Grenfell N.S.W. Farmers District Council chairman, Harvey Matthews said he was overwhelmed with the turnout of local, fair minded, rural dwelling people and the local farmers in supporting the Property Rights Rally in Canberra.
Locals from Bimbi, Bribbaree, Quandialla, Caragabal, Piney Range, Ooma, Warradery, Greenethorpe, Grenfell and Young boarded the two Loaders Coaches as well as private vehicles, to attend the Rights Rally held at Magna Carta Place, Canberra on Tuesday, 2nd February 2010.
The large crowd of over 4000 people was addressed by well known radio identity and rights supporter, Mr Allan Jones, who was the master of ceremonies for the rally.
Mr Jones outlined the facts behind the reasons for why farmers and fair minded thinking Australians were seeking "just terms compensation" for property rights that have been taken from them without the recognition of adverse impact.
Mr Jones told the Rally that “Federal Government, State Governments and local authorities such as the Livestock Health and Pest Authorities, Catchment Management Authorities and Councils all have regulation compliance, not only for your farm and business, but also for your front and back yards as well.
"We have reached a crisis point," Mr Jones said.
Following Allan Jones, the rally was addressed by well known rights activist Peter Spencer who recently went on a hunger strike to highlight his personal plight and to raise awareness of the erosion of property rights in Australia. He explained his personal desperation and reasons for his actions.
Other speakers included N.S.W. Farmers Chairman, Charles Armstrong, Nationals Senate Leader, Barnaby Joyce and Federal Opposition Leader, Tony Abbott. All of whom supported the restoration of policy balance to make sure there is a rational and equitable approach to policy affecting land and natural resources. There has to be true application of sustainable principles in which social, economic and environmental outcomes are given equal consideration which apply to all private and industry sectors.
Harvey Matthews said the N.S.W. Farmers will continue to fight for the restoration of the ability of farmers to manage and develop their properties in a sustainable manner in return for provision of environmental services and for other forms of "just terms compensation" to ensure that farming continues to be a vital part of Australian society and our economy.
Harvey also said "it was a day to have your say and the N.S.W. Farmers encouraged it. Whilst N.S.W. Farmers is giving support to Peter Spencer, many of us were there to support the issues Peter Spencer has highlighted. He has not only made rural dwelling people aware of their rights being eroded, but also the rights of all fair minded Australians.
Harvey would also like to thank all the people who took the time out to show their support by attending the rally. "Together we are a force to be reckoned with".