A fundraiser in opposition to Santana’s fast-track mine proposal on Saturday (January 31) exceeded “all expectations” in the amount raised, a statement from lobby group Sustainable Tarras said.

More than 150 people attended the ‘Wine NOT Mine’ event at The Canyon (overlooking Tarras and the Upper Clutha), which was supported by 12 local wineries, actor Sam Neill, and artist Grahame Sydney.

Santana Minerals is proposing an underground and open-cast gold mine near The Canyon, which is being considered under the government’s Fast-track Consenting Act.

Read more: Agencies seek more time, challenge engagement on gold project

Money was raised via ticket sales, wine sales, an art sale and private donations leading up to the event, with all funds donated to Sustainable Tarras to cover expert fees and legal support costs as the group makes submissions to the fast-track process.

Speeches at the ‘Wine NOT Mine’ event from Sam and Grahame focussed on their connection to Central Otago and the businesses they have grown here.

“[The] event is indicative of a growing community of ordinary, hard working people who are joining together in whichever way they can to fight against a very large, powerful, very well funded Australian mining company with bad intentions,” Sam said.

“Santana’s aggressive and unwelcome plans will be ruinous for our region. We don’t want this, and we simply cannot let this happen to our land or our people.” 

Grahame said Central Otago’s “breathtaking” landscape has resulted in strong international and domestic tourism. 

“We have to fight against this madness,” he said.

Sustainable Tarras chair Suze Keith said the funds raised would provide the group with a “significant boost”.

She said the group will soon launch more fundraising efforts, and will continue to focus on the “immense risks” of Santana’s project.

PHOTOS: Supplied