Experts and Community Forum
Almost all of the Scenic Rim region is now subject to new Coal or Coal Seam Gas exploration licences with either Lodestone, Arrow Energy or Carabella Resources. The Queensland Government is promoting a massive expansion of coal mining across Queensland and the development of a new export industry based upon coal seam gas. Coal and Coal Seam Gas mining are not only impacting on the environment but also on human and community health. Chemicals released as particulates or vapours from the processes, or used in extraction such as the fraccing chemicals have the potential to release toxins into the environment and cause a range of illnesses from asthma to cancer. The tensions in the community, differences in life style of the “locals” and the workers in these industries, as well as the loss of agricultural and even town land to mining can lead to mental health problems and violence. Ecologically sustainable development should consider the economic, environmental and social implications of a development and if we have insufficient information adopt the precautionary principle. This forum aims to explore these implications with a focus upon the human health impacts.
- Drew Hutton - Lock the Gate Campaign Alliance - will present the broad picture of coal and coal seam gas development in Queensland
- Dr Dick van Steenis - Public Health Advocate from the United Kingdom - will talk about the impacts of open-cut coal-mining and coal-fired power stations on human health.
- Dr Sandra Bayley - Doctors for Science, Sustainability and Social Justice - will talk about the impacts of coal-seam gas water contaminants and the impacts on human health.
- Innes Larkin or Bill Parke - Keep Scenic Rim Scenic - will talk about the campaign to "Keep the Scenic Rim Scenic"
- Q & A Discussion
When: Friday March 18 from 6.15 pm for a 6.30pm start.
Where: Meeting Room - Centacare St Mary's, Petersen Street, Beaudesert.
Info: Light Supper & Gold coin entry.
RSVP: Debbie 5541-3426 or
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