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Byron Shire
August 29, 2026

Queenslanders direct action against Adani coal mine contractors

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Over 40 Queenslalders, are currently taking peaceful direct action to disrupt contractor Hastings Deering’s industrial complex in Mackay. Photo supplied.

You don’t have to be young to be inspired ot take action to change the future. Over 40 Queenslanders, many in their 60’s and 70’s, are currently taking peaceful direct action to disrupt contractor Hastings Deering’s industrial complex in Mackay where driverless trucks marked for work on Adani’s controversial coal mine are about to begin assembly.

Severe drought and bushfire continue to ravage Australia exacerbating the impacts of climate change and global heating. With fewer and fewer options left to get their message across to both government and business, people are taking to direct action and are actively making the choice to put themselves on the line for a future for their grandchildren.

‘Barb Nelson, 74 is disrupting work at the main gates of Adani contractor Hastings Deering’s and is willing to get arrested,’ say Frontline Action on Coal in a press release this morning.

‘She joins other concerned citizens sending a powerful message that Queenslanders do not want Adani’s mine in their backyard. These concerned citizens in Mackay represent thousands of everyday Australians who are outraged at the government’s green-light for the mine to go ahead.’

There are other concerned Mackay residents including 70-year-old Heather Harrison who are also locked onto the gates of the contractor.

‘I am doing this for my grandchildren, and yours too,’ says Heather.

Rockhampton resident, 60-year-old David McRae, says ‘We can’t allow the Galilee Basin to be opened, the fossil fuel industry has got a stranglehold on our future.’

Earlier this week Greyhound Australia announced they would not enter a contract to service Adani’s mine due to overwhelming public pressure.

‘As a small business owner I want to see the government investing in renewables,’ says Lee Stapleton, 46, who is locked on to the top of a driverless truck inside the Hastings Deering industrial complex.

‘Only through investment in clean energy can we create a thriving Queensland economy for our children.’

Barb Nelson is golding a sign stating ‘Adani = Great Barrier Grief’ while many others are standing behind a giant banner with the slogan ‘Truck Off Adani!’



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