Activists and community members have successfully blocked Whitehaven Coal from beginning construction of the Maules Creek coal mine, near Narrabri.

Whitehaven has contracted the Leightons construction firm to build parts of the project, including a shared spur railway line. Workers had attempted to move equipment into place to start working on the rail but were prevented from doing so by a reportedly peaceful blockade.

Demonstrators including local farmers, residents and conservationists blocked the entrance road to the site, angry that the state’s leadership was allowing the project to continue.

The group voiced fears that the Maules Creek coal mine would destroy endangered woodlands, reduce the water table, contaminate waterways, dump tonnes of coal dust on the communities and emit millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide.

“I am extremely disappointed that Barry O'Farrell is pushing to pass legislation that puts economics above environment and people,” said one Maules Creek local.

“We are not here today simply to disrupt work. We are here to stand and protect the Leard State Forest, vulnerable and endangered species and critically endangered White Box community in a tier 1 protected area... This project will impact on health, water, air quality and the local farming community”

“Local communities, farmers and everyday people are standing up for our right to clean water, good health and a future for the land that sustains us all,” said local farmer, Anne Marie Rasmussen.