Michael Caton, best known for his role in iconic film The Castle, has appeared in a short video with Mr Windsor, discussing the controversial issue of coal seam gas exploration on the Liverpool Plains.

The short interview was filmed at the city’s Tamworth Hotel, with the actor questioning the former member about mining activity – one of the major issues on his political platform.

Caton is no stranger to water matters, having worked in pumping and irrigation as a windmill salesman before he shot to Australian stardom.

“You’re a hero of mine, my favourite movie is The Castle,” Mr Windsor told Caton before the conversation turned to the science of coal seam gas mining.

“Obviously there’s magnificent soil there, and it’s probably the second-best soil in the world,” Mr Windsor said.

“If you allow a coal seam gas well to be drilled on someone’s farm, it could potentially impact other farms.

“We’re not playing a game here. It’s not windmills, Michael. We are talking massive amounts of water here.”

Caton, who described Mr Windsor as “knowing his onions”, pressed Mr Windsor on the issue of the effects gas wells would have on the groundwater in the plains.

“What you’re basically saying is, we can’t risk this?” Caton asked.

“When the science isn’t there to say this is a safe thing to do.”

The three-minute video ended with an endorsement from the actor.