Councillors voted unanimously last week to write to the state government commending its decision to maintain the ban on coal seam gas practices, also known as “fracking”.

The council also recommended the government examine the social and environmental impacts associated with the method of mining.

Moyne Shire mayor James Purcell said a number of ratepayers had expressed concern over potential coal seam gas mining in the region.

He said the moratorium extension had eased concerns from south-west residents.

“It’s a highly controversial form of mining and something that requires more investigation,” Cr Purcell said.

“I think it’s wise the state government has decided to take a wait-and-see approach.”

Cr Jim Doukas said any fracking development in south-west Victoria would damage the region’s clean agricultural reputation.

“If we want to be the ‘food bowl of Asia’, I think the best way of going about it is to avoid this whole fracking stuff altogether,” he said.

In a letter to primary producers, United Dairyfarmers of Victoria general manager Vin Delahunty wrote about the state of coal seam development in Victoria. 

He said the farm lobby group was developing its policy and would release details in the new year.

alex.sinnott@fairfaxmedia.com.au