OPPONENTS of Shenhua's Watermark Coal Mine are hopeful comments made by NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro reflect a shift in the government's support for the project.
The Caroona Coal Action Group were given renewed hope of a change of heart after the NSW Nationals leader commented on the controversial project at a press conference on Tuesday.
"The environment itself in relation to mining has changed a little bit," Mr Barilaro told reporters on Tuesday.
"Investment in China has changed a little bit, so we're having some negotiations to see what the future of that particular mining lease looks like.
"They've [Shenhua] got an extension for a few months, in relation to paying their first installment."
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Nea farmer and Caroona Coal Action group president Susan Lyle said she "didn't know what to make" of the Deputy Premier's comments, but was hopeful the government was changing its view on the mine.
"I found it very interesting to hear and it hopefully might lead to a positive outcome for us," Mrs Lyle told The Land.
"We've been pushing for this project to be scrapped ever since it was first approved in 2008.
"I think the government might be copping a fair bit of flak on this one and I think that may be why they are reconsidering, if in fact they are reconsidering.
"As far as I know, not much has changed in terms of the government's view on the project but we'd be really pleased if they were thinking about pulling out."
Its success hinges on the approval of three environmental plans, which include water, rehabilitation and koala management plans.
The water and rehabilitation plans also have to get signed off by the federal government.
If approved, the project is expected to deliver more than $1 billion to the Australian economy annually, as well as 600 jobs during construction and 450 operational jobs.
"We outlined the four key reasons why this project really shouldn't go ahead," Mrs Lyle said.
"The first is the independent scientific research we've had conducted which shows the damage it would cause to the environment.
"Secondly is the impacts on sites of Indigenous cultural significance and the third is the bipartisan report on the impact it would have on the local koala population.
"Lastly is the ongoing trade tensions between Australia and China and with that all in mind, I think the government may be really starting to question its support for this project."
The Land contacted Shenhua for comment.
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Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
