Experts and Community Forum

Almost all of the Scenic Rim region is now subject to new Coal or Coal  Seam Gas exploration licences with either Lodestone, Arrow Energy or  Carabella Resources. The Queensland Government is promoting a massive  expansion of coal mining across Queensland and the development of a new  export industry based upon coal seam gas. Coal and Coal Seam Gas mining  are not only impacting on the environment but also on human and  community health.

Chemicals released as particulates or vapours from  the processes, or used in extraction such as the fraccing chemicals have  the potential to release toxins into the environment and cause a range  of illnesses from asthma to cancer.  The tensions in the community,  differences in life style of the “locals” and the workers in these  industries, as well as the loss of agricultural and even town land to  mining can lead to mental health problems and violence. Ecologically  sustainable development should consider the economic, environmental and  social implications of a development and if we have insufficient  information adopt the precautionary principle. This forum aims to  explore these implications with a focus upon the human health impacts.

• Drew Hutton - Lock the Gate Campaign Alliance - will present the  broad picture of coal and coal seam gas development in Queensland
• Dr Dick van Steenis - Public Health Advocate from the United  Kingdom - will talk about the impacts of open-cut coal-mining and  coal-fired power stations on human health.
• Dr Sandra Bayley - Doctors for Science, Sustainability and Social  Justice - will talk about the impacts of coal-seam gas water  contaminants and the impacts on human health.
• Innes Larkin or Bill Parke - Keep Scenic Rim Scenic - will talk about the campaign to "Keep the Scenic Rim Scenic"
• Q & A Discussion

When: Friday March 18 from 6.15 pm for a 6.30pm start.
Where: Meeting Room - Centacare St Mary's, Petersen Street, Beaudesert.
Info: Light Supper & Gold coin entry.
RSVP: Debbie 5541-3426 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Hosted by Logan and Albert Conservation Association (LACA) Inc www.laca.org.au

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Human health Impacts from Coal and Coal Seam Gas Forum Flyer