MDEG has organised a “Defend Our Water” event in Lawson Park at the Cudgegong River weir at 10am on Sunday.

Speakers will include Trevor Crosby, president of the Cudgegong Valley Water Committee with music by Bob Campbell from Ulan.

MDEG spokesperson Bev Smiles said the Cudgegong Valley’s water security was threatened by the proposed Cobbora Mine at Laheys Creek.

“An additional 3.5 billion litres of high security extraction per year will threaten the water supply for Mudgee, Gulgong and the wine industry,” she said.

“It is time to join people across the nation to protect our water security.

“The mining complex at Ulan and Wollar has had a significant impact on the health of the Goulburn River. Mining proposals in the Bylong Valley and at Running Stream will affect farming operations and destroy good groundwater systems.

“The large Cobbora Mine proposal west of Gulgong will have a significant impact on water security for the region, including the Talbragar River catchment.”

MDEG is inviting the community to add their voice to help protect our vital river and groundwater systems.

RSWUA members and supporters will gather at noon on Sunday at “Morven Park”, 6216 Castlereagh Highway, Cherry Tree Hill, for a picnic at the source of Running Stream.

This day also marks the official launch of The Puggles Club, a sub-branch of the Association for kids.

“We all know how important running streams are, not just for humans but for all living creatures,” said spokesperson Nell Schofield.

“So we’re inviting young people to join us in our mission to protect them!”

The “Defend Our Water” day, coinciding with National Water Week, is led by Lock The Gate.

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