seismic testing

Let's start by saying how crazy it is to try and stop a legal non-invasive activity. Seismic testing was done a few months ago in the heart of Lismore with no concerns. The whole purpose is to gather data, this data although paid for by MEL is also passed onto the CSIRO and government departments to help them better understand the geology in the area including mapping out aquifers.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-10-27/csg-changes/6889806

Lismore Council's plans to stop Metgasco from using their roads for seismic testing are in jeopardy

Lismore City Council says the New South Wales Government continues to erode the rights of people who oppose Coal Seam Gas mining by making recent changes to a Petroleum Act.

The Council's Deputy Mayor, Simon Clough, says changes to the 72 Petroleum (Onshore) Act were rushed through both houses of State Parliament last week.

Councillor Clough says it removes any protection of seismic testing within 200 metres of a dwelling or 50 metres of a garden or orchard.

He says it also damages the Council's chances of trying to stop Metgasco from using council-owned roads for any testing activity near Bentley.

Earlier this month, Lismore City Council voted 5-2 to refuse the gas company access to council-owned or operated land.

The urgency motion was proposed by Deputy Mayor Clough, who said it reflected community opposition to the C-S-G industry.

The move sparked an angry response from Metgasco.

But Councillor Clough says changes to the Act will now jeopardise the Council's chances of stopping the company.

He says the New South Wales Government continues to support mining companies at the expense of communities.

"Now that means Metgasco can just give only 21 days notice to the public and that is all they need to go ahead and do seismic testing," said Councillor Clough.

"Any minimal protection available to private landholders is now gone and it is an insult to democracy,".