Have you heard? Gas company, Asset Energy, is planning its return to again blast deafening acoustic pulses into the ocean floor, just off Newcastle’s shore, in search of gas resources.

At “the earliest opportunity” the company aims to undertake 3D seismic testing over a shocking 500 sq kilometre area of our beautiful coastal waters, risking the navigation skills of dolphins and whales and impacting delicate marine ecosystems.

On Thursday, 7 February the Federal Department of Industry, Innovation and Science will host a community drop-in about the the regulation of the offshore gas industry and how you can have your say. This is an important chance to let those responsible know that the people of Newcastle, the Central Coast and Port Stephens will not let our beaches, marine ecosystems and coastal lifestyles be risked by dangerous fossil fuel extraction.

You will join a huge event that will show Asset Energy what to expect from the community this year, as the day it plans to blast our ocean floor draws closer. The coastline of Newcastle and surrounds could be dotted with risky gas rigs if we don't push back against exploration and development in the PEP11 zone.

Wear blue to symbolise the ocean that needs our help and join us outside Newcastle City Hall, at 5:30pm.