Full Story Gina: What does she want? – episode 7
Dec 28, 2025
Delve into Gina Rinehart's formative experiences with Ayn Rand's philosophies and how they shape her coal mining ambitions in Canada. A vivid discussion features the clash between economic interests and environmental concerns, highlighted by Tim Winton's strong critique of corporate influence in politics. The fallout from failed coal proposals, community lobbying tactics, and the complex dynamics of democracy and activism in a resource-rich environment are explored. Rinehart's personal narrative mirrors Rand's characters, raising questions about capitalism's moral standing in today's climate crisis.
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Grassy Mountain Threatens Critical Headwaters
- Grassy Mountain sits in the Crow's Nest Pass headwaters with functioning forests and wildlife including grizzlies, elk and cougars.
- The mine would produce 4.5 million tonnes a year and threaten the Old Man River watershed that supplies southern Alberta.
Local Campaign Bought Support For Grassy Mountain
- Northback (Hancock) campaigned heavily in Crowsnest Pass and funded local programs to secure a 72% referendum yes vote for Grassy Mountain.
- They provided cash, signs, media outreach and even rides to polls to shape local opinion in favor of the mine.
Wealth Turns Regulatory Losses Into Political Battles
- Gina Rinehart repeatedly used legal challenges and corporate restructuring to keep pushing Grassy Mountain after regulator rejections.
- Political lobbying and a sympathetic Alberta government then shifted rules, showing how wealth leverages regulatory change.