to individuals. Do you know how many holes you want to drill? Phillip Steyn: Not yet, as this will only be made clear in the FTG. The address of the Heilbron library you have listed as a location Noted. for the review of the report is wrong. The address that is listed is in the township area. I acknowledge that coal sources are decreasing and gas is Phillip Steyn: A question that is asked often is why South Africa? probably a good energy alternative. South Africa has good infrastructure in place like Mosgas and SASOL which is a big advantage. South Africa also has 5 oil refineries, but oil is imported to each of them. The government recognises that the economy needs an injection of some sorts, and this could assist in providing it. Is fracking one of the proposed methods of extraction? Phillip Steyn: It cannot be excluded as a method of extraction at this stage. It is possible, but not a certainty.

2 Does any negotiations have to take place with the local They are interested and affected parties, but only if the municipality governments? owns land outside the residential area of the towns are they considered landowners. The process has to be simplified and explained to the farmers. Noted. The technical language and the fact that the report is in English make things more difficult for them. I propose a SWOT analysis as a method to explain some of your points, as it is something the farmers do often themselves. Please send us 2 CDs with the report per Farmer’s Union. Noted What’s the way forward? Until 14 October comments can be submitted to SLR on the Draft EIR. The comments will be included in the final report that will be submitted to PASA before 4 November. PASA then has 107 days to make a decision. After the decision was made, it can be appealed by the public (if approved) or by Rhino (if denied). If drilling and seismic studies need to supplement the FTG work, it can only continue if an amendment to the Environmental Authorisation is undertaken to include and assess the sites for drilling and seismic surveys. Is there an indication how deep the resource is? Phillip Steyn: Between 600m and 2km. anything shallower than that will be a small resource and will have to be connected with each other to make it viable. If you publish something in the local paper that can assist in Noted. explaining the process better, please let us know so that we can look at it and understand better ourselves.

3 APPENDIX 2: ATTENDANCE REGISTER Name Interest/Village Postal address Contact details

RHINO OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION

MINUTES OF EIR FEEDBACK MEETING

DATE 27 September 2016 15:00 VENUE: Vrede Town Hall PROJECT: Rhino Oil and Gas Free State SLR COMPANY: South Africa PROJECT NUMBER: 723.18034.00003 PURPOSE: Environmental Impact Report Feedback Meeting ATTENDANCE: An attendance register is presented in Appendix 2.

1. OPEN AND INTRODUCTION Anelle Lotter opened the meeting and explained the purpose of the meeting, and introduced herself, JC Pretorius, Adriaan Botha and Phillip Steyn (Rhino Oil and Gas Exploration). Anelle Lotter continued to outline the purpose of the meeting and proposed agenda.

2. APOLOGIES No apologies were made.

3. RECAP OF THE PROJECT JC Pretorius gave a background to the process that has been followed thus far and where the process is at currently as per the presentation.

4. PROJECT STATUS AND CHANGES Philip Steyn gave the status of the application and discussed the changes of the project scope as per the presentation.

5. FEEDBACK ON KEY ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS ASSESSED BY THE EIR JC Pretorius gave feedback on the main concerns IAPs raised during the scoping phase and outlined the potential impacts and their significance that were investigated in the EIR as per the presentation.

6. DISCUSSION A number of issues were raised during the meeting. These have been recorded in the table attached as Appendix 1. Where a response was provided the response has been included in the table.

7. THE WAY FORWARD Anelle Lotter outlined the process that will be followed going forward as per the presentation.

8. CLOSE

1 The meeting was closed by Anelle Lotter.

2 APPENDIX 1: RECORD OF ISSUES RAISED AND RESPONSES GIVEN Issue raised (during open day) By whom Response Afro Energy ER plans are confusing us since the areas are very Rob James Noted. close together. Afro Energy and Rhino properties overlap. Please provide Theresa Louw Noted. Portion 1 and the remainder of Nywerheid No. 171 and the feedback and the exact properties for each application. The remainder of Arcadia No. 65 are included in the application. properties in this case is Nywerheid 171 and the farm Arcadia owned by Arthur de Villiers.

Issue raised (during meeting) By whom Response Has any work been done yet? Arthur de Villiers No, the size of the area has been reduced due to new information that has been obtained and investigated from the CGS. Do we have to submit the same comments again? If you have raised concerns in the scoping phase, it is not necessary to do so again as it is already included in the report. Is this project the same as Afro Energy project? Although SLR is the environmental practitioners on both projects, they are two separate companies (Rhino and Afro Energy) with two separate exploration projects in two different areas. In the previous meeting you said that there will be no fracking. Fracking is mentioned because it is an issue that is has been raised Why is it included now? by IAPs. The scope of this project does not include fracking. You may have good intentions, but we are the ones who will have The goal is to keep the risk as low as possible. to live with it if things go wrong. Every person will say that their land will not be ideal to extract To steam roll the project does not benefit Rhino at all. What has to be resources due to various reasons, so passing the responsibility considered are the benefits and jobs that can be created. down to other areas for resource extraction. All we ask that that you do not steam roll the public in the process. One of our farms is part of two applications. How is that possible? Theresa Louw Technically this is not supposed to happen, since no other company It causes me to not trust you, because you say that its not can apply for an exploration right on a property that is part of another supposed to happen but it is. This is true for my farm and Arthur ER application. We will address this issue as soon as possible. de Villiers’ farm and it is not around the edges of the project. My previous comments have not been properly addressed, so how can I believe that my other issues are addressed? What about the maps that you got from the council of They are around 50 years old, and they focused on other resources geoscience? and used older technology. It is beneficial to you and the government, but not for us. There We will follow up on the study mentioned. Water usage in South are studies that have been conducted in the USA regarding the Africa is dominated by agriculture. There are two sides to this

3 Issue raised (during meeting) By whom Response correlation between core-drilling and earthquakes/tremors. Water argument and a balanced view is required. is a big issue. Core drilling and fracking affects springs that we depend on. Seismic and drilling can destroy a big area. What are you looking for exactly? Oil is more valuable than gas, but we have applied for a number of resources. Are we going to receive the minutes of this meeting? We can provide the minutes upon request. Will it mean anything if we object or raise issues? Arnold Strauszacker There are various legislative requirements that must be complied with. Informing the affected public is the first thing that has to be done. These meetings are held before a document is sent to the authorities. These documents contain the comments that you as the public submitted. The comments need to be addressed sufficiently and this informs the decision from the authorities. We are the biggest catchment area for the Vaal Dam. The entire Part of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner’s obligation is to country will be impacted if the Vaal Dam is contaminated. It is assess potential impacts like contamination of major water therefore my opinion that this isn’t a good idea. catchments and propose ways to prevent it. It is the authority’s responsibility to scrutinise the proposed management measures and determine if they are sufficient. How deep can the plane see into the ground? Possibly up to10km We want zero risk. There is no such thing as zero risk. It is a case of assessing and managing the risk sufficiently. Talk to people in Johannesburg that their water may be affected This process isn’t democratic in the sense that the issues raised by you will see how much opposition you will have. That will add many people do not outweigh the issues of one person. All issues weight to the opposition. need to be assessed equally. Even if we ask you not to frack, in the next application you can It must be clear that there is a difference between the scope of this come and apply for fracking. project and what may happen in the future. We cannot determine right now what the scope of future applications may entail. Why does an impact study have to take place for this work It is agreed that the impact of the FTG is insignificant. There are programme? We don’t want this. Your activities are unwelcome reasons why this is a good thing for South Africa. We do understand here. your point, but we have the right to apply for this. Why can’t future impacts be assessed? There are too many unknowns at this point in time and more information is required, which will come forth from the FTG and more detailed investigation. We will not benefit at all if this takes place. Noted. Odds are that this work programme will be approved, so we will Noted. respond with strong opposition in the next phase as well.

4 Issue raised (during meeting) By whom Response The problem is that you said in the report that you don’t know the Rob James Noted. extent of the impacts of fracking. We are most likely to suffer and least likely to benefit. The first phase, does that include the seismic and the drilling? It could if there is encouraging information, but the EA will have to be amended, which will require specialist assessments to be conducted on the selected sites and another public participation phase and will take around 200 days. If they find shale gas they will want to frack? In the production/extraction phase fracking cannot be excluded yet. This is due to many unknowns regarding the geology etc. Is there a difference in the amount of seismic that you initially It will only be determined after investigating the FTG study. planned for and now? We have made the point that we have no faith in the legislation as Rhino has to respect all the legislation and laws that affects its it doesn’t get enforced. activities. Is the pipeline excluded from the application? Marlize Viljoen Any Transet, Sanral, etc. properties cannot have exploration be done on it and have been excluded from the application. Jobs are given to people from other countries. These are also secondary impacts that can be included. What is the long term plan? When can extraction take place? Willie Botha In about 15 years. If the oil is extracted, how will it takes place? It is too early to say. Depending on the size the viability of extraction will be determined. In the end there are many potential ways to monetise the resource. It isn’t dirty like coal? No, it is a very compact and clean process.

5 APPENDIX 2: ATTENDANCE REGISTER Name Interest/Village Postal address Contact details

RHINO OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION

MINUTES OF EIR FEEDBACK MEETING

DATE 29 September 2016 15:00 VENUE: JA Malherbe Primary School (Petrus Steyn) PROJECT: Rhino Oil and Gas Free State SLR COMPANY: South Africa PROJECT NUMBER: 723.18034.00003 PURPOSE: Environmental Impact Report Feedback Meeting ATTENDANCE: An attendance register is presented in Appendix 2.

1. OPEN AND INTRODUCTION Anelle Lotter opened the meeting and explained the purpose of the meeting, and introduced herself and Adriaan Botha. Anelle Lotter continued to outline the purpose of the meeting and proposed agenda.

2. APOLOGIES An apology was made for the confusion regarding the meeting times.

3. RECAP OF THE PROJECT Anelle Lotter gave a background to the process that has been followed thus far and where the process is at currently as per the presentation.

4. PROJECT STATUS AND CHANGES Anelle Lotter gave the status of the application and discussed the changes of the project scope as per the presentation.

5. FEEDBACK ON KEY ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS ASSESSED BY THE EIR Anelle Lotter gave feedback on the main concerns IAPs raised during the scoping phase and outlined the potential impacts and their significance that were investigated in the EIR as per the presentation.

7. THE WAY FORWARD Anelle Lotter outlined the process that will be followed forward as per the presentation.

8. CLOSE The meeting was closed by Anelle Lotter.

2 APPENDIX 1: RECORD OF ISSUES RAISED AND RESPONSES GIVEN Issue raised By whom Response (given by Anelle Lotter unless stated otherwise) Do they have to do an impact assessment again if they want to LJ Potgieter Yes drill? Is the amount of farms mentioned only in the Free State? Yes, also only for this application. What about the rest of the farmers that aren’t here? Comments can be submitted in various ways, and just because someone didn’t attend the meeting that their comments won’t be considered. These meetings are for information sharing mostly. Will the presentation be made available to us? Hillary Hill It can be made available upon request. I want it stated in the minutes that I only represent VKB and not Noted. the members of VKB. Maybe an additional meeting must be held for Petrus Steyn if Noted, SLR will follow up with Free State Agriculture and VKB to there is a need for one. determine whether or not there is a need for an additional meeting. I think the department of Agriculture should be consulted as they Noted. are in the process writing legislation to protect agricultural land. I propose that exploration activities must take place on land that has the least amount of agricultural potential. To what point can a farmer deny access? The government can disown the farmer from the farm if the resource is of national importance, but it is not a path that Rhino aims to take. It is a messy business for both parties and it will be in both parties’ best interest to settle with each other before this point is reached. The farmers have said no before in the past. Neville Hobbs It is not the farmers who makes the decision. The competent authority is PASA and they will decide if the project goes ahead or not. If few people appeal the decision the appeal will fail. The appeal’s success will be determined by the grounds of the appeal and not the amount of appeals submitted. SLR slipped up with this meeting with regards to what was SLR admits that there was confusion and apologises for it. advertised. It makes us suspicious. We want protection against groundwater pollution and assurance Aspects such as these will be discussed with the landowner when of an additional water source if our current source gets ground work has to be done and the specific areas are identified. contaminated. Monitoring of the water sources will also take place in accordance to the Environmental Authorisation. Who has shares in Rhino? Dies the state have a share? The government does receive a relatively large amount of royalties during extraction for the resource, but at this stage none. If an appeal is submitted in Petrus Steyn, can they continue Jaco Meiring No. exploring in the other areas?

