Last Wednesday former coal miner Wayne Riley expected to present a video he had made to the Independent Planning Commission (IPC).
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But at the last minute the IPC meeting, reviewing the United Wambo open cut project, was cancelled.
The cancellation of the meeting, which was to be held in Singleton, angered the speakers and groups who had prepared their material and made the effort to be in town for the event.
The IPC said the Commissioner Geoff Sharrock who was appointed at the last minute to replace another Commissioner, had a ‘conflict of interest’ which precluded him from considering the United Wambo project.
The mine is located 6km west of Singleton and is a joint venture between Peabody and Glencore with Glencore to manage the operations.
Unhappy with the meeting being cancelled until February 2019 Mr Riley has decided to share his video now because he is so concerned about the continuing approval of expansion plans for existing open cut mines.
The Bulga resident argues mining must immediately go underground to protect the environment and people’s health particular those living within a few kilometres of these super pits.
“Open Cut mining is dangerous for the health of people and the environment cannot sustain this reckless form of mining. The Upper Hunter Valley has a very bleak future if we don't make a stand today.,” he said.
“Tell your councillors, state and federal members enough is enough. Peoples health and wellbeing and the wellbeing of every living creature is more important than NSW Government coffers, Mine owner's shares or money.”
“Stop putting profits before people. There are safer, viable alternatives that can be utilised almost immediately, with substantially less risk to the men, women and children who work live and play in this beautiful country of Australia, while at the same time boost rural economies and can co-exist with the environment and all kinds of rural businesses and pursuits.
“This is the time for change , to give us hope, that we can protect our homes, where ever we live for all future generations.”