Bubbling Condamine worries farmers
IN FOUR locations along the Condamine River near Chinchilla, suspected methane gas has bubbled to the surface, allegedly leaking from nearby coal seam gas plants.
While Warwick may not have felt the impact yet, with exploration under way across the region, it could be closer than expected.
Massie Bony Mountain farmer Richard Jubb, whose property backs on to the Condamine River, said if CSG plants were to be established nearby and methane was to leak into the river, the affects could be a concern.
"I don't think it is a problem at this stage but, yes, it is worrying," Mr Jubb said.
"It doesn't sound good to me."
State leader of Katter's Australian Party Rob Katter has called on ministers to investigate the methane gas leaks after footage of the bubbling water was captured by the Lock the Gate Alliance.
"When you have a bush river bubbling like a bottle of soda water, you know you have a problem," Mr Katter said.
"Any sensible government would step in and investigate these leaks because of the risk posed to water and food security."
The Southern Downs does not yet have any secured sites for CSG mining.