3 Issue raised By whom Response (given by Anelle Lotter unless stated otherwise) According to the programme the exploration lasts 3 years, but you The data still has to be analysed, and Rhino aims to amend the right say the FTG activities can be completed within 7 days. Why is after sites for ground work are determined from the FTG. All this has that? to be completed in 3 years. The letters takes a long time to reach us. Noted We are not voting during this meeting right? Dries van Tonder No we are not voting. PASA is the body that makes the decision. The VKB sms network will be a better form of communication for We have attempted to use the already established networks of the us. Farmer’s Union, but we were refused in some instances. Will it not be better if VKB and the Farmer’s Unions assist with the It will. It depends on if they choose to assist us or not. distribution of information?

4 APPENDIX 2: ATTENDANCE REGISTER Name Interest/Village Postal address Contact details

RHINO OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION

MINUTES OF EIR FEEDBACK MEETING

DATE 29 September 2016 15:00 VENUE: Steynsrus Town Hall PROJECT: Rhino Oil and Gas Free State SLR COMPANY: South Africa PROJECT NUMBER: 723.18034.00003 PURPOSE: Environmental Impact Report Feedback Meeting ATTENDANCE: An attendance register is presented in Appendix 2.

1. OPEN AND INTRODUCTION JC Pretorius opened the meeting and explained the purpose of the meeting, and introduced himself and Phillip Steyn (Rhino Oil and Gas Exploration). JC Pretorius continued to outline the purpose of the meeting and proposed agenda.

2. APOLOGIES No apologies were made.

3. RECAP OF THE PROJECT JC Pretorius gave a background to the process that has been followed thus far and where the process is currently as per the presentation.

4. PROJECT STATUS AND CHANGES Philip Steyn gave the status of the application and discussed the changes of the project scope as per the presentation.

5. FEEDBACK ON KEY ISSUES AND POTENTIAL IMPACTS ASSESSED BY THE EIR JC Pretorius gave feedback on the main concerns identified during the scoping phase and outlined the potential impacts and their significance that were investigated in the EIR as per the presentation.

7. THE WAY FORWARD JC Pretorius outlined the process that will be followed forward as per the presentation.

8. CLOSE

1 The meeting was closed by JC Pretorius.

2 APPENDIX 1: RECORD OF ISSUES RAISED AND RESPONSES GIVEN Issue raised (during open day) By whom Response How will I benefit from this? Phillip Lipholo For the work plan that is applied for in this application there aren’t any benefits for the farmer since all the work will be done with aerial studies. Potential financial compensation will be provided when work has to be done on the ground, but only on the farms where work has to be done. What will happen if the water is contaminated and people blame Rhino will be held responsible and will have to fix and compensate the me for allowing you on my property? landowner for any and all damages done relating to the exploration activities. Is it safe to extract gas? It can be done safely if it is done properly. What is the way forward since attendance is low? No one can be forced to attend the meetings, but it is not the only opportunity for interested and affected parties to provide comments to the report. Where will this happen? Katsane Sekekete The aerial survey will inform where the ground work will be done, but the Environmental Authorisation will have to be amended before ground work can take place.

Issue raised (during meeting) By whom Response Is the goal of the meeting today to tick the box to say that you Gert Heyns The main reason for the meeting today is to relay information. have consulted with the public? Changes in the scope, to show you the process that still lies ahead, to give responses to issues raised during the scoping phase as well as to examine the impacts assessed in the EIR. This meeting isn’t a legal requirement, but we feel it is the best way to relay the information. Who owns Rhino Oil and Gas South Africa and where are they Rikus Lamprecht Rhino Resources is an American company and is the company who based? owns Rhino Oil and Gas South Africa. In this timeframe during which you aim to do the aerial studies, if The amendment is a possibility, but it does take 200 days to complete you do decide to drill exploration coreholes, are you saying that an amendment, since it is a substantive amendment which includes a you will not apply for a new environmental authorisation but rather public participation period of 30 days as well as specialist studies on amend the existing authorisation? the areas identified as possible sites.. I feel that the additional activities covered in the amendment Since it is a substantive amendment, more detailed studies that were should be an EIA on its own and not just an amendment. done for this EIA will have to be completed to enable PASA to make an informed decision. It makes logically more sense to do it in this way, and there are also a number of future EIA processes that will have to be followed before any form of extraction can take place.

3 Issue raised (during meeting) By whom Response What potential benefits and drawbacks are there for the farmers, Gert Heyns There is a 10 year process including 4 EIAs before extraction takes what rules are imposed on Rhino for these activities? I am mainly place. This EIA is restricted to only aerial studies and the project area. referring the quantity and quality of the water on my farm. It is I assume you are referring to the future activities. In each EIA study important that there is something included for the farmer, even if it there are mitigation measures that has to be adhered to and is 10 years from now. conditions in the EA imposed by PASA. I&APs need to review the measures proposed. Secondly, before any work can be done on your farm, a land access agreement will have to be agreed to with the landowner, which will establish rules for work done on the farm as well as the compensation that will be given to the landowner. One of the reasons we are suspicious about this is because what Gerhard Hartman Noted. Penalties are stipulated if Rhino doesn’t adhere to the has happened in other areas in the past. I understand that this restrictions and measures put in place by the EIA and Environmental process isn’t like mining, but in the past areas have been Authorisation. destroyed by mining activities, they end up bankrupt and nothing is done to fix the damage. If the Vals River’s water is detrimentally affected in any way, it will have a massive impact on the farmers and residents in Lindley, Steynsrus and Kroonstad since it is our main water source. According to the latest Constitutional Court ruling, the state Noted. doesn’t own the mineral rights, but does have authority over the minerals underground. It generates distrust if a farm is shown not to be in the project area Noted. on the map but is included in the list of properties. I want to confirm your statement that although drilling isn’t in the Yes, a proper site specific study will be conducted when the drilling current work plan, drilling will take place on the so called sweet sites are identified. spots, and that a proper EIA will be conducted before the drilling takes place. When you amend the authorisation, what prevents you from Rikus Lamprecht It will require an additional application to increase the study area. You amending the boundaries of the application as well? can only relinquish areas without an additional application. The borders of the application is also most likely covered by another application, especially in the south, and there can’t be more than 1 application on the same property. But other companies can come and explore on the relinquished Yes, but it is unlikely that one company will apply for an area that has properties? already been relinquished by another. I have heard that effects of drilling can cover 25km, which is the Mr Van Niekerk There are too many unknowns at this stage to confirm how the entire Steynsrus area. Very few of us will be here in 10 years. resource will be extracted. We do not trust the state and the legislation. Noted.

4 Issue raised (during meeting) By whom Response A large company won’t come and spend all this money on Rikus Lamprecht Rhino is taking a huge risk. There is old data that indicates that there something if there isn’t a prospect of finding something. may be a resource, but they won’t know if the resource is there or if it is viable for extraction. What if they find gold when they drill? Mr Van Niekerk Rhino cannot claim a resource that they haven’t applied for as part of this ER scope. The competent authority is the body that decides yes or no, and Rikus Lamprecht They are also kept in check by legislation. If they aren’t objective, the they have to be objective. PASA is also the promoter of oil and decision they make is open to appeal. gas exploration. Is there not a conflict of interest? It is possible that Rhino will tell us that they are going to disturb a Gerhard Hartman Rhino will not expect of a landowner to suffer for us to do our large portion of our agricultural land for these activities and give us business. That has an impact on our social license to operate, since it minimal compensation. is not Rhino’s intention to do damage and leave. We plan to conduct business in this area for a while. The land access agreement will cover the compensation for the use of the land that has to be fair in terms of the impact that the presence of the activities will have on the farmer’s productivity and comfort. Since Rhino is owned by an American company, won’t that mean Rikus Lamprecht Rhino still has to pay taxes and royalties to the state. that the potential benefits will go to them? Why are some CBAs included in the application and other not? Rikus Lamprecht Depending on the status of the CBA, you can hold an exploration right over them, but you have to keep in mind the restrictions and limitations of the studies that can be done on them, especially ground work like drilling and seismic activities. We remain opposed to the project Mr Van Niekerk Noted. We aren’t completely satisfied with the response that we received Rikus Lamprecht Noted. to the comments we submitted during the scoping phase. It was vague.

5 APPENDIX 2: ATTENDANCE REGISTER Name Interest/Village Postal address Contact details

JC Pretorius

From: hobbs Sent: 11 October 2016 11:04 PM To: [email protected]; Matthew Hemming Subject: RHINO OIL ( SLR ) PETRUS STEYN MEETING 29 SEPTEMBER 2016 Lindley

Good Day Sirs Please receive my comments on above and your exploration plans for future(294 ER). It is with great regret that I have to say that the meeting organised at Petrus Steyn was badly organised and structured.As per notice meeting was scheduled for 29 September 2016 at 08h30 and 09h30.Needless to say on arrival after 60km drive no meeting. Phoned C J Pretorius and was informed that a mistake was made needless to say that the receptionist was not very helpful until I had to raise my voice to get results.Please tell her that all the North Eastern Free State Farmers and others can speak a African language so we do understand .

The end result of this all was that I had to drive 240 km at my cost for something you want in our area and also want to come and BEDONDER everything here.The unprofessional manner in which things are done will be a true reflection of future treatment we will receive at any stage of your efforts.Your SLR consultants are brilliant communicators and obviously have to make us believe that all is ok and calm us down,but I can guarantee you that we do not trust you for one moment.World wide companys like yours have taken people for a ride.

In your document you refer to the advantages for the disadvantaged and BBBBEE all this does not protect those who are feeding the masses. Your Philip and his American friends have not been seen at one meeting.This guy is a smooth operator promises. What we want is guarantees and foreign funds in a South African bank verified by our lawyers and managed together with Rhino Oil.The reason normally these explorers spoil the environment then disappear and leave the community to suffer.

We need up front plans with money involved for example; Sir if we damage your water supply we will seek and find alternative source for you at our cost.

Your document states that no fracking will take place in the first three year period, then you say if need be you will apply to PASA for additional exploration.so here we go screwed from the beginning.

I do know that Government owns mineral rights so we have no say because you do not come and say as mentioned above Sir if this happens we will do this and this at our cost.

YOUR INTENDED EARLY PHASE EXPLORATION DOES NOT HAVE MY SUPPORT BECAUSE AFTER THIS NOTHING WILL BE ABLE TO BE STOPPED.

AGAIN PHILIP AND HIS ASSOCIATES ARE NOT TRUSTED LOOK WHAT AMERICA LOOKS LIKE.

Regards Neville Hobbs

1 Name: Casper Wessels Farm Name/s: Wesselsrust Email: [email protected] Cell: 082 455 9942 12 October 2016 The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. Yes No  If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) There is game on the farm and flying will disturb the game. 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I Yes No strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA)  being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I Yes No request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact  included in this application or not? 4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground Yes No and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area.  5. Other objections / comments: Water in the region is already a problem this will enlarge the use of water and will influence the whole are negatively. Pollution of the current water will worsen the scenario even more .

