Landholders in Far West NSW opposed to the NSW State Government’s proposal to survey for natural gas in their area are breathing a sigh of relief after the Government announced last Wednesday that the proposal won’t be going ahead.
The NSW Government’s Future of Gas Statement, released last week by deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Re-sources John Barilaro, commits to reducing the land available for gas exploration across the state by 77 per cent, significantly reducing areas permitted for potential gas exploration in Western NSW.
Mr Barilaro said the NSW Government had heard the concerns of communities, including those of the Yathong-Ivanhoe Neckarboo Aquifer Alliance (YINAA) group which fought to prevent the exploration in their area.
YINAA Communications & Social Media officer Sarah Groat said a huge weight has been lifted off their shoulders.
“Community members were gearing up for a fight that could last up to 20 years or more – to have it all over within seven months is incredible, and a true testament to just how strong the Far West communities are,” Ms Groat said.
“There is no doubt that this is a win for everyone in the Far West, as all groups united and spoke with one voice for the government to not frack the Far West – and the government listened.”
Landholders in Far West NSW opposed to the NSW State Government’s proposal to survey for natural gas in their area are breathing a sigh of relief after the Government announced last Wednesday that the proposal won’t be going ahead.
The NSW Government’s Future of Gas Statement, released last week by deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Re-sources John Barilaro, commits to reducing the land available for gas exploration across the state by 77 per cent, significantly reducing areas permitted for potential gas exploration in Western NSW.
Mr Barilaro said the NSW Government had heard the concerns of communities, including those of the Yathong-Ivanhoe Neckarboo Aquifer Alliance (YINAA) group which fought to prevent the exploration in their area.
YINAA Communications & Social Media officer Sarah Groat said a huge weight has been lifted off their shoulders.
“Community members were gearing up for a fight that could last up to 20 years or more – to have it all over within seven months is incredible, and a true testament to just how strong the Far West communities are,” Ms Groat said.
“There is no doubt that this is a win for everyone in the Far West, as all groups united and spoke with one voice for the government to not frack the Far West – and the government listened.”
