Sometimes the media see this fight, in a political sense, between Labor and Liberal. Ironic because, as far as my memory goes, it was Labor who first proposed cutting the line.

Be that as it may, I would like to thank first Senator Janet Rice (Greens Victoria) for speaking at the last rally in Newcastle.

She brought a true insight and greater knowledge into the Liberals’ rotten plan to end the line at Wickham and sell the available land to the developers. 

Senator Rice has a PhD and is a strategic transport planner. She was chair of the Metropolitan Transport Forum (in Melbourne) and has a background in town planning. She was very outspoken and described cutting the heavy rail line as foolish and a reversal of what is happening elsewhere. 

Also at that last rally was Mehreen Faruqi (Greens MLC NSW) who has a PhD in environmental engineering and a Masters in Environmental Science. Her ­knowledge about sustainability in cities is second to none. She also condemned, in no uncertain terms, cutting the rail line. 

Thirdly I would like thank the many Maitland Greens members who have taken an active role, spending many hours of their own time to meet and greet Maitland rail commuters to warn them of the consequences of the rail cuts. 

Tireless workers for the community. The Greens have always, and will continue, to support an increase in public transport – better facilities and more of them. 

The rail line into Newcastle is critical for the young, heading to the beach, young families looking for entertainment and the elderly seeking professional help.

My thanks to the Greens in no way detracts from the dedication and work of the Save Our Rail group. Maitland’s Kim Cross has been at the forefront and deserves much praise. Joan Dawson is a legend. 

Finally, I ask all rail supporters not to lose heart. The rail situation is not over yet and hopefully People Power will prevail in the end.

- JOHN BROWN, Greens candidate for Maitland