………………………………………….. Signed

1. Name: …Daan Venter…………………………… Farm Name/s: …Grenfell60+Rietgat Email: …[email protected]…………………………………… Cell: 0832225493……………………………………… 12….. October 2016 The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. Yes If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration Yes activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the Yes project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not?

4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing Yes and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area. 5. Other objections / comments: …Sensitive Bird species reside on both farms may be influenced by low flying aircraft…

………Daan Venter………………………………….. Signed

Name: €rl *r, un*) Fa rm Na m"lr, .M.p..f. ?. JRg.n .-..... j.. tL..en.n ie,s.d.* *.[,...... Emait: d;Wr**b, *:yodamar/'cc,.Lc, Cell::Hffi;" ;ii; OctoOe r Z0t6 The EnvironmentatAssessment Practitioner - sLR consulting (south Africa) (pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] pretorius CC: JC icpretorius@slr

As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by Enviroworks on behalf of the members of Free state Agriculture vrystaat Landbou and VKB. /

1. ln particular, r have a probrem with the aeriar survey over my farm/s.

2' I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seiimic surveys and thus r strongly obiect to amending the exiting environmentat authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EtA be done for each hole drilled seismic survey / conducted if it were to be appricabre on any of my farms.

3' I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the I yell-N? project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated < on the ,.p .nJ i I I I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not?

4' I strongly obiect to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic and/orinyott,.,meansofmineratextractionthatmaypotlutetrresrou'l5ffiFracturir and surface water resources on which we {epend in the application area. s. other objections / commen rrrffi#-..f.a.r,mi*.€ffi,1. ;:.q:ii&{w n/ zon <- t,"/ And hof a rnininE zon{

Signed

JC Pretorius

From: jannie Sent: 12 October 2016 11:49 AM To: Matthew Hemming Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER)

Name: …Jannie Reyneke…………………………………… Farm Name/s: ……Maidstone…………………………… ………Rischton……………………………… Email: [email protected]…… Cell: …0829400992…………………………………… …12.. October 2016 The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. Yes No x If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses

emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) …………………………………sensitive equipment that may be damage by electro- magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …

2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and Yes No thus I strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground x based exploration activities . I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms.

3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not?

4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the Yes No ground and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area. x

5. Other objections / comments: ……………………………………………………………………

………………………………………….. Yes No Right-click here to download pictures. To help pro tect your privacy, Outlook prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet. clip_image002 x

Signed

Name: Q.C Antunes Farm Name/s: DAMPLAAS, LEEUWKLIP, BETHAL, ROOIRAND Email: [email protected] Cell:0845041562 12 October 2016 The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. Yes If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) Yes being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities . I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact Yes included in this application or not? 4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area. Yes 5. Other objections / comments: ……………………………………………………………………

Signed

1. Name: ...Willem Beyers.....,. Farm Name/s: ...... Mahem I Pocklington / Crystalfontein / Kwartelvley I Naauwpoort...... Cornelia / Vrede...... ,..., Email : ...... corliabeyers@gmail,com,....,.. Cell: ...082 881 3635...

12..... October 2016

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius icpretorius(oslrconsultinP.com RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (1213/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB.

1. tn particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. lf Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting seoson, sensitive equipment thot may be damoged by electro-mognetic pulses emitted from the plones sensing equipment, etc.)

2.i I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied tor, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled'/ seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms.

3. I am conceifred tfiat my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the proiect, but they liei outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this applicatr'on or not?

4. ], stfongly object to any actions that may lead to hydraulic Fracturing ahd/or any other means of mineral extraction that m4y pollute the ground and surface'water resources on which we depend in the application area. s' I pther obigctions / comments: For any chapges in purrent surface or groundwater quality, tifestile changes, damage to propefi, any emotional ,,. str€ss or dSmage to me'or my familn any change brought about inaurrent farm activities and practices as a result of activitielby , appli+p nt wi I I be,hekl acco\mtab! Sor;, .,. ft l,i 6ns sgned:wBevers l' / ffi '/ro/( 'i.

Name . cU";ld;:;:V7r"~i.c;::~'$.l..¥'JU;.·•,•;.-_ £'-;,;. ' Stiet:fiPon'6eIQ· Farm Name/s •. _ •••. II -~••••••• ~ •.•.._~!~ •••••••• ~ •••••••••••••••••

. ~jj;~d:'~f;;~E"i'G5;;;;c//~co/2q./' Email: ~.;.; -•;~.~. .~.;-;;.•.•...... Cell: Q$..?=..?:l}..f1..Ul} ,.

(~. October 2016

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLRConsulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

Bye-mail: [email protected]@slrconsulting.com CC: [email protected] en [email protected]

RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREESTATE (12/3/294 ER)

As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB.

1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/so If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive 1;(1::1 equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from . ! the planes sensing equipment, etc.) .!f~·,g 9..q..f!~ ;.ql]i.Sbfj!:.P. &~?':Cl·t;b.·?····· . .f?QU?.~ J{Yt.!. Q!.s.i::!J.r.t.? ..!!!J Q(?!.ty].9 $. '" : . 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I IY)( I No I strongly object to amending the existing environmental authorisation (EA) i . being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms.

3. I am concerned that my farrn/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farrn/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not?

4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area.

~mments: ••••••••••..•••••••••••••••••.••••••••••.••••••••••••••••••••••••.••••••••••••

...... ~ . Signed -

1. Email·...•••.••.•.••••..•••.•••.....•.~;;;j~;;"·=••:;~~~~Jor~/1••••••••.•.•• cazo. .

Cell. OZ23773il}'7 .

13...,'0 cto ber 2016

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

Bye-mail: [email protected]@slrconsulting.com CC: [email protected] en [email protected]

RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREESTATE (12/3/294 ER)

As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB.

1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/so Yes No If Yes, for the followtng reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive XNO equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) ...~.•.. ..(1 ·CQ $I.re ··.·Cir,d,·Sl7J;€PD i.2t'&r-me"",c;:6he;J;··;.;< . .·go/i...... ~·.···...··'....tA]...i·V....;,l··.··....·CIi!SEii...... rf:j····2J!¢{·-:·:·;;··a;:);~7.9··:·····.····· . 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I strongly object to amending the existing environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms.

3. I am concerned that my farrn/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not?

Signed

Name: JW Smalberger.…………….. Farm Name/s: Moreson……………….……… ……………………………………… Email: [email protected]..… Cell: 0832603234…………..……… 13 October 2016 The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. Yes If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive

equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) Exotic.game.farming……………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration Yes activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the Yes project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not?

4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing Yes and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area. 5. Other objections / comments: ……………………………………………………………………

…… ……. Signed

Name: Werner Krugel Farm Name/s: Eensgevonden 647 & Klippie Alleen 436 Email: [email protected] Cell: 083 275 9151 13 October 2016

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. Yes No There are breeding Blue Crane birds on my farm. They are very sensitive and low flying aircraft and magnetic pulses could negatively affect them, their breeding cycle and potentially cause them to relocate to another area. 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied Yes No for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not? Yes No 4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area.

5. Other objections / comments: As stated in the EIA report I feel the issues raised in Yes No terms of mistrust of government and the lack of political will and ability to enforce compliance to legislation is valid. Looking at the significant negative environmental impact of mines in Mpumalanga one can only get to the conclusion that with money in the right hands anything goes and that is not at all acceptable. Should this application result in future production, there is no certainty that correct operating procedures will be followed to minimize environmental impact or that proper rehabilitation will happen post operation. Even if in the unlikely event of compliance, there is still a real concern to the sustainability of farms in the area of operations, as following procedures could minimise impacts, but there are still impacts. Also the concerns previously raised about water polution and availability, security etc still remains.

Farm Name/s:

€cv"t E ma i I : .VtF.Xt :*mryfle.W,l' cerl:...?8&7,22** . .l& october 2oti I The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (1213/294 ER} As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. [G;TN;l L. ln particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. lf Yes, for the following reasons: (e.9. game form hunting seoson, sensitive / mll equipment thot may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the plones sensing equipment, etc.) ii

l 2. I welcome in the draft EIR report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) ru being applied tor, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my ii farms. ::

3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact ru request confirmation whether included in this application or not? 4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground tr-Fq \l l and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area. 5. Other objections / comments:

Signed ,/'V'

1. N a me : .,D\J=....)mn....R*essrowl \rl i n Fa rm Na melt' ..$..1.4{*s*.h",N......

E m a i I : . i=**\=;,Sr.ffis.--...9..R)*d.r \ . s s r^

ce I I : ..?FP. 3--.*.t.s..\)-......

i.k. October ZOuG

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting {South Africa} (Pty} Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPTICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (1213/294 ER} As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No L. ln particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. x No lf Yes, for the following reasons: (e.9. game form / hunting seoson, sensitive equipment thot moy be damaged by electro-mognetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) ....[..v.s-#-&v.t .,=...

2. I welcome in the draft flA report the exclusion of ground based exploration No activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I Y strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms.

3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the No project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I x request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not?

4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing No and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground x and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area.

1. Name: f]+\c sa^ Fa rm Na me t t, ....J....Y.t) 4.f;......

Ema i I : ..r lF.Hr-..-e.qrn"t' =#h.y. =sh^' ce I I : ...9.S..*.1]-e. 8..)s..\h...... l}t october 2oL6

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting {South Africa} (Pty} ttd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPTORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROTEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (1213/294 ER} As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. IY";TN;l 1. ln particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. lf Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. gome farm / hunting seoson, sensitive rtr equipment thot may be domaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) il )1 ...[.t:l-...sF-=k-..L.*.?......

I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of gr:ound based exploration No activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I Y strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms.

3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the No project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I X request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not?

1, N a m e : DH.=...... s..*n.....Bs+su,..=J Farm Name/s: ...).L!l;:r.\.k;:rtf.].}u..... l

Emait : .,=#k...-...rss.=;....9-.8** \ . .-.

ce I I : ..9F.3]:.P..t*.tn

.l.h october 201.6

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROTEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE {1213/294 ERI As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. ln particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. x' No lf Yes, for the following reasons: (e.9. game form / hunting seoson, sensitive equipment thot may be damaged by electro-mognetic pulses emitted from the plones sensing equipment, etc.) ...!rs.=..*::5=.S*.t-....

2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration No activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I x strongly obiect to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms.

4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing No and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground v and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area.

1. Farm Name/s:

I . " E m a i I : .....iH]ts-..\t ]S"s/. ... S". Enr+ :q-

.19. october 2Ot6

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected]

RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAT IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPTORATION RIGHT APPTICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS !N THE FREE STATE (1213/294 ER)

As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. ln particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. 'Y No lf Yes, for the following reasons: (e.9. game form / hunting seoson, sensitive equipment thot moy be domaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the plones sensing equipment, etc.)

.. ).rs*. sF..=5-- ...&* o. .

2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration No activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I Y strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied tor, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. ii 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact ffi included in this application or not? 4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area. rE

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The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. ln particular, I have a problem with the aerialsurvey over my farm/s. No lf Yes, for the following reasons: (e.9. game farm / hunting seoson, sensitive x equipment that may be damaged by electro-mognetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.)

2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) ry being applied tor, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. ii 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact ry included in this application or not? 4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing lVl*"1 and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground -/,\ 11I I and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area.

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The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Ptyl ttd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming

By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROTEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (1213/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No L. ln particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. No If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.9. game farm / hunting seoson, sensitive X equipment thot may be domoged by electro-mognetic pulses emitted from the plones sensing equipment, etc.) ...lis=,#*-..Gu.,,"=

2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration No activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus ! x strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms.

4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing No and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground Y and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area.

