High emotion at Community Cabinet

MINING exploration and the possibility of a second range crossing were the hot topics at today's Community Cabinet, held at the Mt Lofty campus of Toowoomba State High School.

Premier Anna Bligh was accosted by hundreds of anti-mine protesters as she entered the building. Protesters also interjected throughout the Premier's address and the open question and answer session.

Minister for Employment, Skills and Mining Stirling Hinchliffe was also jeered at by the crowd and attracted a long line of people anxious to speak with him personally.

When asked about the possibility of a second range crossing, Premier Bligh was straightforward in her reply.

"I refuse to promise to do something I can't fund," she said, "and anyone who says they can do it and has the money is not telling you the truth."

On a happier note, Premier Bligh announced the flood-damaged Toowoomba rail line was due to open on March 28, three months ahead of schedule.

“This will take trucks off the road and put freight back on trains and that will be welcomed by residents,” she said.

Residents were keen to discuss the possibility of mining exploration near Felton and Gowrie Junction, with many residents issuing impassioned pleas to the Premier.

Gowrie Junction resident Debra Stanley's young daughter suffers from cystic fibrosis and breathing in coal dust could be fatal for the little girl.

"She already has a death sentence hanging over her head," said Mrs Stanley, "and now we have to worry about this?"

Constituents had the opportunity to speak with individual ministers after the question-and-answer session.

The Community Cabinet will head to the Oakey Cultural Centre on Monday.