Hunter farmers rally in Sydney

Hunter farmers and irrigators say rivers and underground water are unprotected and resource exploration inadequately controlled in the state government’s draft strategic regional land use plan. The Hunter Valley Water Users Association has called for tougher regulation of mining and coal seam gas explorers ahead of today’s march and rally in Sydney to press for big changes in the government’s plan. The protest will bring together Hunter farmers, environmentalists, community groups, thoroughbred breeders and the wine industry, reports the Newcastle Herald.