In 1979 Northern Rivers communities took on the NSW Government and forestry industry interests at Terania Creek in sustained direct action. The end result was cessation of logging in the disputed area and the later creation of the Nightcap National Park incorporating Mount Nadi, Griers Scrub and Terania Creek.
In 1997 Northern Rivers communities again took on the NSW Government, local government and mining interests by direct action and through the courts. The end result was the closure and rehabilitation of the Timbarra gold mine site.
In 2006 Northern Rivers communities opposed the Federal Coalition Government and inland irrigators over the proposal to dam and divert Clarence River catchment water. The end result was bi-partisan support of the home-grown Not A Drop campaign by both Labor and the Coalition during the 2007 federal election campaign.
In 2013 Northern Rivers communities are continuing to oppose the NSW Coalition Government, elements within the Federal Labor Party and Metgasgo Limited over plans to create gas fields crisscrossing rural lots, improved pastures and agricultural land.
That these communities are again in for the long haul is rather prosaically demonstrated by these preparations at Doubtful Creek.
If the O’Farrell Government and Metgasgo think opposition from local communities will just fade away over time, they are likely to be disappointed.
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