Name: DJ Kriek Farm Name/ 3 Tweesprui onderverdelins & Blaauwbosspruit, Reitz Email: [email protected] Cell: 082 944 0566 14 October 2016 The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. X If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) Sensitive GPS and radio equipment, and game 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I X strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I X request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not? 4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground X and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area. 5. Other objections / comments: Apart from this comments and objections, all my previous objections remain valid and in force!!!

DJ Kriek per e-mail Signed

The Environmental Assessment Practitioner SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. P.O. Box 1596 Cramerview 2060 14 October 2016 Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming Tel: 011 467 0945

Dear Mr. Hemming RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE, MPUMALANGA & GAUTENG PROVINCES (12/3/294 ER)

Enviroworks, an independent environmental consultancy, has been appointed by VKB Agriculture and all its stakeholders and members as well as Free State Agriculture, to comment on the Environmental Impact Report for the above mentioned project on their behalf.

Comments on Draft Environmental Impact Report 1. We are firstly constrained to express reservation regarding the competent authority’s (PASA) ability to objectively assess and adjudicate the application moreover inasmuch as its mandate it stated to be: “To promote exploration for onshore and offshore oil and gas resources and the optimal development on behalf of the Government.”

2. The Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) of the project and applicant representative confirmed the following during the Public Participation meeting conducted in the town of Steynsrus on 29 September 2016:

No possible future amendment or request to increase the size of the reduced proposed project area (which has been decreased in size) will be submitted or permitted. The proposed exploration area will therefore not be enlarged at any stage.

3. The following statements have been extracted from the report:

“If the application is approved, Rhino Oil and Gas would be in a position to conduct the remote exploration and to develop a more detailed understanding of the potential oil and gas resources in the ER area. Thereafter, should Rhino Oil and Gas propose to conduct ground-based exploration activities this would need to be informed by a further application to PASA and a separate environmental assessment and authorisation process.”

“If such work were to be proposed by Rhino Oil and Gas then it would be required to seek further approval from PASA in terms of the MPRDA and NEMA. Any further approval would be subject to an additional environmental assessment process with further public consultation as is required by NEMA.”

“No further ground-based exploration, appraisal or well drilling and future production forms part of the current ER application. Thus no extraction of hydrocarbons or water, no stimulation of wells

or hydraulic fracturing (fracking) is proposed in the initial three-year exploration work programme for which approval is sought. If the early-phase exploration were to confirm the presence of a potential resource, then Rhino Oil and Gas would need to seek further authorisation / approval from PASA for any additional exploration work required to appraise the resource. Any further approval would be subject to an additional environmental assessment (or environmental authorisation amendment) process with further public consultation and specialist input.”

“Thereafter, should Rhino Oil and Gas propose to conduct ground based exploration activities (core boreholes and seismic surveys) this would necessitate a further application to PASA and a separate environmental assessment and authorisation process in terms of NEMA.”

It was indicated by the Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) of the project during the Public Participation meeting conducted in the town of Steynsrus on 29 September 2016 that should the applicant wish to further the project after the initial early exploration phase an amendment to the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) will simply be applied for. We are strongly opposed to this procedural route being followed and require that a completely new environmental authorisation (EA) application and subsequent Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process be conducted. The applicant has also indicated that a completely new EA and EIA process will ensue as per the extraction from the report above.

The reason for this requirement is that the severity and extent of impacts associated with the activities which are now initially being applied for to be authorised in the EA will differ significantly from the subsequent proposed activities and far greater impacts associated with the next phase of the exploration. A simple amendment to an existing EA will therefore not justify the significant change in scope and increase in impacts. We therefore require that new separate EA applications and subsequent EIA processes be conducted for any further future activities of the project rather than existing EA amendments.

The highlighted section extracted from the report also confirms the fact that no EA amendments to include ground based exploration will occur during the initial 3 year early exploration phase.

Only once the 3 year exploration phase has been completed can amendments or additional EA applications be submitted.

4. The following statement has been extracted from section 4.1:

“Rhino Oil and Gas Exploration South Africa (Pty) Ltd is a South African registered subsidiary of Rhino Resources Ltd., an independent oil and gas exploration and development company focused on Africa.”

The main and ultimate benefactor of the rights over the exploration and subsequent future extraction and utilisation of the natural resources being applied for will therefore be an American based corporation. The rights over our own local natural resources are being lost to outside the country.

5. The following statement has been extracted from section 4.4:

“A list of the properties (farm name, number and portion), with the 21 digit Surveyor General code, included in the exploration right application area is provided in Appendix 2.”

The list of properties in Appendix 2 does not coincide with the map indicating the affected proposed project area and associated properties. The list must be reviewed in order to exclude the names and details of all farms which do not fall inside the revised proposed project area as per the map.

6. The following statement has been extracted from section 4.5.4:

SOURCE ROCK GEOCHEMISTRY DATABASE Also in the 1st and 2nd years, Rhino Oil and Gas would acquire data on source-rock geochemistry. This may include the acquisition of rock samples from surface outcrops for laboratory analysis. A database on geochemistry of the region would be compiled.

We are opposed to the potential acquisition of rock samples from surface outcrops as this was not indicated or discussed during any Public Participation meetings to be part of the early exploration process scope. It was firmly and repeatedly stipulated by the EAP and applicant representative that the current EA application and early exploration phase scope would only include Full Tensor Gradiometry Gravity Survey (FTG).

Section 4.5.4 must therefore be removed from the EIA project scope.

7. During the planning regarding the timing and duration of the FTG surveys, the presence of game farms in the area needs to be considered. No flying may take place over or in the vicinity of game farms during the hunting or animal breeding/mating seasons. Permission must first be obtained from relevant game farm land owners prior to conducting FTG surveys in relevant areas.

8. Comments in accordance with the discussion under point 3 above regarding headings4.5.6 and 4.5.7:

If core borehole drilling or seismic data acquisition is to be undertaken as discussed under headings 4.5.6 and 4.5.7 of the report respectively, a new EA application and subsequent EIA process must be conducted. This cannot simply form part of an amendment of the existing EA due to the significant changes in scope activities and associated severity of impacts.

9. Comments regarding headings 5.1.6 & 5.1.7:

The proposed project area is a water stressed region with regards to surface and groundwater resources. The potential effects and impacts on water quantities and qualities which the subsequent exploration and even more so the ultimate production/extraction processes might have on water resources in the region must therefore already be realistically investigated and taken into account during the current project processes in order to advise on the practical future viability of the propose project. This has however not been done by the applicant.

10. Comments regarding heading 5.1.8:

Three of the vegetation types within which the proposed project area falls are classified as vulnerable while a further two are classified as endangered. The potential future exploration and ultimate production/extraction activities will place significant additional strain on these already stressed vegetation types.

11. Comments regarding heading 5.1.8.3:

“Numerous protected areas are located within the boundary of the proposed exploration area but these properties are excluded from the application area.”

The exclusion of only the properties of protected areas within the proposed project site will not be sufficient. Sufficient buffer zones also need to be implemented around the outer boundaries of the protected areas in order to prevent any potential external edge impacts from occurring. The required sizes of such adequate buffer zones need to be determined by a suitably qualified and experienced ecologist familiar with the specific areas.

In accordance with the Free State Biodiversity Plan (2014) various significant Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBA) are present within the proposed project area. These should also be excluded from the EA application as has been done with other protected areas.

12. The following statement has been extracted from heading 6.1.3:

“Based on a light aircraft (e.g. Cessna) flying at a low altitude of + 80 m, it is estimated that the maximum noise level would not exceed 70 dBA outdoors and 60 dBA indoors.”

How was this estimation/assumption made? No mention is made of any specialist consultation in this regard.

13. The potential cumulative effects with regards to other significant similar exploration applications occurring in the adjacent and greater Free State area must be adequately investigated and discussed during any further EA applications and EIA processes to be conducted for ground based exploration activities.

14. Under heading 7 the size of the ER application area is referred to as only approximately 110 527 ha. This is incorrect, please correct in final report prior to submission to the competent authority.

15. Comments regarding heading 5.1.8.3:

NEMA: EIA Regulation 39. (1) If the proponent is not the owner or person in control of the land on which the activity is to be undertaken, the proponent must, before applying for an environmental authorisation in respect of such activity, obtain the written consent of the landowner or person in control of the land to undertake such activity on that land.

It is required by Regulation 39 of the NEMA: EIA Regulations of 2014 (see above) that all landowners of the relevant properties must be informed of an intended environmental authorisation application being submitted for his/her property. All relevant landowners have not been informed of the EA application and intended exploration. This regulation has therefore not been complied with and we therefore object against the authorisation of the proposed exploration project prior to this requirement being adequately met.

All comments and feedback received during the various Public Partition Processes must be fully incorporated into a PPP Report and submitted to the competent authority along with the Final Environmental Impact Report.

16. Please indicate and comprehensively discuss the following concern in the final EIA Report:

Part 91 General Aviation and Operating Flight Rules [ As amended by GNR 532 of 30 July 2013, GNR 783 of 1 September 2015 and GNR 1026 of 30 October 2015.] List of Regulations: General Aviation and Operating Flight Rules

91.06.32 (1) Except when necessary for taking off, or landing, or except with prior written approval of the Director, no aircraft—

(a) shall be flown over congested areas or over an obvious open-air assembly of persons at a height less than 1 000 ft above the highest obstacle, within a radius of 2 000 ft from the aircraft;

(b) when flown elsewhere than specified in paragraph (a), shall be flown at a height less than 500 ft above the ground or water, unless the flight can be made without hazard or nuisance to persons or property on the ground or water and the PIC operates at a height and in a manner that allows safe operation in the event of an engine failure; and

How will the potential liability of risks associated with the flying of the aeroplane be addressed and covered. What funds and insurance is in place to compensate in the event that the aeroplane crashes and results in the burning down of agricultural farm land or infrastructure. How will the applicant take responsibility in such an event and what funds and resources are available for such an emergency event. An emergency plan needs to be included in the Final EIA Report to adequately address this concern.

Please feel free to contact us in the event of any questions or uncertainties.

Regards

Rikus Lamprecht/Johan Botes Senior Environmental Specialists 072 230 9598 [email protected]

This document has been peer reviewed and comments provided from a legislative perspective by Christo Reeders Attorneys.

Scanned by CamScanner Scanned by CamScanner

Name: Bellary Trust – JA Kriek Farm Name/ Bellary, Reitz Email: [email protected] Cell: 072 1535 117 14 October 2016 The Environmental Assessment Practitioner - SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Attention: Mr. Matthew Hemming By e-mail: [email protected] CC: JC Pretorius [email protected] RE: COMMENTS ON THE DRAFT ENVIROMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE (12/3/294 ER) As owner of the abovementioned farms I hereby confer with the comments made by EnviroWorks on behalf of the members of Free State Agriculture / Vrystaat Landbou and VKB. Yes No 1. In particular, I have a problem with the aerial survey over my farm/s. X If Yes, for the following reasons: (e.g. game farm / hunting season, sensitive equipment that may be damaged by electro-magnetic pulses emitted from the planes sensing equipment, etc.) Sensitive GPS and radio equipment, and game 2. I welcome in the draft EIA report the exclusion of ground based exploration activities such as core borehole drilling and seismic surveys and thus I X strongly object to amending the exiting environmental authorisation (EA) being applied for, in the future to reintroduce any ground based exploration activities. I will insist that a new EIA be done for each hole drilled / seismic survey conducted if it were to be applicable on any of my farms. 3. I am concerned that my farm/s appear on the list of farms included in the project, but they lie outside of the outline area as indicated on the map and I X request confirmation whether my specific farm/s as listed above are in fact included in this application or not? 4. I strongly object to any actions that may lead to Hydraulic Fracturing and/or any other means of mineral extraction that may pollute the ground X and surface water resources on which we depend in the application area. 5. Other objections / comments: Apart from this comments and objections, all my previous objections remain valid and in force!!!

