Our Great Sandy Campaign Diary

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 05:40:00 +0000

Campaign Recognised In Environment Awards

Some of the key campaigners who spearheaded the three and a half year battle to stop the Traveston Crossing Dam proposal on the Mary River have been recognized in the prestigious Sunshine Coast Environment Awards.

Organisers of the annual environment awards, the Sunshine Coast Environment Council, recognized the dedication to the environment and marked it with three special awards.

The Greater Mary Association and Save the Mary River Coordinating Group each received an award at the Kawana ceremony on Friday night, as did photographer and graphic artist Arkin Mackay.

Elisabeth Berry and Tanzi Smith flew the Fraser Coast flag when they collected an award on behalf of the GMA. In accepting the award on behalf of Save the Mary President Glenda Pickersgill, fellow campaigner Ian Mackay paid tribute to the “whole of community” response that collectively fought to overturn the proposal.

“Save the Mary had the support of a wide range of individuals and groups in this campaign,” Mr Mackay said, particularly singling out the wonderfully informed work of the Mary River Catchment Coordinating Committee whose Chairman Phil Moran was present on the award night.

“There were times along the campaign trail that a snowflake in hell would have been given better odds than us beating the dam,” Mr Mackay said, “but the Mary River had to be saved and the battle would have gone on until that outcome was achieved.”

Compere for the awards night, local ABC identity John Stokes, concurred somewhat ruefully with the ‘snowflake in hell’ comment, in that some twelve months back, he’d feared that the dam proposal was too far down the track to be stopped, and added that he’d walk backwards to Kandanga if Peter Garrett said “no” to it. True to his word, John’s walk, along with fellow announcer Cam Young, will take place on December 12 and will end at the Save the Mary "Victory Celebrations" in Kandanga held from 3pm-10pm at the Kandanga Recreation grounds.

In receiving the GMA award, Vice President Tanzi Smith recognized the dedication of a whole different community downstream of proposed dam site, from Tiaro to Hervey Bay. Her group had formed out of claims that the dam would have “minimal downstream impacts” and was instrumental in state Sustainability Minister Andrew McNamara losing his seat over the issue at the last state election.

SMRCG president Glenda Pickersgill said that everyone involved in the fight against the dam should be very proud of what they had achieved and these awards helped to recognise that.

“Of course we await Federal Environment minister Peter Garrett’s formal decision on the 2nd December but the “no” that he foreshadowed on Remembrance Day, followed by the Premier’s announcement that the state government wouldn’t appeal that decision, gives us grounds for more than cautious optimism,” Ms Pickersgill said.

“There’s a lot of healing still to happen but this community has shown itself to be both resilient and committed, and is more than eager to be involved in the way ahead, “ she said.

'The community deserves to have a voice in our future vision for the Mary Valley and we urge Ms Bligh to listen and to support us in our way forward."

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:19:00 +0000

Coast Savours Dam Victory
Fraser Coast Chronicle
Carlie Walker | 23rd November 2009

IT WAS a fight that transcended the boundaries of politics – and that was never more evident than on Saturday in Maryborough’s Queens Park when those who had fought the good fight against the Traveston Crossing Dam came together to celebrate their victory.

From Independent Maryborough MP Chris Foley to Hervey Bay MP Ted Sorensen – and several in the crowd who counted themselves as Labor voters but still fought against the dam – it was clear that the fight against the dam had little to do with a particular political persuasion.

Several of the most committed in the fight against the dam, including Daryl Stewart, Glenda Pickersgill and Tanzi Smith, spoke of the emotions they felt when the decision was delivered on the dam by federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett, describing themselves as “stunned” and “overjoyed”.

Several Fraser Coast politicians also spoke, including the federal Minister for Wide Bay, Warren Truss, who spoke of his reaction after he heard that Mr Garrett had canned the dam.

Mr Truss said that five minutes after the decision was made he was contacted by the press and, as he had known a decision was due to be made, he already had two press releases prepared – one for a decision to go ahead with the dam and one in case Mr Garrett decided to veto the dam.

