Traditional owners, graziers and lobby groups say the gas company's decision to review plans in Queensland's Channel Country should be a 'wake-up call' to governments.
abc.net.au/news/origin-energy-backs-out-gas-exploration-channel-country-fracking/101456466On a stormy afternoon, grazier Kerri Pidgeon and her husband Ken Griffiths are checking creek levels on their sprawling cattle station.The move is being welcomed by traditional owners, graziers and lobby groupsFor almost 40 years, the couple has been living and working the land at Hayfield station, just outside of Jundah, in the heart of outback Queensland's pristine Channel Country.
Kerry Pidgeon and Ken Griffiths are relieved Origin Energy is backing out of its gas exploration permits in the Channel Country."This is one of the great wonders of the world and any fracking or development on the flood outs of the Thomson and Cooper [rivers] is ridiculous." But earlier this week, the company announced it would review its plans in the region "with a view to exiting over time".revealed it had sold its stake in the Beetaloo Basin
"It's not stopping industry, it's just a change of reins … it's just going to continue," Ms Pidgeon said.Mithaka elder George Gorringe grew up alongside the towering red sandhills of the frontier town of Windorah.Mr Gorringe was surprised by Origin Energy's announcement but said it "changed nothing"."I don't know what [the] next mob is going to be like.
Until this week, the traditional owner was hopeful there would be a positive outcome. Now he's not so sure.Government surprised by announcementIt is understood the Queensland government was unaware of Origin's plans until they were made public on Monday. Environmental lobby group Lock The Gate said it was concerned "cowboy" tactics would be used by incoming energy groups.
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