Injured Wallabies captain David Pocock has written a stirring plea for climate change action after getting arrested for chaining himself to heavy machinery near a New South Wales coal mine development.
The 26-year-old was part of a group of seven people who aimed to disturb the development of the Whitehaven coal mine at Maules Creek.
My parents were always clear with my brothers and I when we were growing up that you have to have the courage of your convictions and that when you commit to something you must fully commit.Farmers like Paul and Rick have very little power to create change on their own. But when they are part of a broader movement of concerned citizens – change becomes possible.
He has been an outspoken climate advocate for years now and his trip to the controversial new coal mine was to "disable" a digger for Maules Creek farmer Rick Laird (right).
Scientists the world over are urging us to act on climate change – to leave coal in the ground and focus on renewables. Farmers like Rick Laird are fighting for the future of their farmlands.If I ask myself the question – what would I want people to do to help me if I was in Rick Laird's position? Then I know I made the right decision. While people may not agree with me being arrested, I hope they will see this as an opportunity to further the conversation about climate change and engage more people in helping to shape what is all of our futures.We all have a role to play.
The Australian Rugby Union issued an official warning for Pocock for his actions in the protest and it drew immediate criticism.
What a bunch of moral midgets you are, @QantasWallabies.
Surely Pocock can protest what he wants without ARU board getting huffy. Standing up (or sitting down in this case) for what he believes in!
david pocock is going to get a warning message from me; you are always being too excellent Mr Pocock & making us look bad. Stop that at once
Pocock is not just passionate about climate change action. He and his partner announced they were boycotting marriage until marriage equality is passed in Australia.
What a man. What a beast. Continue your peaceful action David Pocock.