JA Kriek per e-mail Signed

JC Pretorius

From: alteatromp Sent: 14 October 2016 10:26 AM To: Matthew Hemming Subject: Rhino oil gas exploration

LOS GOEIE BOERDERY GRONDE UIT. Onder geen omstandighede wil ons enige gas ontginning op ons boerderygronde in die Vrede /Memel omgewing hê nie. Daar is meer as genoeg steenkoolmyne asook ander myne wat reeds die aarde besoedel het en waar boerdery aktiwiteite gestaak is weens besoedeling. Gas ontginning kan by hierdie myne gedoen word. Meer as genoeg gate kan geboor word dat teen die tyd wat julle by die laaste gat kom, julle weer terug kan gaan na die eerste een en van vooraf begin ontgin. Water is geweldig skaars in Suid-Afrika. Al hoe meer aardbewings en aard trillings kom voor. Daar is GEEN manier wat julle waterbesoedeling kan keer nie. Buiten besoedeling kan julle ons waterare afsny of blokkeer wat sal veroorsaak dat ons fonteine en boorgate opdroog. Oortollige gasse gaan lug, grond en waterbesoedeling, aardverwarming en suurreën veroorsaak. NEE en nogmaals NEE vir Gas ontginning in Vrede /Memel Vrystaat omgewing.

M. Tromp

Sent from my Samsung device

JC Pretorius

From: JC Pretorius Sent: 28 April 2016 02:59 PM To: Elbi Bredenkamp Cc: Matthew Hemming Subject: RE: UPDATE ON SCOPING AND EIA PROCESS: APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IN SUPPORT OF AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS (12/3/294 ER) Attachments: 2016-04-25_SLR Scoping Report_Rhino Free State 294ER.pdf

TrackingTracking: Recipient Delivery Elbi Bredenkamp

Matthew Hemming Delivered: 2016/04/28 02:59 PM

Dear Elbi,

As requested please find attached the final Scoping Report submitted to PASA. In addition, the revised report, figures and appendices are also available to download from the SLR ftp site. To do so, please visit: ftp.slrconsulting.co.za . Username: 1013151012 Password: wiutgf783e32 Navigate to the Folder called: Final Scoping Report.

Please let me know if there are any queries in this regard.

Regards,

From: Elbi Bredenkamp [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 25 April 2016 06:25 PM To: JC Pretorius Cc: Matthew Hemming Subject: RE: UPDATE ON SCOPING AND EIA PROCESS: APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IN SUPPORT OF AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS (12/3/294 ER)

Dear JC and Mathew

Can we get a copy of the SR that was submitted to the Department today?

Kind regards/ Vriendelike groete

Elbi

Certified Professional Scientist (Pr.Sci.Nat. 400328/11) Certified Carbon Footprint Assessor(CPSA) ISO 14064-3 International Standards Carbon Verifier

From: JC Pretorius [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 25 April 2016 05:15 PM To: JC Pretorius < [email protected] > Cc: Matthew Hemming < [email protected] > Subject: UPDATE ON SCOPING AND EIA PROCESS: APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IN SUPPORT OF AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS (12/3/294 ER)

ATTENTION: LAND OWNER/STAKEHOLDER/IAP

Dear Sir/Madam

UPDATE ON SCOPING AND EIA PROCESS: APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONME NTAL AUTHORISATION IN SUPPORT OF AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE, MPUMALANGA AND GAUTENG PROVINCES (12/3/294 ER)

Our previous correspond ence of the week of 25 January 2016 regarding the above mentioned exploration right application refers.

As you are aware Rhino Oil and Gas Exploration South Africa (Pty) Ltd (Rhino Oil & Gas) has lodged an application for an exploration right with the Pe troleum Agency South Africa (PASA) in terms of section 79 of the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (28 of 2002) (MPRDA) over properties across a large area of the Free State Province, and smaller areas of Mpumalanga and Gauteng (Ref: 12/3/29 4 ER). Rhino Oil & Gas has subsequently made an application to PASA for environmental authorisation of exploration activities as set out in Listing Notice 2 (GN R 984), made in terms of Section 24(5) of the National Environmental Management Act (107 of 1998) (NEMA).

SLR Consulting (Pty) Ltd is appointed as the independent environmental assessment practitioner and is undertaking a Scoping and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process in terms of the EIA Regulations 2014 (GNR 982, 8 December 2014).

As required in terms of the EIA Regulations, the Scoping Report was made available to registered interested and affected parties for a 30-day comment period from 7 March 2016 to 11 April 2016 (including provision for 3 public holidays). The comments have b een compiled and responded to in a ‘Draft Scoping Report Comments Table’ in the updated Scoping Report. Copies of each submitted comment have been

2 enclosed in the Scoping Report. Where relevant, changes have been made to the Scoping Report in response to issues raised.

You are hereby informed that the Scoping Report has been submitted to PASA today for consideration in terms of Regulation 22 of the EIA Regulations, 2014. PASA has 43 days to reach a decision.

Should PASA accept the Scoping Report, the En vironmental Impact Assessment phase of the process would then commence. SLR will have 107 day to compile an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The EIR will be made available for a 30-day review period and a further notice in this regard will be distribute d to registered interested and affected parties closer to the time.

Please pass this letter onto any other persons whom you know may have an interest in the project. We welcome any comment or questions. Thank you for your ongoing involvement in the Scopi ng and EIA process.

Yours faithfully

Matthew Hemming MSc (Conservation Biology) Environmental Assessment Practitioner

JC Pretorius Environmental Assessment Practitioner SLR Consulting (Africa) (Pty) Ltd

Email: [email protected] Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2038 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

SLR Africa (Block 7) Fourways Manor Office Park Cnr Roos and Macbeth Streets Fourways, Johannesburg, 2060 South Africa

3 Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer

This communication and any attachment(s) contains information which is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is intended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please email us by return mail and then delete the email from your system together with any copies of it. Please note that you are not permitted to print, copy, disclose or use part or all of the content in any way.

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SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited and SLR Consulting (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited are both subsidiaries of SLR Management Ltd. Registered Office: Unit 7 Fourways Manor Office Park, Cnr Roos and Macbeth Street, Fourways, 2191, Gauteng, South Africa

4 JC Pretorius

From: JC Pretorius Sent: 28 April 2016 03:05 PM To: Du Plessis, Gerhard - FC Accounting Control: Absa Subject: RE: UPDATE ON SCOPING AND EIA PROCESS: APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IN SUPPORT OF AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS (12/3/294 ER) Attachments: 2016-04-25_SLR Scoping Report_Rhino Free State 294ER.pdf

Goeie dag Gerhard,

Ek stuur hiermee vir jou ‘n kopie van die verslag. Die aanhangsels en figure is ongelukkig te veel om te e-pos en is beskikbaar om af te laai op SLR se ftp-werf. Om dit te besoek, gaan na: ftp.slrconsulting.co.za . Username: 1013151012 Password: wiutgf783e32 Gaan na die leer genaamd: Final Scoping Report.

Laat weet asseblief as daar enige navrae in hierdie verband is.

Groete,

From: Du Plessis, Gerhard - FC Accounting Control: Absa [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 26 April 2016 08:11 AM To: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: UPDATE ON SCOPING AND EIA PROCESS: APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IN SUPPORT OF AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS (12/3/294 ER)

Waar kry mens ‘n kopie van die omvangsverslag

Gerhard du Plessis

From: JC Pretorius [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 25 April 2016 17:15 To: JC Pretorius Cc: Matthew Hemming Subject: UPDATE ON SCOPING AND EIA PROCESS: APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IN SUPPORT OF AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS (12/3/294 ER)

ATTENTION: LAND OWNER/STAKEHOLDER/IAP

Dear Sir/Madam

UPDATE ON SCOPING AND EIA PROCESS: APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHOR ISATION IN SUPPORT OF AN EXPLORATION RIGHT APPLICATION FOR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE FREE STATE, MPUMALANGA AND GAUTENG PROVINCES (12/3/294 ER)

Our previous correspondence of t he week of 25 January 2016 regarding the above mentioned exploration right application refers.

As you are aware Rhino Oil and Gas Exploration South Africa (Pty) Ltd (Rhino Oil & Gas) has lodged an application for an exploration right with the Petroleum A gency South Africa (PASA) in terms of section 79 of the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (28 of 2002) (MPRDA) over properties across a 1 large area of the Free State Province, and smaller areas of Mpumalanga and Gauteng (Ref: 12/3/294 ER). Rhino Oil & Gas has subsequently made an application to PASA for environmental authorisation of exploration activities as set out in Listing Notice 2 (GN R 984), made in terms of Section 24(5) of the National Environmental Management Act (107 of 1998) (NEMA).

As required in terms of the EIA Regulations, the Scoping Report was made available to registered interested and affected parties for a 30-day comment period from 7 March 2016 to 11 April 2016 (including provision for 3 public holidays). The comments have been compiled and responded to in a ‘Draft Scoping Report Comments Table’ in the updated Scoping Report. Copies of each submitted comment have been enclosed in the Scoping Report. Where relevant, changes have been made to the Scoping Report in response to issues raised.

You are hereby informed that the Scoping Report has been submitted to PASA today for consideration in terms of Regulation 22 of the EIA Regulations, 2014. PASA has 43 days to reach a decision.

Should PASA accept the Scoping Report, the E nvironmental Impact Assessment phase of the process would then commence. SLR will have 107 day to compile an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The EIR will be made available for a 30-day review period and a further notice in this regard will be distribut ed to registered interested and affected parties closer to the time.

Yours faithfully

Matthew Hemming MSc (Conservation Biology) Environmental Assessment Practitioner

2 JC Pretorius Environmental Assessment Practitioner SLR Consulting (Africa) (Pty) Ltd

Email: [email protected] Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2038 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

SLR Africa (Block 7) Fourways Manor Office Park Cnr Roos and Macbeth Streets Fourways, Johannesburg, 2060 South Africa

Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer

This communication and any attachment(s) contains information wh ich is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is intended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please email us by return mail and then delete the email from your system together with any copies of it. Please note that you are not permitted to print, copy, disclose or use part or all of the content in any way.

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3 JC Pretorius

From: Gwen Gosney Sent: 13 May 2016 09:33 AM To: JC Pretorius Subject: I&AP Registaration

Hi JC,

I see that you are working on an EIA for Rhino Oil and Gas.

Do you know how many exploration applications they have made in SA? I would like to register TCTA and / or myself as an I &AP in relevant EIAs. I have the ER 294 one BID on my table but was hoping for a bigger picture of the planned Rhino explorations.

Thanks Gwen

Gwen Gosney [ Environmental Manager ]

PO Box 10335, Centurion 0046 1st Floor Stinkhout Wing Tuinhof Building 265 West Rd Centurion

Tel: +27 12 683 1327 Fax: +27 86 296 0820 Mobile: +27 82 803 1740

Web: www.tcta.co.za

Disclaimer

The information contained in this communication from the sender is confidential. It is intended solely for use by the recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distrib ution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful.

This email has been scanned for viruses and malware, and automatically archived by Mimecast SA (Pty) Ltd , an innovator in Software as a Service (SaaS) for business. Mimecast Unified Email Management ™ (UEM) offers email continuity, security, archiving and compliance with all current legislation. To find out more, contact Mimecast .

1 JC Pretorius

From: Gavin Jankielsohn Sent: 13 June 2016 06:47 PM To: Matthew Hemming Subject: Mining.

Hi, just to let you know that we are not interested and appose the drilling for gas on the farms Jacomi 1, 3, and 4 Wesselsbron. We are not happy with the security aspects and the polluting of our ground water.

Thanking You Gavin Jankielsohn.

