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Glenugie
resident George Oxenbridge concerned over workers clearing land on
property at Glenugie in preparation for gas exploration. Photo: Adam
Hourigan / The Daily Examiner Adam Hourigan
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UPDATE
CHANTING 'our land, our water, our future, no coal seam gas,' about 50
people gathered this morning to blockade the main access point to
Metgasco's latest exploratory mine site, located on the Avenue, Lavadia
east of Grafton Airport.
Neighbours say while they were aware of Metgasco's intentions for the
site, they claim there has been very little community consultation from
the mining company or from the government, and were surprised to
discover work had commenced yesterday afternoon.
As word spread, the community came together on site to protest the
arrival of Metgasco and were joined by anti-CSG protestors from across
the region.
Expecting to see further work on the site today and over coming weeks,
protestors say they'll be camping out for as long as it takes with the
hope of preventing any further work from being undertaken.
Protestors say they fear what is likely to be devastating affects on their community and the environment.
The Daily Examiner has spoken with a representative of Metgasco and we will bring you their comments later in the day.
9:55AM
CLARENCE Valley Against Coal Seam Gas has called a "code red" and is
urging people to come to the Pillar Valley/Glenugie area where Metgasco
has started work.
A Facebook post was sent out last night saying:
"CODE RED: Pillar Valley/Glenugie.
"Bring food and water, your friends and neighbours, your pet raptors.
Metgasco have started at the Avenue (Golden Mile Lane). Drill pad
prepared and infrastructure being set up.
"This the headwaters of the Coldstream River, home to families who
respect and value a healthy the environment and love life and their
families.
"We need your support now.
"IT STOPS HERE. NO CSG FOR THE CLARENCE VALLEY. FRACK OFF METGASCO, ERM AND LNG CHINA."
Daily Examiner staff are on their way to the site now and we will have updates shortly.
Meanwhile send any information, photos or video to us at
newsroom@dailyexaminer.com.au.
Images @ Melonpopzdropz Flickr
