Leader of the action group, Karl Bayer addressed the meeting to field any questions from councillors and highlight some of the community’s concerns about the drilling process.

“We currently have 147 members and that continues to grow,” Mr Bayer said.

“We’re asking Greater Taree City Council to be proactive in supporting us.”

The Manning Clean Water Action Group (MCWAG) has held a number of community information nights about coal seam gas mining and the possible impacts on wildlife and our waterways.

Mr Bayer also brought to the councillor’s attention, actions taken by several other local governments who have entered into moratoriums and are asking the NSW Government to halt drilling while the process is further investigated.

Councillor Keegan was unanimously supported by his fellow councillors in moving a motion to accept the report from Mr Bayer about the stance of other councils on the Mid North Coast.

It was agreed that a councillor workshop should now be held to discuss the ecological, social and economic impact on the Manning Valley and its catchment, from potential coal seam gas mining, and as a result of the workshop, council will then formulate a policy position on coal seam gas mining which will be brought back to a later council meeting.

“We would also like to note the significant community concerns for the issue,” Cr Keegan said.

Mr Bayer and fellow MCWAG member Greg Smith also conducted a coal seam gas information session at the Wingham Rotary Club meeting last week.

More than 40 people filed into the Wingham Bowling Club for the community meeting.

Mr Bayer and Mr Smith showed a short film on the development of coal seam gas mines in south-east Queensland.

They also fielded questions and discussed opinions presented by audience members.

“We are not telling people what to believe,” Mr Bayer said.

“We merely want to display the facts and figures and encourage people to research the issue further themselves.”

A coal seam gas information session at the Wherrol Flat Hall last Thursday night also drew a large crowd.

More than 70 local residents reportedly turned out to voice their opinions.