Yes, this is a very divisive issue in Mallacoota, with the majority of
residents bitterly opposed to the building of the boat ramp.
There are a couple of issues at stake, both environmental and social. >From an
environmental point of view it has real potential to negatively affect the
surrounding heathland, rocky point, beach and sandbars. For example on the
nearby beach there are nesting Little Tern, and the sandbar serves large number
waders such as Bar-tailed Godwit and Eastern Curlew. Eastern Reef Egret is
regularly recorded on the rocky point at Bastion Point (one of the only sites
in Victoria this species is recorded), and in heath and scrubland next to
Bastion Point I've personally recorded Ground Parrot and Pilotbird. From a
social point of view Bastion Point is the main swimming beach of Mallacoota. It
has excellent surf and is perfect for families. In summer it is essentially the
towns social hub.
The main reason the boat ramp is being built is to help service the abolone
industry in Mallacoota, an industry directly linked to local state member of
parliament Craig Ingram (prior to parliament Craig Ingram worked in the abalone
industry).
Despite the proposal to build the boat ramp being rejected by an independent
goverment initiated enquiry (only twice in Victoria's history has an
independent panel found in favour of a community group rather than a
development proposal) and an Environment Effects Statement, the Planning
Minister Justin Madden has giving the all clear to the boat ramp.
It seems obvious that the reason for this is so the government gets Craig
Ingram support in parliament. In essence there is a direct suggestion that
Justin Madden is seeking Craig Ingram's support by personally placing money
into his and the abalone industries pockets.
As a result the Friends of Mallacoota and the Save Bastion Point Campaign have
filed personal proceedings against Minister Madden in the Supreme Court. This
is the first time a Minister has been personally taken to court when dealing
with government proceeding.
Personally (despite being a dedicated Labour Party supporter) I've serious
doubts about this issue. Mallacoota is such great place with wonderful birdlife
- it would be a great shame if localised political corruption and greed should
take hold in one of Victoria's last great wilderness areas.
Cheers,
Tim Dolby
-----Original Message-----
From: on behalf of Marlene Lyell
Sent: Fri 05/03/2010 13:24
To: birding-aus
Subject: Mallacoota on Vic Stateline tonight
Hi All,
I know there are many birders on this site who visit Mallacoota and
would be interested to know the current situation about the long battle
regarding the Breakwall and Boat ramp proposed for Bastion Point. There is
a segment on Victorian Stateline at 7.30 tonight (Friday 5th)' on the ABC.
Below is a link if you require further information
http://savebastionpoint.org/
Marlene.
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