The event organized by the Hunter Communities Network will be held at the Singleton Diggers Club on Wednesday, March 18 starting at 6:30pm.

“The Upper Hunter is at the cross roads economically, socially and environmentally,’ said Hunter Communities Network, spokeswoman, Bev Smiles.

“This forum is giving the community the opportunity to discuss future directions in the context of the NSW election.”

Three presenters have been invited to set the scene for discussion:

Jenny Williams, Senior Research Fellow, Hunter Research Foundation

          Overview of the Hunter Economy

Paul Winn, Consultant, Hydrocology Consulting

          Land and water ownership in the Hunter

Cr John Martin, OAM, Mayor of Singleton

          Jobs and business opportunities

The Upper Hunter candidates have been invited to present their policies on future direction for the region.

They have also been asked to answer the question: “Do you support no go zones for mining in the Hunter?”

‘Mines are closing, cutting production and jobs while the global glut of coal grows and prices continue to fall’, said Ms Smiles. “Meanwhile mine expansion is continuing to threaten communities such as Bulga, Camberwell and Wollar and other important Hunter industries such as thoroughbred horse breeding.

“Hunter Communities Network wishes to hear how political leaders plan to balance a diverse economy and community in the region while repairing the enormous environmental legacy of mining.”