Last year’s announcement of a $12 billion pumped hydro scheme proposed to be built in the Pioneer Valley by the Queensland Government was met with much local opposition, with hundreds gathering at Bluewater Quay on Saturday to rally against the scheme.
The rally was organised by action group NO Hydro Save Netherdale/Eungella/Mt Dalrymple who enlisted the assistance of Worldwide Rally for Freedom Mackay in hosting the rally.
“We’re trying to educate people on what pumped hydro actually is and what that visually will look like up in the upper Pioneer Valley, as well as the impact that will have on the Mackay region,” said event organiser and action group founder Leila Verban.
“Also, displacing families in a housing crisis and the impact on the Eungella National Park, so there’s many avenues that we’re trying to show that it’s not the right location.”
High-profile political figures were also in attendance including One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts, Nationals Senator Matt Canavan and former Member for Dawson George Christensen.
“This is a thought bubble to get green votes in inner Brisbane, that’s all it is,” said Mr Roberts.
“I believe that this will never go ahead.”
The controversial figures left a bad taste in the mouths of some, however, as they branched off onto other topics.
“We did have some negative feedback from people who, politically, don’t support One Nation and Matt Canavan,” Ms Verban said.
“We feel good that we’ve got a bit of support, but I did feel a bit disheartened that they were putting some of their political agendas in because (the rally) was about the dam.”
The action group will hold a meeting with traditional landowners in March and will then look to organise another rally.
“Many of us don’t believe pumped hydro is even the solution to the renewable energy problem,” Ms Verban said.
“But, if that’s the way that they adamantly go, we also think that there’s potentially a better location.”
The first No Hydro Rally was held at Bluewater Quay on the weekend. Photo supplied
Senators Malcolm Roberts and Matt Canavan spoke at the rally, dividing attendees. Photo credit: Ciaron Paterson
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