Sent from my iPhone

JC Pretorius

From: Vaal Haven Properties Sent: 19 April 2016 12:09 PM To: Matthew Hemming Cc: Maureen Stewart Subject: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Importance: High

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

19 April 2016

Dear Sir

SAVE (vaaldam) has only now become aware of the application for the abovementioned matter. Please register SAVE (vaaldam) as an IAP.

We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available so that we can comment.

Please provide copies of the adverts that were placed in the relevant newspapers and in particular the adverts that were placed on the actual affected farms.

The Vaaldam is Gauteng’s drinking water resource and this activity will severely affect the Vaal River and Vaaldam’s water quality and borehole quality that the surrounding farmers use for drinking purposes. This will ultimately also negatively affect the surrounding farms that are being used for crop growing and cattle breeding which ultimately feeds our nation.

Unfortunately time is limited and we are not able to go through the mountain of paperwork in order to comment fully by tomorrow.

Kind regards

Irene Main

Mobile: 078 521 1676 Email: [email protected]

2 JC Pretorius

From: Judith Taylor Sent: 19 April 2016 02:26 PM To: 'Vaal Haven Properties' Cc: Matthew Hemming Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Thanks Irene. Matthew please register me as an I&AP

Regards Judith Judith Taylor Member Core Group EarthLife Africa Joburg Cell 082 389 3481 Tel: 011 802-2685 Direct 011 045 2401 NB: If a landline is not answered, please try the Cell Phones! Skype judithnkwe Taylor [email protected] 126 Kelvin Drive Morningside Manor 2191 www.earthlife.org.za

From: Vaal Haven Properties [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 19 April 2016 13:16 To: Judith; Judith Taylor Subject: Fw: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear All

Please see the attached map to show you the affected areas of the intended mining exploration right and related correspondence. We have registered as an IAP and will comment on the draft and final EIA report. Unfortunately the time to comment expires tomorrow and we have only just become aware of this.

Please register as an Interested and Affected Party.

Please visit: ftp.slrconsulting.co.za .

Username: 1013151012. Password: wiutgf783e32. Navigate to the Folder called: REVISED Draft Scoping Report for the relevant documentation

Kind regards

Irene Main

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

19 April 2016

Dear Sir

SAVE (vaaldam) has only now become aware of the application for the abovementioned matter. Please register SAVE (vaaldam) as an IAP.

We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available so that we can comment.

Please provide copies of the adverts that were placed in the relevant newspapers and in particular the adverts that were placed on the actual affected farms.

Unfortunately time is limited and we are not able to go through the mountain of paperwork in order to comment fully by tomorrow.

Kind regards

Irene Main

Mobile: 078 521 1676 Email: [email protected]

From: Mariette Liefferink < [email protected] > Date: Tuesday, April 19, 2016 at 8:49 AM To: 'Maureen Stewart' < [email protected] >, Irene Maine < [email protected] >, AAAAA Rosemary Anderson < [email protected] >, 'Jan Jooste' < [email protected] > Subject: FW: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

2 Dear Friends,

Please see subjoined response from SLR.

The time period for comment will prescribed tomorrow. I shall regrettably not be in the position to peruse the documents and comment before tomorrow. I shall however, in the interim, access the documents with appendices, and prepare comments for the draft and final EIA Report.

Please be so kind as to keep in contact regarding this application.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

From: Matthew Hemming [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 04:02 PM To: Alex Pheiffer < [email protected] >; Mariette Liefferink < [email protected] > Cc: JC Pretorius < [email protected] > Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Good afternoon Mariette

Welcome to the FSE as an interested and affected party on the project. Please refer to my contact information in my email signature below.

It is correct that final Scoping Report for the project is due to PASA this week and thus the period for public comment has closed. It is in fact the revised Scoping Report that is due to PASA, the time extension for the scoping having already occurred in the period January to April 2016. Please refer to the attached letter.

You are however welcome to submit your comments on the application and/or Scoping Report and we will receive these for consideration in the EIA process.

I have attached the BID as well as a copy of the Scoping Report that is in the public domain. There are many too appendices to the scoping report to email. These can be made available on a CD or downloaded from the SLR ftp site. To do so, please visit: ftp.slrconsulting.co.za . Username: 1013151012. Password: wiutgf783e32. Navigate to the Folder called: REVISED Draft Scoping Report.

Kind regards

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager

3 SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 82 940 8274 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

SLR Africa (Block 7) Fourways Manor Office Park Cnr Roos and Macbeth Streets Fourways, Johannesburg, 2060 South Africa

Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer This communication and any attachment(s) contains information which is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is i ntended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please email us by return mail and then delete the email from your system together with any copies of it. Please note that you are not permitted to print, copy, disclose or use part or all of the content in any way. Emails and any information transmitted thereunder may be intercepted, corrupted or delayed. As a result, SLR does not accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions howsoever caused and SLR accepts no responsibility for changes made to this email or any attachment after transmission from SLR. Whilst all reasonable endeavours are taken by SLR to screen all emails for known viruses, SLR cannot guarantee that any transmission will be virus free. Any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of SLR Management Ltd, or any of its subsidiaries, unless specifically stated. SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited and SLR Consulting (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited are both subsidiaries of SLR Management Ltd. Registered Office: Unit 7 Fourways Manor Office Park, Cnr Roos and Macbeth Street, Fourways, 2191, Gauteng, South Africa From: Alex Pheiffer Sent: 18 April 2016 02:09 PM To: Mariette Liefferink Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Mariette

Thank you for your email.

I have passed it on to Matthew. He will respond to you shortly.

Kind regards Alex

Alex Pheiffer African Environmental Management Operations Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 83 269 7545 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2036 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 12:20 PM To: Alex Pheiffer Subject: FW: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT 4 TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 11:52 AM To: 'Brandon Stobart' < [email protected] > Subject: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Brandon,

APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION WITH REGARDS AN EXPLORATION RIGHT FOR PETROLEUM ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE MAGISTERIAL DISTRICTS OF FRANKFORT, HARRISMITH, HEILBRON, KROONSTAD, LINDLEY, REITZ, SENEKAL, VENTERSBURG & VREDE IN THE FREE STATE, MPUMALANGA & GAUTENG PROVINCES (12/3/294 ER)

I trust you are well?

I have been forwarded the attached information and was requested to assist.

I am sensible to the fact that Matthew Henning is the appointed EAP, however, I was not successful in establishing contact with him. May I therefore encumber you with the following request?

I deduce from the attached documents that the time for comment has prescribed but that PASA allowed for a time extension for the scoping process. Since the final scoping report has to be submitted by the 20 th of April 2016 it will allow me inadequate time to peruse the BID and to offer meaningful and intelligent comments.

I infer from the attached document, however, that a revised draft scoping report will be made available and that 30 days will be allowed for comment. I am, however, uncertain whether my inference is correct since the final scoping report usually follows the draft and not vice versa.

I furthermore infer from the Update Letter that IAPs may request SLR for a copy of the Background Information Document. Is it possible that you can forward me the BID electronically? If not, may I please collect it from your offices? I am willing to cover the printing costs if it is a printed document.

Since the FSE was only now become aware of the application, please register the FSE as an IAP. We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available.

In anticipation, please accept my sincere thanks.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033

5 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

6 JC Pretorius

From: Judith Taylor Sent: 27 April 2016 08:56 AM To: Matthew Hemming Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Thank you Matthew, I am concerned that this project is being considered at all. The Free State is in the midst of a serious drought so there will be no water available. As has been proved over and over again, such projects do not bring economic value into the affected communities. Instead they render many members of the community destitute; destroy the environment and pollute both air and water.

From: Matthew Hemming [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 19 April 2016 16:21 To: Judith Taylor; 'Vaal Haven Properties' Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Hi Judith

I hereby confirm your registration as an IAP.

The attached letter is the most recent communication to registered IAPs.

Regards

From: Judith Taylor [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 19 April 2016 02:26 PM To: 'Vaal Haven Properties' Cc: Matthew Hemming Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Thanks Irene. Matthew please register me as an I&AP

From: Vaal Haven Properties [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 19 April 2016 13:16 To: Judith; Judith Taylor Subject: Fw: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear All

Please register as an Interested and Affected Party.

Please visit: ftp.slrconsulting.co.za .

Username: 1013151012. Password: wiutgf783e32. Navigate to the Folder called: REVISED Draft Scoping Report for the relevant documentation

Kind regards

Irene Main

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager

2 SLR Consulting

19 April 2016

Dear Sir

SAVE (vaaldam) has only now become aware of the application for the abovementioned matter. Please register SAVE (vaaldam) as an IAP.

We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available so that we can comment.

Please provide copies of the adverts that were placed in the relevant newspapers and in particular the adverts that were placed on the actual affected farms.

Unfortunately time is limited and we are not able to go through the mountain of paperwork in order to comment fully by tomorrow.

Kind regards

Irene Main

Mobile: 078 521 1676 Email: [email protected]

Dear Friends,

Please see subjoined response from SLR.

Please be so kind as to keep in contact regarding this application.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Good afternoon Mariette

Welcome to the FSE as an interested and affected party on the project. Please refer to my contact information in my email signature below.

You are however welcome to submit your comments on the application and/or Scoping Report and we will receive these for consideration in the EIA process.

Kind regards

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 82 940 8274 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

SLR Africa (Block 7) Fourways Manor Office Park Cnr Roos and Macbeth Streets Fourways, Johannesburg, 2060 South Africa

4 Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer This communication and any attachment(s) contains information which is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is i ntended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please email us by return mail and then delete the email from your system together with any copies of it. Please note that you are not permitted to print, copy, disclose or use part or all of the content in any way. Emails and any information transmitted thereunder may be intercepted, corrupted or delayed. As a result, SLR does not accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions howsoever caused and SLR accepts no responsibility for changes made to this email or any attachment after transmission from SLR. Whilst all reasonable endeavours are taken by SLR to screen all emails for known viruses, SLR cannot guarantee that any transmission will be virus free. Any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of SLR Management Ltd, or any of its subsidiaries, unless specifically stated. SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited and SLR Consulting (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited are both subsidiaries of SLR Management Ltd. Registered Office: Unit 7 Fourways Manor Office Park, Cnr Roos and Macbeth Street, Fourways, 2191, Gauteng, South Africa From: Alex Pheiffer Sent: 18 April 2016 02:09 PM To: Mariette Liefferink Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Mariette

Thank you for your email.

I have passed it on to Matthew. He will respond to you shortly.

Kind regards Alex

Alex Pheiffer African Environmental Management Operations Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 83 269 7545 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2036 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 12:20 PM To: Alex Pheiffer Subject: FW: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 11:52 AM

5 To: 'Brandon Stobart' < [email protected] > Subject: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Brandon,

I trust you are well?

I have been forwarded the attached information and was requested to assist.

I am sensible to the fact that Matthew Henning is the appointed EAP, however, I was not successful in establishing contact with him. May I therefore encumber you with the following request?

Since the FSE was only now become aware of the application, please register the FSE as an IAP. We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available.

In anticipation, please accept my sincere thanks.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

6 JC Pretorius

From: Koos Pretorius Sent: 22 April 2016 02:07 PM To: Matthew Hemming; 'Mariette Liefferink'; Alex Pheiffer Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Matthew

I understand the implications of the reconnaissance permit. That however does not negate the fact that, without knowing where the drilling will take place, it will be impossible to assess the impact. There can thus not be compliance with the EIA regulations. As example : App4(1)(b)Need and desirability – how will the impact of cumulative impacts be assessed 1(c) – ranking process based upon risk and impact assessment 1(d) site selection 1(f) – level of assessment –will it be in old maize field, Critical Biodiversity area , etc. 1(g) – measures to avoid and mitigate the impact. . 2(c) – the plan 2(d) – which listed activities will be triggered by each site?

I can go on and on.

