News and Events:

The Queensland Government has proudly announced its commitment to introduce new measures to improve relationships between farmers and resource companies through its Land Access Strategy. But a commitment to easing access to farmland for mining development falls woefully short of the type of Land Protection Strategy that is desired by farmers across the state facing land acquisition from mining interests. This commitment does nothing to provide any meaningful security to land holders, to prime agricultural lands, or to high value conservation areas all at risk by the continuing expansion of coal. 

The Federal Government's Senate Select Committee on Agricultural and Related Industries has found, in no uncertain terms, that "prime agricultural land needs to be protected from mining developments" and that "protecting the most productive agricultural land is an important step in maintaining efficient and quality food production systems and ensuring the nation's food security."

This landmark inquiry has recommended that all jurisdictions consider "measures to protect their vital agricultural resources from mining and other activities in their respective jurisdictions."

This morning Steve and Nathan from Six Degrees were ordered to pay damages of over $3400 to Queensland Bulk Handling Corporation after a protest at the Brisbane coal port in October where they halted coal loading and had to be cut free of port infrastructure.

A brief diversion from coal to mention the inspiring efforts of some of our friends in the Climate Justice Fast. It's day 16 of the hunger strike (yep, they haven't eaten a thing for 16 days!) and today one of the Australian fasters, Paul, made a great vlog post on civil disobedience.

This is very pertinent given that Steve and Nathan from Six Degrees will be facing court tomorrow for disrupting coal loading during last month's Brisbane Coal Port Blockade.