The hearing is an initial one, where the warden may give directions to the parties, set a hearing date and/or adjourn to a further mention date.

The Warden’s office has told those who have objected to the proposal, that if they did not wish to attend in person or by lawyer or agent on the nominated mention hearing date, (September 29) they must make a written application before the hearing, supported by written submissions.

The Warden’s office warned if a party did not appear and had not been excused they may have costs awarded against them and matters determined in their absence.

There have been more than 70 objections to the application which included DEC and Augusta-Margaret River shire.

It relates to only one of the exploration licences, though there are more by Western Coal.

“It’s a “mention hearing”, one of those who have objected told the Mail.

“I am aware of all the other exploration licences, but I would guess that they will be receiving separate letters to appear in court.

“You ask what my thoughts are. With regard to the actual hearing, I don’t know what to expect, never having been to one before and to be honest.

“I am apprehensive, being an ordinary citizen, who doesn’t happen to have a law degree, has very little free time, and with no experience relating to these matters.

“It’s also difficult for me as I work and it will mean taking time off.

“However, aside from all of this, I put in a submission because I am concerned about the very serious threat to our water resources, our arable farmland, our environment, our endangered flora and fauna, our health, our quality of life and the tourism in this area which depends on our clean and green image.

“This area needs to be protected from all coal and coal seam gas (CSG) mining.

“There are approximately 60 names on the list, along with mine who have been advised about this mention hearing.

“I believe that this is a good indication of the level of concern in this area.”