Gemma Norman writes:
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I am compelled to respond to the article “It’s our lifeblood” in the NVI regarding mining on the Liverpool Plains.
It is acknowledged that Gunnedah has seen a resurgence of mining in the area, but some areas should not be mined and the Liverpool Plain is one such area. The risk is just too great!
The overwhelming scientific evidence that you have cited in your article I would suggest is in conflict with independent studies that warn of irreversible damage to our aquifers (water being our most precious resource). Water is the true “lifeblood”, without it we cease to exist.
It is well noted that coal mining is on the decline as exports of coal and iron ore to China are down by 30 per cent and not looking to improve any time soon.
Australian agriculture has a bright future. It seems outrageous to risk our most productive farming land for an industry that is on the decline.
Businesses in Gunnedah have reaped the benefits of mining in the area during the construction phases, but there is no evidence to this in the operational phases of the mine.
Also, the results of the recent survey conducted by the Chamber of Commerce are hardly a ringing endorsement for expanded mining activity.
In the survey, 67.5 per cent of businesses surveyed were in favour of increased mining which must be taken into context with the fact that 75 per cent of businesses considered their business would be positively impacted by an increase in mining.
In other words, 7.5 per cent of businesses surveyed thought their business would be boosted by the increase in mining but they were not in favour of the increase in mining in the area. This discrepancy is because people do not want to put short-term financial gain ahead of long term district economic viability.
Shenhua has contributed financially to the town, due to the obligations they are bound by as part of the exploration licence agreement. Once the full licence is granted that obligation ceases.
Many believe the majority of workers employed by Shenhua will be FIFO (fly in, fly out). The MAC village in Werris Creek, has been designed to house 1500 workers. Obviously this would cater well for Shenhua, BHP Caroona and Werris Creek mines. There is little benefit to local businesses once that happens.
A prime example of this is the MAC village in Narrabri. The only financial contribution made to the town is the purchase of bread which they were forced to do.
You talk of a “ghost town”. What do you think will happen to Gunnedah once mining ceases and the productive farming land of the Liverpool Plain has been desecrated?
This was evident in the dramatic downturn which Gunnedah experienced with the closure of the mine and abattoir. Unfortunately, the state was in the grips of a drought but the farmers took up the slack as much as possible, and kept the town going.
It is ridiculously unrealistic to think that the town would not suffer with two major industries closing simultaneously.
It is audacious to call the farmers “selfish” when they are fighting for their survival. Farmers have supported your businesses throughout good times and bad.
The “selfish” label may lie squarely at the feet of those who made this statement.
Lastly, I agree there should be more tolerance, understanding and balance. I strongly suggest there should be some consultation between the farming community and the business houses. This would be a good place to start.