More than 100 people from are expected to gather to tackle what they see as threats posed by extractive industries at a free public forum at the Mackay Convention and Entertainment Centre this Sunday.
Organised by Farmers for Climate Action, the forum will explore alternate opportunities for the region and premiere new short film Galilee Rising, featuring the group’s campaign against extractive industries like Adani’s Carmichael Mine.
Speakers at the forum include central Queensland graziers Mick Alexander and Jody Brown, Farmers for Climate Action CEO, Verity Morgan Schmidt, and leading central Queensland renewable energy project leaders.
Mr Alexander, who appeared in an FCA advertising campaign this month, that included a billboard at Sydney and Victoria Streets Mackay, said he was participating in the forum to call for a cancellation of Adani’s unlimited groundwater licence.
“We welcome the federal government’s new funding for water infrastructure, but it remains ridiculous that during the present drought conditions Adani coal can be granted an unlimited water licence for 60 years,” he said.
“For us farmers every drop of water is precious out here. If we lose our water than we lose agriculture forever. It’s time for all of us to demand leaders with a vision to strengthen our region and move beyond thermal coal.
“Our region needs a transition plan to diversify the economy, benefit from the renewables boom and drive increased investment and innovation while addressing the threats of climate change.”
According to FCA coordinator, Michael Kane, the forum will be a platform for farmers fighting extractive industries, and for clean energy project leaders.
“On Sunday we will send a clear message to government that central Queenslanders want a roadmap away from a coal economy and the path to dangerous climate change to a diversified economy and low carbon future”.
“Our farming and regional communities are rising up and saying yes to sustainable agriculture, yes to clean energy and yes to the long term resilience of our region.”
The Galilee is Rising community forum and film premiere is on from 1-3pm this Sunday, November 25 at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.