Mr Robertson, who owns and operates a bio-dynamic beef producing property on the Manning River, was a key speaker at last month's coal seam gas rally at Club Taree, and on the same day gave evidence to the NSW Upper House inquiry into coal seam gas activities.

Manning Alliance chairman Peter Epov announced Mr Robertson's decision to join the committee, saying: "I am delighted that Bruce has agreed to join the Alliance. He is a highly talented man with a wide range of skills which will greatly assist our work.

"Bruce has an excellent reputation within this community and just adds to the talent bank that we are developing to oppose coal seam gas mining in this valley."

Mr Robertson has an overwhelming passion for the Manning River, to protect it and to preserve the region's future water supply.

"I know that Bruce wants to enhance and protect the quality of the water and the amenity of the Manning River and its contribution to our district," Mr Epov said.

"I intend to seek a meeting with the chairman of MidCoast Water, John Weate, both to introduce Bruce Robertson and to discuss a number of serious matters."

Mr Robertson had made a valuable contribution to the inquiry into coal seam gas, which took evidence at several locations across the state, Mr Epov said.

"He produced his own submission, and was one of only 40 individuals and groups out of 800 to be actually invited to give evidence.

"During the hearing, he clearly demonstrated that he wasn't afraid to mix it up with the politicians when it was necessary, and he clearly came out on top."

Mr Robertson said he was very pleased to be joining the Manning Alliance, which he said had done an extraordinary amount of work and achieved outstanding results in bringing the issue of coal seam gas mining to the forefront of the Manning community in a very short time.

"I share their passion as well as their commitment," he said. "I am very concerned about the future of the Manning River, our future water supply and a number of serious issues regarding the health and quality of our water and I look forward to the opportunity of meeting with the new chairman of MidCoast Water at the earliest opportunity."