A MINING company searching for coal just outside Bacchus Marsh, about 50 kilometres west of Melbourne, says its early findings are much better than expected, with an estimated 1 to 2 billion tonnes of export-quality brown coal in the area.

But West Australian company Mantle Mining could have a fight on its hands, with the local community bitterly opposed to its plans for an open-cut mine.

Don't cross the fence: Kate Tubbs insists the farming community of Parwan, on the southern fringe of Bacchus Marsh, will rally to prevent coal mining on its land. Credit:Joe Armao

Wheat and barley farmer and harness racing stable owner Kate Tubbs said residents would rally to fight any attempt by the company to acquire their land.

''We're quite adamant that we're not going to allow them on to our property,'' said Mrs Tubbs, whose farm lies beside three drill holes.