Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House that the mining exploration leases EPC1506 and EPC1539 are currently located over prime agricultural land near the Goomburra Main Range National Park.

The Valley is a highly productive Priority Agricultural Area that includes a diverse range of cropping and livestock industries.  The Strategic Cropping Areas are highly valuable due to the soil, climate and landscape features.  The area also boasts a large tourism industry which attracts many visitors to the area.

The Valley has been identified as a High Nature Conservation Value area and is included within a significant East-West bioregional corridor, home to both World Heritage listed rainforests and an internationally-recognised Important Bird Area. High value vegetation and threatened fauna species have been recorded in the area.

The Valley contributes to Queensland's economic, social and environmental prosperity. Prevalent infrastructure generates jobs and ensures future economic growth throughout the region.  Farming and tourism are compatible industries in this area and could provide food, clean water and recreation for generations to come. A coal mine will destroy local enterprises, take away local jobs and cause unwanted social and environmental damage.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to end both Exploration Permits when they are up for renewal in early 2017 and ensure that no further Resource Authorities are approved over the area.