With the Copenhagen summit just weeks away, the issue of climate change is making daily headlines.

But despite all the talk of emission trading schemes and carbon reduction technologies, coal mines in Australia seem to be expanding, seemingly without end.

One protest group has had enough, and say that it’s time for more direct action.

Climate Camp is a three day protest, which began yesterday.

The action is taking place in Helensburgh, the site of the Metropolitan Collieries, which has recently been given the go ahead from the state government to expand coal mining activities.

Julia Holman compiled this report.