We have lots of new readers and we are so glad you are liking our posts. We hope you can join us at some of our coming events. All our Nannas know what it is like to join our group – it can be overwhelming at first with all that’s going on. But after a while you find your slot and things you like doing. A good introduction to the Nannas is to join us at our singing practice and meeting at Customs House library, Circular Quay, on Friday 26 July from 10am to 1pm.
Crafternoon
On Saturday 13 July a dozen Nannas gathered at Nanna Elizabeth’s place for an afternoon of catching up, meeting newer members, sharing craft materials, skills and information and enjoying afternoon tea. Progress was made on plans and materials for some upcoming events.
We also know how to craft an afternoon tea.
Protest Laws
Protest actions by Blockade Australia have blocked the rail line to Newcastle coal port over the last three weeks and have resulted in 30 arrests. Two of the protesters were given gaol sentences, while others were fined between $750 and $1500. Laura Davey, 21, from Tasmania and Sam Gribben from Bellingen were sentenced to gaol terms of two months and one month respectively. Both have appealed their sentences and are currently on bail.
This is the first time the anti-protest laws passed in 2022 have been used against protesters. The Guardian and Blockade Australia’s Blog
Last week we were reading Protest in Peril Report launch from the Human Rights Law Centre. They have found that “people’s ability to come together freely and peacefully to speak out on issues they care about is being steadily eroded in Australia.”
“The report recommends governments to:
- repeal anti-protest laws;
- ensure laws meet the minimum standards set out in the Declaration of the Right to Protest; and
- introduce human rights acts across federal, state and territory governments”
Unless both state and federal governments stop approving fossil fuel mining, more environmental defenders, advocating for climate change action, will clog the court system.
Coal Expansions
The biggest coal mine expansion in NSW has been applied for, extending The Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) coal mine’s life by 25 years. Nannas are getting ready to write submissions against it and encourage others to do the same. Here are some links for sharing to raise awareness with your friends and family.
Lock the Gate – explainer and video
ABC 7.30 Report – video
You can meet with your MP and raise your concerns or join the Nannas at events – the first in Wollongong on Friday 19 July. More information here
Four Sydney Knitting Nannas recently went on a Hunter Valley Coal tour and were shocked by what they saw – this is their report.
Yancoal’s Moolarben Coal Mine near Mudgee is another open cut expansion in the Planning system and this will require the destruction of over 600 hectares of native vegetation, including koala habitat. Mudgee District Environment Group.
Sydney Nannas are monitoring both these expansions as they pass through the planning system and will be asking you for help to take action to stop them when there are opportunities to have your say.
Hitchhiking Nannas
Nannas Eartha Knit and Nola Knitting have hitched a ride with Nanna Anne as she travels through central Australia. They enjoy a campfire but are thrilled when they get a bed of their own on a cold winter night. How cute are these baby emus!
Nannas are watching
Sadies the Cleaning Ladies from 2015 – Sadies clean up the political pigsty – mining mixed with politics is shady. This Movie was in response to the Liberal National Party calling a snap election in Queensland. With mining leases over 54% of Australia, the Sadies, SNAGs and KNAG joined together to uncover dirty deals done with fossil fuel mining companies. Unfortunately, it’s still going on, but the public is more aware of it now and are calling for restrictions on political donations and curbing access to lobbyists.
Highway to Hell: Climate Change and Australia’s Future – Climate Scientist, Dr Joëlle Gergis, the Australia Institute Writer in Residence for 2024, has an in-depth conversation on her searing essay with Polly Hemming, Director of the Australia Institute’s Climate and Energy program.
Nannas are reading
Big Battery Storage Map of Australia – This Big Battery Storage Map of Australia includes all big battery projects of 10MW or 10MWh and above. Renew Economy
Forthcoming Events