As EAP you will have to certify that the process is compliant. How will you do that? If you certify it , then your ability to act as EAP comes into question since the application obviously does not comply ( no matter that the application has been accepted) . That can trigger applications in terms of reg 14 of the EIA regs. Also , I must point out, that the decisions you make as to the appropriate investigative tools ,etc. can be reviewable in terms of PAJA and the review will be against yourself, and not the authority. ( see PAJA - 'administrative action' means any decision taken, or any failure to take a decision, by- (b) a natural or juristic person, other than an organ of state, when exercising a public power or performing a public function in terms of an empowering provision

Regards

Koos Pretorius Box 201 Belfast 1100 Tel: (+27) 83 986 4400 Fax: (+27) 86 514 6085

IMPORTANT – THIS E-MAIL AND THE INFORMATION THAT IT CONTAINS MAY BE CONFIDENTIAL, LEGALLY PRIVILEGED AND PROTECTED BY LAW. ACCESS BY THE INTENDED RECIPIENT ONLY IS AUTHORISED.

If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately and do not disclose the content to any other pers on, save it for any purpose, or store or copy the information in any medium. Copyright to this e-mail and attachments cr eated by us belong to Koos Pretorius. Koos Pretorius does not represent, warrant and/or guarantee that the integrity of this communication has been maintained or that the communication is free of errors, virus, interception or interference.

From: Matthew Hemming [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 22 April 2016 13:30 To: Koos Pretorius; 'Mariette Liefferink'; Alex Pheiffer

1 Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Hi Koos

SLR’s involvement is in managing the Scoping and EIA process that is prescribed to inform the application for environmental authorisation, which is a requirement of the exploration right application process, made in this case by Rhino Oil and Gas.

I can confirm that: 1) Rhino Oil and Gas had previously held a technical co-operation permit over the area in terms of Section 77 of the MPRDA. 2) Rhino Oil and Gas made an application for an exploration right in terms of section 79 of the MPRDA, 3) The Petroleum Agency SA (PASA) accepted the application in terms section 79 (2), and 4) PASA notified Rhino Oil and Gas to undertake the actions as set out in section 79(4) a) and b).

A reconnaissance permit would not allow for the drilling of core holes as is included i n the exploration work programme submitted by Rhino Oil and Gas (detailed in Section 2.3 of the Scoping Report).

I also understand that reconnaissance permits are typically not used as they provides no security of tenure to the holder over the area of interest. This by virtue of the fact that none of Sections 76, 79 or 83 recognise reconnaissance permits.

Kind regards

From: Koos Pretorius [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 19 April 2016 09:28 PM To: Matthew Hemming; 'Mariette Liefferink'; Alex Pheiffer Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

The definition of exploration as per MPRDA is as follows:

"exploration operation " means the re-processing of existing seismic data, acquisition and processing of new seismic data or any other related activity to define a trap to be tested by drilling, logging and testing, including extended well testing, of a well with the intention of locating a discovery;

Drilling wells do not fall within this definition.

You are applying for the wrong type of activity:

"reconnaissance operation " means any operation carried out for or in connection with the search for a mineral or petroleum by geological, geophysical and photogeological surveys and includes any remote sensing techniques , but does not include any prospecting or exploration operation other that acquisition and processing of new seismic data;

Regards

Koos Pretorius Box 201 Belfast 1100 Tel: (+27) 83 986 4400 Fax: (+27) 86 514 6085

IMPORTANT – THIS E-MAIL AND THE INFORMATION THAT IT CONTAINS MAY BE CONFIDENTIAL, LEGALLY PRIVILEGED AND PROTECTED BY LAW. ACCESS BY THE INTENDED RECIPIENT ONLY IS AUTHORISED.

If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately and do not disclose the content to any other pers on, save it for any purpose, or store or copy the information in any medium. Copyright to this e-mail and attachments created by us belong to Koos Pretorius. Koos Pretorius does not represent, warrant and/or guarantee that the integrity of this communication has been maintained or that the communication is free of errors, virus, interception or interference.

From: Matthew Hemming [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 19 April 2016 17:09 To: Mariette Liefferink; Alex Pheiffer Cc: JC Pretorius; [email protected] Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Hi Mariette

You’re welcome.

Please refer to Section 5.2.2 of the Scoping Report and Appendix 5.2 for this information.

Sites for the field-based exploration have not been identified. Please refer to Section 5.1.1 of the Scoping Report and the respective paragraphs in Sections 2.3.5 and 2.3.6.

The determination of the financial provision in respect of this application will be made in the EIA in terms of the Financial Provisioning Regulations (GNR 1147 of 2015).

Kind regards

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 19 April 2016 09:40 AM To: Matthew Hemming; Alex Pheiffer; 'Mariette Liefferink' Cc: JC Pretorius; [email protected] Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Matthew

I thank you for your prompt response and information.

I shall regrettably not be in the position to peruse the documents and comment before tomorrow. However, I shall in the interim access the documents and prepare my comments for inclusion in the EIA report.

Notwithstanding, may I please request some information on the following:

1. Since the application covers a significant area, have all the landowners and occupiers of land been consulted? Is a list available? 2. In order for us to comment on the impacts, including the residual and latent impacts, have the sites where the holes will be drilled been identified? It will also assist with an assessment of the financial provision in terms of the attached Regulations.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033

3 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Good afternoon Mariette

Welcome to the FSE as an interested and affected party on the project. Please refer to my contact information in my email signature below.

You are however welcome to submit your comments on the application and/or Scoping Report and we will receive these for consideration in the EIA process.

Kind regards

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 82 940 8274 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

SLR Africa (Block 7) Fourways Manor Office Park Cnr Roos and Macbeth Streets Fourways, Johannesburg, 2060 South Africa

Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer This communication and any attachment( s) contains information which is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is intended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken 4 in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please email us by return mail and then delete the email from your system together with any copies of it. Please note that you are not permitted to print, copy, disclose or use part or all of the content in any way. Emails and any information transmitted thereunder may be intercepted, corrupted or delayed. As a result, SLR does not accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions howsoever caused and SLR accepts no responsibility for changes made to this email or any attachment after transmission from SLR. Whilst all reasonable endeavours are taken by SLR to screen all emails for known viruses, SLR cannot guarantee that any transmission will be virus free. Any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of SLR Management Ltd, or any of its subsidiaries, unless specifically stated. SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited and SLR Consulting (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited are both subsidiaries of SLR Management Ltd. Registered Office: Unit 7 Fourways Manor Office Park, Cnr Roos and Macbeth Street, Fourways, 2191, Gauteng, South Africa From: Alex Pheiffer Sent: 18 April 2016 02:09 PM To: Mariette Liefferink Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Mariette

Thank you for your email.

I have passed it on to Matthew. He will respond to you shortly.

Kind regards Alex

Alex Pheiffer African Environmental Management Operations Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 83 269 7545 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2036 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 12:20 PM To: Alex Pheiffer Subject: FW: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Dear Brandon,

APPLICATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION WITH REGARDS AN EXPLORATION RIGHT FOR PETROLEUM ON VARIOUS FARMS IN THE MAGISTERIAL

5 DISTRICTS OF FRANKFORT, HARRISMITH, HEILBRON, KROONSTAD, LINDLEY, REITZ, SENEKAL, VENTERSBURG & VREDE IN THE FREE STATE, MPUMALANGA & GAUTENG PROVINCES (12/3/294 ER)

I trust you are well?

I have been forwarded the attached information and was requested to assist.

I am sensible to the fact that Matthew Henning is the appointed EAP, however, I was not successful in establishing contact with him. May I therefore encumber you with the following request?

Since the FSE was only now become aware of the application, please register the FSE as an IAP. We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available.

In anticipation, please accept my sincere thanks.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

6 JC Pretorius

From: Matthew Hemming Sent: 18 April 2016 04:02 PM To: Alex Pheiffer; Mariette Liefferink Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER Attachments: 2016-03-07 Rhino_294 ER FS_Notice of 30 day Review of revised SR.pdf; 2016-01-22 Rhino FS 294 ER BIDv2_English.pdf; 2016-03-02_SLR Scoping Report_Rhino Free State 294ER compressed.pdf

Good afternoon Mariette

Welcome to the FSE as an interested and affected party on the project. Please refer to my contact information in my email signature below.

You are however welcome to submit your comments on the application and/or Scoping Repo rt and we will receive these for consideration in the EIA process.

Kind regards

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 82 940 8274 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Alex Pheiffer Sent: 18 April 2016 02:09 PM To: Mariette Liefferink Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Mariette

Thank you for your email.

I have passed it on to Matthew. He will respond to you shortly.

1 Kind regards Alex

Alex Pheiffer African Environmental Management Operations Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 83 269 7545 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2036 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 12:20 PM To: Alex Pheiffer Subject: FW: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Dear Brandon,

I trust you are well?

I have been forwarded the attached information and was requested to assist.

I am sensible to the fact that Matthew Henning is the appointed EAP, however, I was not successful in establishing contact with him. May I therefore encumber you with the following request?

2 I infer from the attached document, however, that a revised draft scoping report will be made available and that 30 days will be allowed for comment. I am, however, uncertain whether my inference is correct since the final scoping report usually follows the draft and not vice versa.

Since the FSE was only now become aware of the application, please register the FSE as an IAP. We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available.

In anticipation, please accept my sincere thanks.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

3 JC Pretorius

From: Mariette Liefferink Sent: 19 April 2016 09:40 AM To: Matthew Hemming; Alex Pheiffer; 'Mariette Liefferink' Cc: JC Pretorius; [email protected] Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER Attachments: Financial Provision Regulations 20 Nov 2015 (002).pdf

Dear Matthew

I thank you for your prompt response and information.

Notwithstanding, may I please request some information on the following:

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

From: Matthew Hemming [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 18 April 2016 04:02 PM To: Alex Pheiffer ; Mariette Liefferink Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Good afternoon Mariette

Welcome to the FSE as an interested and affected party on the project. Please refer to my contact information in my email signature below.

1 You are however welcome to submit your comme nts on the application and/or Scoping Report and we will receive these for consideration in the EIA process.

Kind regards

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 82 940 8274 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

SLR Africa (Block 7) Fourways Manor Office Park Cnr Roos and Macbeth Streets Fourways, Johannesburg, 2060 South Africa

Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer This communication and any attachment(s) contains information which is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is intended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please email us by return mail and then delete the email from your system together with any copies of it. Please note that you are not permitted to print, copy, disclose or use part or all of the content in any way. Emails and any information transmitted thereunder may be intercepted, corrupted or delayed. As a result, SLR does not accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions howsoever caused and SLR accepts no responsibility for changes made to this email or any attachment after transmission from SLR. Whilst all reasonable endeavours are taken by SLR to screen all emails for known viruses, SLR cannot guarantee that any transmission will be virus free. Any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of SLR Management Ltd, or any of its subsidiaries, unless specifically stated. SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited and SLR Consulting (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited are both subsidiaries of SLR Management Ltd. Registered Office: Unit 7 Fourways Manor Office Park, Cnr Roos and Macbeth Street, Fourways, 2191, Gauteng, South Africa From: Alex Pheiffer Sent: 18 April 2016 02:09 PM To: Mariette Liefferink Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Mariette

Thank you for your email.

I have passed it on to Matthew. He will respond to you shortly.

Kind regards Alex

Alex Pheiffer

2 African Environmental Management Operations Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 83 269 7545 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2036 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 12:20 PM To: Alex Pheiffer Subject: FW: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Dear Brandon,

I trust you are well?

I have been forwarded the attached information and was requested to assist.

I am sensible to the fact that Matthew Henning is the appointed EAP, however, I was not successful in establishing contact with him. May I therefore encumber you with the following request?

3 I furthermore infer from the Update Letter that IAPs may request SLR for a copy of the Background Information Document. Is it possible that you can forward me the BID electronically? If not, may I please collect it from your offices? I am willing to cover the printing costs if it is a printed document.

