PHOTO GALLERY
Justice for the Broken Valley and Northern Victorian Irrigators Inc protest with Push for the Bush and Mountain cattlemen at the opening of Robert Mitchell's ALP Campaign office 9.11.2006
Mountain cattlemen, Charlie Lovick, Kellie Lovick and Graeme Stoney MP, and Bill Sykes MP agree with the sign at the opening of Robert Mitchell's campaign for Benalla.
LAKE MOKOAN PROTESTS October 2006
PUT LABOR LAST!
That was the rousing call which got a huge round of applause from the 2000 people protesting against Bracks' plans to drain Lake Mokoan. The irrigation and recreation provided by this lake near Benalla in Victoria's North East is vital to farmers and the local community - especially so in the midst of a drought. But Bracks has ignored the detailed and constructive alternatives to draining the lake which have been proposed by the Justice For The Broken Valley group.
The lake (despite the drought) has the capacity to supply much needed water to other communities as well - it is Victoria's sixth largest water storage.
Therefore draining the lake makes as much sense as shooting a hole in your last water tank.
But the locals are not quitters and their massive rally showed that Steve Bracks has a huge fight on his hands.
It was a privilege to be there and feel the spirit. If every other country Victorian is as resolute, Bracks will be looking for a new job after November 25th.
The protest was organised by Justice For The Broken Valley.
If you wish to support them they can be contacted as follows - President David Rush 5768 2461, Secretary Mike Reid 5766 2237
For further information – Bob Richardson 0402 658 012, pushforthebush@bigpond.com
An eloquent statement.
The Benalla community plans to fight hard to keep Lake Mokoan.
2000 protest at Brack's plans to drain Lake Mokoan.
John and Marg Laughton have seen tow world wars but they still have have the fighting spirit.
