A group supported by ACT Brumbies flanker David Pocock has stepped up its calls on the ACT government to divest the territory's shares in Whitehaven Coal.
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Former Wallabies captain David Pocock, along with five other Canberrans and one farmer, have been arrested and taken into custody after being chained to a super-digger at the controversial Maule's Creek open-cut mine on Sunday, according to activists.
NSW police said Narrabi police arrested all seven of the activists chained at the mine's construction site at Leard State Forest but would not confirm their identities. They were charged with entering enclosed land without lawful excuse, remaining on enclosed land without lawful excuse, and hindering working of mining equipment.
Mr Pocock, who occupied the digger since 5.30am, said the time had come for "more direct action on climate change".
"It's inspiring to join other Canberrans ... in their call for the ACT government to quit their investments in Whitehaven," Mr Pocock said.
Last week Greens minister Shane Rattenbury also urged the ACT government to divest its shares with the coal company.
Mr Rattenbury said the government had more than $100 millionin investments in 70 fossil fuel companies, including Whitehaven.
"I think it is unacceptable that the ACT government would invest in a company responsible for the destruction of thousands of hectares of endangered woodland and I am calling on the government to take action now," Mr Rattenbury said.
ACT Treasurer Andrew Barr had said the government was aware of the "potential impacts of fossil fuel" and has been implementing the responsible-investment policy framework.
The $767-million mining project in the Leard State Forest is expected to be completed in January. It has faced criticism since production began for the impact it will have on native species, Aboriginal sites and nearby water supplies.
The Leard Forest Alliance, comprising farmer groups and prominent environmental groups, has been at the forefront of protests with the establishment of the Leard Blockade camp in 2012.
An alliance spokesperson, Phil Evans, said: "This mine has been a rort from the word go - and this is why prominent Australians, farmers and cityfolk are flocking to the area to oppose this symbol of corruption and climate disaster."
A farmer from the area and long-time vocal opponent of the mine, Rick Laird, said he was protesting for sake of his children.
"The mine is about four kilometres from the school they go to and I worry about their future and their health growing up next a coal mine that is always blasting and kicking up dust," he said.
Police alllege another two activists were within the mine site, but not locked onto any equipment. They were issued field court attendance notices for the offences of enter enclosed land without lawful excuse, and remain on enclosed land without lawful excuse.
All protesters were released on bail and are due to face court in January.
There have been more than 280 arrests since August 2012.
