GRAFTON NANNAS WELCOME METGASCO DEPARTURE
MEDIA RELEASE
The Grafton Loop of the Knitting Nannas Against Gas has welcomed the Metgasco shareholders’ decision to accept the NSW Government’s $25 million offer to buy back the remaining Petroleum Exploration Licences (PELs) in the Northern Rivers region – PELs 13, 16 and 426. The successful campaign to make the Northern Rivers gasfield free has been due to the determination of thousands of local community members over more than five years. “Determination was necessary because it took an immense effort to convince our local politicians and the Government that this invasive industry was not wanted here. But the message finally got through,” said Grafton Nanna Lynette Eggins.
“This is a win for people power – not politicians. The Grafton Nannas are delighted that they can now cast off PEL 426, the PEL which covers a large part of the Clarence LGA.” The Grafton Nannas, formed in October 2012 during the Glenugie campaign, will be putting away their knitting needles and crochet hooks for a rest – after their celebration. “The Nannas will still be around and will be watching. Any move to re-issue Petroleum Exploration Licences in our region will be met with Nanna action. And we will be looking at ways of helping other communities affected by inappropriate mining development,” Ms Eggins concluded.