Dan Cregan’s push to protect high value agricultural land from mining applications has been shut down by both sides of state politics.
The Member for Kavel, alongside Independent Fraser Ellis, tabled a Bill which would have sought more protections for high value aquifers in the wake of Terramin’s lengthy bid to mine in Woodside.
Cregan says while the bid was ultimately rejected by Mining Minister Tom Koutsantonis, future governments will be able to reverse the decision if legislation isn’t in place.
“We need to continue to protect high value fractured rock aquifers in the Hills. These aquifers supply iconic State industries including wine grapes, apples, pears, cherries and general agriculture. The current drought proves how precious this resource is,” Cregan said.
“Despite the recent decision by the Mining Minister to reject an application to blast through the fractured rock aquifers in Woodside, a future government or Minister could easily change course. That is why this legislation is so important.”
