Fwd: Antarctica needs proper protection from deliberate acts of pollution

[Denis Wilson <>]

I appreciate that this forum is generally apolitical, but if I may stretch your tolerance just a bit, i believe that this issue is important and likely to be of direct interest to at last some COG members.

I grew up around CSIRO scientists (many Canberra birders) who used travel to Antarctica as ANARE associates. On their behalf I would like to draw your attention to this outrageous breach of Australia's duty to protect Antarctica.

After all, we have just spent millions (and many, many years), ridding Macquarie Island of Rabbits, yet we simply slap on the wrists a tour company when a group deliberately tries to plant "symbolic" seeds on Antarctic territory.

I attach an Open Letter i have just sent to Environment Minister Tony Burke MP..

Dear Minister Burke

I refer to the SMH article: "As you sow, so shall you reap, Antarctic tourism body warns visitor"

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/national/as-you-sow-so-shall-you-reap-antarctic-tourism-body-warns-visitors-20120611-2065a.html#ixzz1xZ6SDgm8

As reported, this is a deliberate act of vandalism and pollution of the Antarctic Territory.
The fact that it is apparently a deliberate act, seemingly inspired by a misguided Biblical reference, only serves to make it worse in my mind.
It is the deliberate, planned action that I find most offensive.
Who travels to the Antarctic with bags of Barley, unless it is a planned move?

I appreciate that you have been quoted in the story,

• The Environment Minister, Tony Burke, said he wanted to improve environmental protection in Antarctica and the waters surrounding it. ''It's all about ensuring there can be growth in tourism but ensuring the footprint doesn't affect the environment,'' Mr Burke said.

Your response seems totally inadequate, to me.
It is just mealy-mouthed platitudes.|

I know you have better judgement than that quote seems to indicate (I follow all your Press statements).

Surely, at the very least you ought ban off the Touring Ship's Company.
It seems it is not the first such offence. (I am not sure if it was the same group or not).
But someone in your Department must know.

Also, what controls exist for scrutinising the activities of tourists in Antarctica?

Specifically, what action has your Department taken under the powers enshrined under the relevant legislation?
http://www.antarctica.gov.au/about-antarctica/tourism/environmental-approvals-for-tour-and-expedition-organisers

Denis Wilson
"The Nature of Robertson"
www.peonyden.blogspot.com.au