Ann: Metgasco to commence court action and field activities, page-11

In the SMH today...

Metgasco has spent $120 million on its north coast gas licences over the past decade. About $80 million of that was capitalised, indicating a settlement figure the company might accept.
But on Tuesday, Metgasco informed the stock market that "negotiations with the NSW Government have not resulted in a settlement of the matters between Metgasco and the government".
Metgasco said it had "accordingly paused formal discussions with the government over the future of Metgasco's three Northern Rivers licence areas".
The company would now "initiate court action for damages" over the unlawful suspension of its Bentley drilling program and apply to start drilling at the site.
Metgasco managing director Peter Henderson said the company expected the government "will provide all necessary police protection to allow the lawful activities to be undertaken safely and securely".
He said the company was "given assurances in this respect as part of our discussions with government".
"Metgasco would have preferred to settle its claim for 2014 suspension damages with the New South Wales government out of court and is happy to resume good-faith discussions with government in this respect, but not at the expense of having to indefinitely suspend its business activities," he said.
Mr Roberts said the government "notes today's announcement by Metgasco".

"The company stated it is 'happy to resume good-faith discussions with the Government'," he said.
"The Government also remains ready to continue negotiations in good faith with Metgasco."

Seems to me they are just giving each other a bit of biff.
Should come out in MEL's favour.​