Local farmers have water issues

Farmer Wally Buckman has lived in Lynchs Creek for all his 74 years, seeing many changes to industries and the landscape.

He and his wife Jan are concerned about the possible effects of coal seam gas mining but are pleased Kyogle Council voted unanimously to write to the NSW Government asking for a moratorium.

“It’s important to us that you look after the water,” Wally said. “Once it’s gone, there’s nothing you can do,” Jan adds, the couple finishing each other’s sentences in that easy familiarity of long-time partners.

They have never seen Lynchs Creek run dry.

“Lynchs Creek and Bradys are important creeks that feed the Richmond River in dry times. If they do anything to the water up here, the whole of the Richmond River right through to Ballina will be affected,” Wally said.

The Buckmans were first alerted to CSG mining approvals by fellow Lynchs Creek resident Leah Hobbs.

They have had no direct communication from Metgasco, despite plans for the proposed gas pipeline being 500m from their property. They are concerned that many residents are unaware of the proposals for multiple well heads and the pipeline.

“I don’t think it’s been advertised or pushed enough. People aren’t aware what drilling can do to the water,” Wally said.

“Without water we’ve got nothing,” Jan added. “It’s the future for generations to come, it’s not us, future generations will need water.”