Since the FSE was only now become aware of the application, please register the FSE as an IAP. We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available.

In anticipation, please accept my sincere thanks.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

4 JC Pretorius

From: Matthew Hemming Sent: 28 April 2016 12:00 PM To: Mariette Liefferink; 'Koos Pretorius' Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Good morning Mariette

The comments cannot be included in the Comments and Response report in the Scoping Report as they were received after this document was concluded. However, the comments are received and will be included in the EIA process.

I also confirm that we will submit the comments from Dr Pretorius to PASA for review during their consideration of the Scoping Report.

Kind regards

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 82 940 8274 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Mariette Liefferink [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 25 April 2016 05:52 PM To: 'Koos Pretorius'; Matthew Hemming; Alex Pheiffer Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Matthew

May I kindly request that you include Dr. Pretorius’s comments in the comments and response report? Dr. Pretorius is a director of the Federation for a Sustainable Environment .

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

1 From: Koos Pretorius [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 22 April 2016 02:07 PM To: 'Matthew Hemming' < [email protected] >; 'Mariette Liefferink' < [email protected] >; 'Alex Pheiffer' < [email protected] > Cc: 'JC Pretorius' < [email protected] > Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Matthew

I can go on and on.

Regards

Koos Pretorius Box 201 Belfast 1100 Tel: (+27) 83 986 4400 Fax: (+27) 86 514 6085

IMPORTANT – THIS E-MAIL AND THE INFORMATION THAT IT CONTAINS MAY BE CONFIDENTIAL, LEGALLY PRIVILEGED AND PROTECTED BY LAW. ACCESS BY THE INTENDED RECIPIENT ONLY IS AUTHORISED.

If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately and do not disclose the content to any other person, save it for any purpose, or store or copy the information in any medium. Copyright to this e-mail and attachments created by us belong to Koos Pretorius. Koos Pretorius does not represent, warrant and/or gu arantee that the integrity of this communication has been maintained or that the communication is free of errors, virus, interception or interference.

From: Matthew Hemming [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 22 April 2016 13:30 To: Koos Pretorius; 'Mariette Liefferink'; Alex Pheiffer Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

2 Hi Koos

A reconnaissance permit would not allow for the drilling of core holes as is i ncluded in the exploration work programme submitted by Rhino Oil and Gas (detailed in Section 2.3 of the Scoping Report).

Kind regards

The definition of exploration as per MPRDA is as follows:

Drilling wells do not fall within this definition.

You are applying for the wrong type of activity:

Regards

Koos Pretorius Box 201 Belfast 1100 Tel: (+27) 83 986 4400 Fax: (+27) 86 514 6085

IMPORTANT – THIS E-MAIL AND THE INFORMATION THAT IT CONTAINS MAY BE CONFIDENTIAL, LEGALLY PRIVILEGED AND PROTECTED BY LAW. ACCESS BY THE INTENDED RECIPIENT ONLY IS AUTHORISED.

3 Pretorius. Koos Pretorius does not represent, warrant and/or guarantee that the integrity of this communication has been maintained or that the communication is free of errors, virus, interception or interference.

Hi Mariette

You’re welcome.

Please refer to Section 5.2.2 of the Scoping Report and Appendix 5.2 for this information.

Sites for the field-based exploration have not been identified. Please refer to Section 5.1.1 of the Scoping Report and the respective paragraphs in Sections 2.3.5 and 2.3.6.

The determination of the financial provision in respect of this application will be made in the EIA in terms of the Financial Provisioning Regulations (GNR 1147 of 2015).

Kind regards

Dear Matthew

I thank you for your prompt response and information.

Notwithstanding, may I please request some information on the following:

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Good afternoon Mariette

Welcome to the FSE as an interested and affected party on the project. Please refer to my contact information in my email signature below.

You are however welcome to submit your comments on the application and/or Scoping Report and we will receive these for consideration in the EIA process.

Kind regards

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 82 940 8274 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

SLR Africa (Block 7) Fourways Manor Office Park Cnr Roos and Macbeth Streets Fourways, Johannesburg, 2060 South Africa

Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer This communication and any attachment( s) contains information which is confidential and may also be legally privileged. It is intended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please email us by return mail and then delete the email from your system together with any copies of it. Please note that you are not permitted to print, copy, disclose or use part or all of the content in any way. Emails and any information transmitted thereunder may be intercepted, corrupted or delayed. As a result, SLR does not accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions howsoever caused and SLR accepts no responsibility for changes made to this email or any attachment after transmission from SLR. Whilst all reasonable endeavours are taken by SLR to screen all emails for known viruses, SLR cannot guarantee that any transmission will be virus free. 5 Any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of SLR Management Ltd, or any of its subsidiaries, unless specifically stated. SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited and SLR Consulting (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited are both subsidiaries of SLR Management Ltd. Registered Office: Unit 7 Fourways Manor Office Park, Cnr Roos and Macbeth Street, Fourways, 2191, Gauteng, South Africa From: Alex Pheiffer Sent: 18 April 2016 02:09 PM To: Mariette Liefferink Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Mariette

Thank you for your email.

I have passed it on to Matthew. He will respond to you shortly.

Kind regards Alex

Alex Pheiffer African Environmental Management Operations Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 83 269 7545 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2036 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 12:20 PM To: Alex Pheiffer Subject: FW: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Dear Brandon,

6 I trust you are well?

I have been forwarded the attached information and was requested to assist.

I am sensible to the fact that Matthew Henning is the appointed EAP, however, I was not successful in establishing contact with him. May I therefore encumber you with the following request?

Since the FSE was only now become aware of the application, please register the FSE as an IAP. We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available.

In anticipation, please accept my sincere thanks.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

7 JC Pretorius

From: Mariette Liefferink Sent: 28 April 2016 06:54 PM To: Matthew Hemming; 'Mariette Liefferink'; 'Koos Pretorius' Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Thank you Matthew. My request pertained to the Comments and Response Report of the EIA process and not to the Scoping Report since in an earlier e-mail you confirmed that the final Scoping Report was submitted to PASA. I apologise for the misunderstanding.

From: Matthew Hemming [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 28 April 2016 12:00 PM To: Mariette Liefferink ; 'Koos Pretorius' Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Good morning Mariette

I also confirm that we will submit the comments from Dr Pretorius to PASA for review during their consideration of the Scoping Report.

Kind regards

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 25 April 2016 05:52 PM To: 'Koos Pretorius'; Matthew Hemming; Alex Pheiffer Cc: JC Pretorius Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Matthew

May I kindly request that you include Dr. Pretorius’s comments in the comments and response report? Dr. Pretorius is a director of the Federation for a Sustainable Environment .

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Matthew

I can go on and on.

Regards

Koos Pretorius Box 201 Belfast 1100 Tel: (+27) 83 986 4400 Fax: (+27) 86 514 6085

IMPORTANT – THIS E-MAIL AND THE INFORMATION THAT IT CONTAINS MAY BE CONFIDENTIAL, LEGALLY PRIVILEGED AND PROTECTED BY LAW. ACCESS BY THE INTENDED RECIPIENT ONLY IS AUTHORISED.

If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately and do not disclose the content to any other pers on, save it for any purpose, or store or copy the information in any medium. Copyright to this e-mail and attachments created by us belong to Koos Pretorius. Koos Pretorius does not represent, warrant and/or guarantee that the integrity of this communication has been maintained or that the communication is free of errors, virus, interception or interference.

2 Hi Koos

A reconnaissance permit would not allow for the drilli ng of core holes as is included in the exploration work programme submitted by Rhino Oil and Gas (detailed in Section 2.3 of the Scoping Report).

Kind regards

The definition of exploration as per MPRDA is as follows:

Drilling wells do not fall within this definition.

You are applying for the wrong type of activity:

Regards

Koos Pretorius Box 201 Belfast 1100 Tel: (+27) 83 986 4400 Fax: (+27) 86 514 6085

IMPORTANT – THIS E-MAIL AND THE INFORMATION THAT IT CONTAINS MAY BE CONFIDENTIAL, LEGALLY PRIVILEGED AND PROTECTED BY LAW. ACCESS BY THE INTENDED RECIPIENT ONLY IS AUTHORISED.

Hi Mariette

You’re welcome.

Please refer to Section 5.2.2 of the Scoping Report and Appendix 5.2 for this information.

Sites for the field-based exploration have not been identified. Please refer to Section 5.1.1 of the Scoping Report and the respective paragraphs in Sections 2.3.5 and 2.3.6.

The determination of the financial provision in respect of this application will be made in the EIA in terms of the Financial Provisioning Regulations (GNR 1147 of 2015).

Kind regards

Dear Matthew

I thank you for your prompt response and information.

Notwithstanding, may I please request some information on the following:

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Good afternoon Mariette

Welcome to the FSE as an interested and affected party on the project. Please refer to my contact information in my email signature below.

It is correct that final Scoping Report for th e project is due to PASA this week and thus the period for public comment has closed. It is in fact the revised Scoping Report that is due to PASA, the time extension for the scoping having already occurred in the period January to April 2016. Please refer to the attached letter.

You are however welcome to submit your comments on the application and/or Scoping Report and we will receive these for consideration in the EIA process.

Kind regards

Matthew Hemming African ESIA Technical Discipline Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 82 940 8274 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

SLR Africa (Block 7) Fourways Manor Office Park Cnr Roos and Macbeth Streets Fourways, Johannesburg, 2060 South Africa

Confidentiality Notice and Disclaimer This communication and any attachment(s) contains information which is confidential and may also be legally priv ileged. It is intended for the exclusive use of the recipient(s) to whom it is addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it, is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please email us by return mail and then delete the email from your system together with any copies of it. Please note that you are not permitted to print, copy, disclose or use part or all of the content in any way. Emails and any information transmitted thereunder may be intercepted, corrupted or delayed. As a result, SLR does not accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions howsoever caused and SLR accepts no responsibility for changes made to this email or any attachment after transmission from SLR. Whilst all reasonable endeavours are taken by SLR to screen all emails for known viruses, SLR cannot guarantee that any transmission will be virus free. 5 Any views or opinions are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of SLR Management Ltd, or any of its subsidiaries, unless specifically stated. SLR Consulting (South Africa) (Proprietary) Limited and SLR Consulting (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited are both subsidiaries of SLR Management Ltd. Registered Office: Unit 7 Fourways Manor Office Park, Cnr Roos and Macbeth Street, Fourways, 2191, Gauteng, South Africa From: Alex Pheiffer Sent: 18 April 2016 02:09 PM To: Mariette Liefferink Subject: RE: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Dear Mariette

Thank you for your email.

I have passed it on to Matthew. He will respond to you shortly.

Kind regards Alex

Alex Pheiffer African Environmental Management Operations Manager SLR Consulting

Email: [email protected] Mobile: +27 83 269 7545 Tel: +27 11 467 0945 Ext: 2036 Fax: +27 11 467 0978

From: Mariette Liefferink [ mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: 18 April 2016 12:20 PM To: Alex Pheiffer Subject: FW: Project Reference: 723.18034.00003 File Ref. Rhino Free State 294 ER

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]

Dear Brandon,

6 I trust you are well?

I have been forwarded the attached information and was requested to assist.

I am sensible to the fact that Matthew Henning is the appointed EAP, however, I was not successful in establishing contact with him. May I therefore encumber you with the following request?

Since the FSE was only now become aware of the application, please register the FSE as an IAP. We shall appreciate a copy of the revised draft scoping report when it becomes available.

In anticipation, please accept my sincere thanks.

Best Regards

Mariette Liefferink CEO: FEDERATION FOR A SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT TEL: (+27) 11 465 6910 (+27) 73 231 4893 Postnet Suite 87 Private Bag X033 RIVONIA 2128 E-MAIL: [email protected]