They were joined by major breeding and racing associations from Australia at a media conference at Randwick Racecourse on Tuesday to put the plan to the State Government.

Some of the biggest names in Australia’s thoroughbred industry have agreed to and signed off on the plan, including Gai Waterhouse and Bart Cumings, which among other things calls for a moratorium on all new mining operations until an independent report is completed.

They are also calling for a dedicated agricultural minister and an independent planning commission.

Arrowfield Stud chairman John Messara says the Thoroughbred Breeders of the Hunter Valley aren’t against mining.

“But we can’t stand by and watch a 150 year-old industry that contributes so much to NSW and Australia be decimated,” he said.

“Our campaign in based on restoring balance, certainty and sustainability to the Hunter Valley.

“We want to see an end to the sterilisation of productive agricultural land in the hunter Valley. The release of our 10-Point Plan of Action enables us to clearly put our aims before Government, the Opposition and the public.”

Coolmore thoroughbred stud near Jerry’s Plains is not immune from mining operations in the area, and has signed the 10-Point Plan of Action to help preserve the area.

Coolmore Australia general manager Michael Kirwan said they believe it is a time for action.

“The Hunter Valley is recognised as a centre of excellence in the sphere of horse breeding, not just by Australians, but by industry participants throughout the world.

“It’s time that action was taken to protect what is a special place and we feel that the 10-Point Plan of Action is a positive step in terms of trying to achieve this,” he said.

Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association president Wayne Bedggood said there has been no response from the government to the plan, and if things don’t start to change the consequences will be devastating for the industry.

“Eventually our members will be pushed out of the Hunter Valley and this industry, in this region, will be lost to Australia,” he said.

NSW Minerals Council CEO Nikki Williams said the council has always been a vigorous advocate of strategic land use planning so there is more clarity and direction.

“We support the NSW Government process currently underway to set out a strategy for coal in NSW. It is important for all industries and stakeholders to have their say,” she said.