A united stance from advocacy groups including Cooran Earth Rights, Noosa Councillors and the community was the impetus behind the State Government decision not to renew a mining exploration permit that encroached on the northern part of Noosa Shire.
Noosa MP Sandy Bolton said it was this clear message she delivered to Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Minister Anthony Lynham who “not only listened to the rationale put forward regarding the negative impacts to our environment, iconic tourism status and economy, but also how it would create even further hardships in terms of loss of future opportunities in diversifying our economy”.
“The collective voice is very powerful, and this has been a prime example of how good, knowledgeable advocacy without the ‘soap boxing’ or ‘fear mongering’, can deliver the outcomes that Noosa seeks for its future,” she said.
Last year Council unanimously adopted a position opposing coal and coal seam gas exploration and mining in the Shire.
Mayor Tony Wellington wrote to Minister Lynham to ask that the State consider Council’s position when assessing any request to extend the EPBC2556 mining exploration permit.
“Coal exploration, coal mining, coal seam gas exploration and coal seam gas production are not compatible with Noosa’s natural environment and lifestyle,” Cr Wellington said. “Such activities are also in conflict with Noosa Shire’s designation as a Priority Living Area under the Regional Planning Interests Act.”
