NO COAL!ition spokesman Brent Watson said: “The Warden did seem surprised himself at that. It may not be classed as contempt of Court but it most certainly was contempt of community.”

The courtroom was packed on Thursday with objectors, who had been told they must appear or risk having their objections dismissed.

The Mail understands Western Coal representatives Hetherington Exploration claimed they were not formally informed of the hearing.

However, the Department of Mining and Petroleum said the notice of mention hearing addressing the applicants of E70/4079, Western Coal Pty Ltd, was dated August 15 2011 and posted by the Department of Mines and Petroleum.

Mr Watson pointed out that there had been press coverage of the impending hearing.

Hetherington Exploration had not responded to the Mail’s calls at the time of going to press.

The Warden will write to the proponents asking them to submit a description of their intentions and a summary of the environmental impact, including the impact on water, of their application.

While disappointed that the matter was not dismissed, and by the time and trouble the objectors had to take on the issue, Mr Watson said he was pleased that the date chosen for adjournment was off peak tourism season.

“That was a fair and good call,” he said.

He said the adjournment also allowed the objectors time to add evidence of their objections, and to lodge some late ones.

South West MLC Barry House said it was a “very frustrating process for local residents”.