Dozens of residents this morning picketed the gates of Wollongong Coal's controversial Russell Vale Mine.
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It was the third protest against the expansion of the Russell Vale Mine, in the last month, and fifth since September.
Stop Russell Vale Mine campaign member Jacqui Besgrov said community members were angry and frustrated at the short-sightedness of the NSW and Federal government.
"An additional 11 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions will come from this notoriously gassy mine. The whole world is watching COP26, the evidence is irrefutable: we can't produce any more coal," she said.
In September Federal Environment Minister Sussan Ley approved Wollongong Coal's controversial Russell Vale mine extension.
The decision cleared the way for Wollongong Coal to extract 3.7 million tonnes of coal over five years from the Russell Vale site - with some of the mining occurring underneath areas of the Sydney water catchment area.
In explaining her decision Ms Ley said the extension did not pose any concerns about climate change.
Saturday's protest was also part of a Global Day of Action coinciding with the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow.
"We all deserve better than the bleak future Wollongong Coal will leave for us," Protect Our Water Alliance spokesperson Dr Rada Germanos said.
"This mine will irreparably damage the water capturing ecosystems that provide all our drinking water, it will trash the cultural integrity of the region, and is run by a company with zero accountability to the local community.
"Community members are doing everything we can to stop this mine from operating, and to stop mining in our water catchment for good.
"Along with millions across the world, Wollongong is standing up and taking action today."
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Agron Latifi
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
Wollongong born and bred. I love reporting about the Illawarra region and have been doing it for more than 20 years. I've moved into sport recently after covering the education round for the last five plus years for the Illawarra Mercury. It's been a great pleasure.
