Local community environment groups gathered at the Nature Conservation Council Regional Conference in Batemans Bay on the weekend (Sat 7 and Sun 8 May) to discuss current challenges and opportunities for the environment, including marine protection, forestry issues and the state’s planning laws.
Participants highlighted the vital role of local and regional advocacy for environmental protection in NSW, and explored plans for further collaboration and greater community involvement in future campaigns. They also shared experiences of recent campaigns and lessons learned.
Nature Conservation Council of NSW Chief Executive Officer Pepe Clarke said, “The local member groups meeting at Batemans Bay look forward to constructive dialogue with the State government for better environmental outcomes for the South East and all of NSW.
“In its first weeks, the new Government has scrapped controversial Part 3A legislation and committed to further planning reform. We urge the State government to ensure it delivers on its promise to place community participation, accountability and environmentally sustainable development at the centre of new state planning laws,” he said.
Coastwatchers President Sheila Monahan said, “There is strong community and scientific support for the iconic Batemans Bay Marine Park. Media reports this week have highlighted recent research finding that snapper are faring better in the sanctuary areas of the local marine park rather than outside these areas.
“The results in Batemans Bay are no surprise; it adds to the overwhelming scientific and anecdotal evidence that marine parks and their sanctuary zones work,” she said.
South East Regional Conservation Alliance Convenor Keith Hughes said, “I was appalled at the recent arrival of machinery to produce wood pellets from high conservation value native forests at the SEFE Woodchip Mill before approval for its use has been received.
“This premature move once again shows the company’s flagrant disregard for the environment, local community input and due process. It also highlights the urgent need for transparent and accountable processes for an industry poised to move from woodchips to native forest wood-based energy production,” he said.
On Sunday, Pepe travelled with members of Coastwatchers to witness first-hand the impacts of poorly planned development and coastal erosion and sea level rise. He said the challenges in Batemans Bay highlight the challenges of overdevelopment and the need for an overhaul of existing plans to re-establish public participation and ensure decisions are based on the principles of ecologically sustainable development.
Photo: (from left to right) Coastwatchers Association President Sheila Monahan, Nature Conservation Council Chair Prof Don White, Nature Conservation Council CEO Pepe Clarke, South East Regional Conservation Alliance Convenor Keith Hughes.
Photo courtesy Mark Selmes
