The Protect our Land and Water rally has been organised following the release of the government’s Strategic Regional Land Use Policy which fails to deliver on the Liberal and National Party’s clear election commitments.

Thousands of people including community leaders, industry groups, conservationists and concerned citizens from across NSW are expected to walk from Martin Place to Parliament House on the day.

Meanwhile, three new groups have joined the campaign alliance and rally including Rivers SOS, Total Environment Centre, and Stop CSG Sydney

They join a broad range of agricultural, environmental and concerned citizens groups including Caroona Coal Action Group, Country Women’s Association, Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association, Hunter Valley Wine Industry Association, Lock the Gate Alliance, Nature Conservation Council of NSW, Southern Highlands Coal Action Group and GetUp!

NSW Farmers president, Fiona Simson, said the decision to rally was not taken lightly.

“Protecting our precious land and water is an issue which affects everyone in NSW. The seriousness of this issue is reflected in the diverse backgrounds of those prepared to march shoulder to shoulder to Parliament House on 1 May.

“The failings of the draft policy have struck a nerve not only in rural NSW but with business leaders, councils and in the cities and towns. Everyone recognises that our food, water, health, jobs and the future of our communities are under threat if land and water is not properly mapped and protected,” she said.

“In the past 10 years, we have seen an unprecedented escalation of mining and coal seam gas activity across the State.

“What we and our supporters want is for the government to deliver a genuine plan for all NSW communities which protects our land, water and environment and delivers investment certainty for rural businesses.”

NSW Farmers local district chairmen are busy organising people and buses for the day.