I am local of over 40 years, operate an eco-tourism business and am a qualified hydrologist having just completed a PhD research project on the Goulburn River. I do not support KEPCO's plans to mine the heart of the Bylong valley.

The benefits from this proposed mine are short term, greatly advantaging a select few while leaving a devastating legacy. The reliance on the coal industry as an economic base and future employer are problematic.

There is already three mega-coal mines operating in the district, and the future of coal as an energy source is limited.

Our region needs to urgently transition away from reliance on the fossil fuel industry in the burgeoning climate crisis we are facing.

Mr Kennedy ignores the long term disadvantages of this mining project; the destruction of an irreplaceable water system, the displacement of a community and loss of future opportunities to advance sustainable agriculture, tourism and renewable energy as the economic base for the region.

This relies on access to permanent water sources. I am interested to see Mr Kennedy's response if this coal mine development was on the edge of Mudgee town or in that water source?

The Bylong Valley is unique and of national significance. All Australians have a right to comment on a project that will destroy its heart and its future.