Mother nature has given a helping hand to environment groups protesting against the planned start of seismic testing off the coast of Newcastle.
Asset Energy was due to start testing next Monday, but the vessel being used to conduct the seismic survey has been delayed due to the impact of Cyclone Iris.
Environment groups say the continuous underwater airgun blasting will damage the hearing of dolphins and whales and can kill marine life.
They say the delay gives the Federal Government time to step in and stop the risky gas exploration.
