VFF to host mining and coal seam gas forums for farmers

THE Victorian Farmers’ Federation (VFF) will host forums in Sale tomorrow and Wonthaggi next Thursday to answer producers’ questions about mining and coal seam gas (CSG).

The forums are designed specifically for farmers, and will cover topics including farmers’ rights during mining exploration and development, and the VFF’s mining policy and proposed changes to minerals legislation.

Representatives from the Department of Primary Industries will also be on hand to outline the regulation of the mining industry and CSG exploration in Victoria and to provide an update on current exploration and mining activities taking place in Gippsland.

“The aim of the forums is to make sure farmers know their rights when dealing with mining activities on their land or in their community,” VFF Land Management Committee Chair Gerald Leach said.

“We also want to make sure they understand regulation of the mining industry and have up-to-date and correct information on mining and coal seam gas activity in their area.”

Mr Leach said he was also keen to hear about the concerns of individual farmers.

“The VFF exists to serve its members and make sure they have the strongest rights possible when it comes to how they manage their land.

“If you’re a farmer with questions or concerns about mining or coal seam gas activity, please come along and let us know,” Mr Leach said.

Both Sale’s and Wonthaggi’s VFF events will precede the open-house community consultation on mining and coal seam gas being run by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) as drop-in sessions from 2pm to 7pm on the same day. The DPI sessions will be held at All Seasons Sale tomorrow (Thursday August 9) and at the Wonthaggi Workman’s Club next Thursday.

The VFF forums, which are free for VFF members and $10 for non-members, will be held from 10am to midday on Thursday August 9 at the Sale Greyhound Club, Sale Showgrounds and from 10am to midday on Thursday August 16 at Wonthaggi Town Hall. A copy of VFF’s mining policy and mining fact sheets will be made available.

RSVP to Jacob McElwee at email [email protected]

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See also: Farmers demand power of veto on mining

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