Whalers Way is safer after decision
It was recently announced in parliament that the application to clear native vegetation at Whalers Way has been rejected by the Native Vegetation Council. Eyre Peninsula Environment Protection Alliance (EPEPA) welcomes this decision.
In our opinion, it is a triumph of common sense given that Whalers Way has such dramatic scenery, is critical habitat for native plants and animals, is important to the tourism industry, and is so well loved by generations of locals.
Whalers Way has been under a Heritage Agreement for almost 40 years in clear recognition of its ecological value. It is astounding that it was ever proposed to disregard the Heritage Agreement in favour of a destructive industrial facility.
Heritage Agreements are, under law, designed to preserve precious areas of native vegetation FOR EVER. These agreements remain in place if the land is sold or leased. Under the Act, it is explicit that a Heritage Agreement can ONLY be varied or terminated by the minister with the approval of BOTH the Native Vegetation Council AND the Minister.
EPEPA has never been opposed to establishing the space industry in South Australia.
We do, however, want to see careful site selection in areas where the environment is not so adversely impacted. If it is important that such facilities are on the coast, we point out that SA has over 4,200 kms of coastline, much of which is already cleared and degraded.
Given recent events regarding the State Government and the Adelaide Parklands, we are waiting for confirmation from the government that the planned industrialisation of Whalers Way will not proceed. Only then will we celebrate with the community that Whalers Way will remain safe for all to enjoy.
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