mallacoota fight dismissed by court

Last Thursday was a dark day for the community who have been tirelessly campaigning against the construction of a large breakwater and boat ramp at Bastion Point, Mallacoota. The latest Supreme Court decision is disappointing for locals who’ve campaigned hard to see the development stopped.

“The Planning Minister, true to form, once again turned his back on local communities and gave the approval to proceed with this construction in the face of overwhelming community objection and EES advice”The Minister for Environment, Gavin Jennings, now has the final say as to whether the project goes ahead. What is hard to believe is that Planning Minister, Justin Madden recommended the option that “meets none of the evaluation objectives well and three highly significant objectives poorly. Overall it is unacceptable; having no demonstrated overall societal benefit, and should not be considered further,” (according to the EES panel).

“The Planning Minister, true to form, once again turned his back on local communities and gave the approval to proceed with this construction in the face of overwhelming community objection and EES advice,” said Samantha Dunn, Greens Upper House Candidate for Eastern Victoria.

Mallacoota is a pristine wild coast region of Victoria and should be maintained as that. The development of a 130mt long breakwater and ocean access boat ramp is an unnecessary and unwanted overdevelopment of the region.

“The most recent decision of Justice Robert Osborn is another nail in the coffin of community aspirations. All is not lost for the people fighting to oppose this overdevelopment of the area. It still needs final sign off from the Minister for Environment, Gavin Jennings,” said Samantha.

“Let us hope that the Environment Minister acts for the environment and the people and recognises this region for its true value as a pristine and special wild coast area of Victoria. “

Will the government do what is right and just to reject this unwanted overdevelopment?