finally some sanity

This report is from today's edition of the South Burnett Times - 30th July 2010.

MAN ASKS PEOPLE TO CALM DOWN ABOUT COUGAR


In the opinion of Rob Burgess, the community's reaction to underground coal gasification (UCG) needs to be calmed.

He grew up in Kingaroy and said he understands the anger farmers are directing toward mining companies in the wake of the Cougar Energy contamination scare. But Mr Burgess is worried media attention is giving the town a negative image and will drive away development and mining companies.

He is a land developer and has invested significantly in Kingaroy but said he's worried people will now refrain from putting money into the town.

"It can't become a town that is in the too hard basket for development." Mr Burgess said.

"If the (UCG) project is safe, then let it progress so that we will continue to be a key energy provider to south east Queensland. If it is proven to be unsafe, then let us look for new ways to use the abundant wealth locked in and beneath the soil in the South Burnett."

Mr Burgess said the fury landowners and farmers are directing at mining companies was understandable but needed to be controlled.

"I think we'll find it's a storm in a tea cup," he said.

"As we consider the development of Cougar, as a community, I would appeal for reason and calm. This is the time for a rational and cool headed approach."

ENDS