One could only feel sympathy for Ian and Robyn Moore as they left the Land and Environment Court on Tuesday knowing three exploration holes could now be drilled on their property. They had fought Doyles Creek Mine through the legal system and lost their case (see page 1).
The Moores are law abiding citizens, quiet, country folk who would much prefer to stick to themselves.
The media spotlight on them this week was uncomfortable but Ian recognises his plight has attracted great interest and any support he can muster might just help their situation.
While there will be clashes over the environmental impacts of mining and the social impacts of 12-hour shifts, one issue that will never be addressed is this loss of sense of place.
Sense of place is not an easy thing to describe, it is not something you can acquire, but it lies deep in your heart and nothing can compensate for this loss.
The Moore’s sense of place with their Apple Tree Flat farm is as genuine as it can get.
The Moore’s story has touched many hearts across the nation, may they find some comfort in knowing they are not alone.
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