Wide Bay Burnett communities welcome the release today of a documentary highlighting the devastating impacts of mining in the region.
The documentary, by Brisbane film-maker Mark Doyle and called Open for Business, includes interviews with residents and farmers describing their battle to keep their lifestyle, farmland and clean water and air.
Coal Free Wide Bay Burnett spokesperson, Vicki Perrin said the release was “timely” given the coming State Election.
“We are battling to keep our communities free of coal and gas mining because it threatens our lifestyle and livelihoods,” Ms Perrin said.
“The election gives us the opportunity to tell politicians that we demand the right to foodlands, clean water and air, and peace and quiet in our homes.”
She said the communities of Avondale and Winfield were concerned that the LNP had taken away people’s objection rights and allowed high-value farmland to be mined.
The group has invited all candidates from the Burnett, Bundaberg and Callide electorates to attend a Pre-Election Community Forum at Tegege Hall on Wednesday, January 21at 6:30pm.
Candidates will be asked if they agree with the People's Common Rights and Provisions Bill 2014 (the People’s Bill) that aims to give Queenslanders:
- The right to say “no” to mining
- The right to our health, livelihoods and the quiet enjoyment of our homes
- The right to be represented in parliament
- The right to our common heritage - the land, water and clean air
- The right to object and have our objections heard
- The right to clean politics
The documentary is available for viewing here:
WBB group will screen it at its next meeting.