Groups invited to attend included Barrington-Gloucester-Stroud Preservation Alliance, United Myall Residents Against Gas Extraction, Manning Clean Water Action Group and Camden Haven Anti-Fracking Group.

The agenda included discussions on Project Blue, the forthcoming Upper House inquiry into coal seam gas in Taree next Monday, the establishment of a regional CSG council and future campaigns.

Chairman of the Manning Alliance Peter Epov said it was encouraging to have representatives of all anti-CSG groups in the region at the meeting.

“A number have already been co-operating with us on Project Blue and through this exchange we have started to develop strong relationships,” he said.

“It is quite obvious to all concerned that in order to be effective we need to work closely together and co-ordinate our activities. We also need to share information, resources and support each other’s activities and we need to present a strong and united front to the various levels of governments and members of parliaments.

“This meeting was very positive and constructive,” Mr Epov said. The meeting resolved to:

o Establish a Mid Coast Regional Council of Alliances (MCRCA) opposing CSG mining.

o That draft objects of the MCRCA be prepared by a working party drawn from the members of the council.

o That the membership of the MCRCA be one representative from each of the member alliances.

o That the membership of the MCRCA be extended by invitation to other alliances in the region with similar concerns and issues about CSG mining.

o That in the interim period of establishment the Manning Alliance Inc function in an auspicing role.

o That alliance members may develop and/or maintain their links to other state and national organisations opposing CSG mining.

For further information please contact Peter Epov on 6550 5853.