“It was a beauty,” Mr Truss said wryly of the response to be released if the dam was given the tick of approval.

“But I was pleased I didn’t have to use it.”

Mr Truss spoke of seeing Mr Garrett shortly before he made his decision on the dam and said there were no hints prior to his announcing the decision.

“There was no body language – I feared the worst.”

Mr Truss said the decision to stop the dam was the only result that science could support.

“Anna Bligh needs to make peace with the Mary Valley and quickly.”

Mr Sorensen spoke of sharing Mr Garrett’s announcement of his decision with Gympie MP David Gibson.

He said it was clear from the morning session of parliament that Queensland Premier Anna Bligh had no idea the dam would be vetoed by Mr Garrett.

“In parliament that morning she spoke, telling everyone about how important it was to build the Traveston dam.”

Mr Foley brought some light relief to the event, saying he had seen Ms Bligh after the decision was made with “steam coming out of her ears”.

Mr Foley told the group to savour their victory and to be mindful of how close the community had come to losing its river and their livelihoods.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:12:00 +0000

Fights Not Over!
Fraser Coast Chronicle Monday, November 23
Carlie Walker
Photo: Alistair Brightman

THE fight to stop the Traveston Crossing Dam on the Mary River may have been won but the fight to save the Mary isn’t over.

Saturday was a day for celebration for those who had fought tirelessly against the Traveston dam but it was also a day to recognise that much work still needed to be done if the Mary River was to be restored to her former glory.

Glenda Pickersgill also spoke of federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett’s decision to veto the dam because of the environmental damage it would do to the river’s endangered species, including the Mary River cod, turtle and the lungfish.

She said, however, Mr Garrett had approved other conditions that would have seen the dam go ahead, such as the impact on migratory species and the dam’s impact on Fraser Island, and that it was imperative the problems surrounding these issues were made clear.

Ms Pickersgill was also concerned the people of the Mary Valley were supported as they got their lives back together after three years of uncertainty.

“We need to make sure their lives get back to normal as quickly as possible.”

“We still have a lot to do.”

But, although there was a serious side to the day, it was also a day of celebration and Ms Pickersgill said that people power had won the day.

“It has been such a wonderful week,” she said.

“It’s been hard to wipe the smile off my face.”

Tanzi Smith, who played a key role in stopping the dam, said the community should be proud of what it had achieved.

“It really has been the whole community that has made this happen.”

Daryl Stewart, chairman of the Greater Mary Association, said there was still work to be done to make the Mary River a “healthy river”.

Gene Merrill, who has lived by the Mary River for several years, agreed, saying the Mary River is a “very sick river” but that with work and commitment a lot of improvements could be made.

Laurie Wilson, who lives at Big Tuan near the Great Sandy Strait and attended every Greater Mary Association meeting with his wife Betty, said he fought the dam because it would have decimated fish stocks around the Strait.

He said that although Mr Garrett hadn’t found the dam would cause damage to the Strait, he and his wife were prepared to fight the decision if it were necessary.

“We’ll have to see what Garrett’s final appraisal says,” he said, “and if necessary we’ll keep up the fight.”

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 01:52:00 +0000

** MEDIA RELEASE **
Save the Mary River Coordinating Group

Traveston Letters Pass 30 000 Mark

Letters to state and federal politicians expressing opposition to the controversial Traveston Crossing Dam proposal and sent through the Save the Mary Info Centre have passed the 30 000 mark this week but the real total is far greater.

Save the Mary River Coordinating Group president, Glenda Pickersgill concedes the final total may never be known as many people have advised they have sent letters independently.

“The letters have been sent to several key politicians, including the Prime Minister, Queensland Premier Anna Bligh and the State Sustainability Minister Kate Jones,” she said, “but by far the greatest number has been to federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett.”

According to Ms Pickersgill, the volume of letters and the addresses of those who have signed them indicate the weight of public opinion against the proposal.

“We have always known that the campaign has local backing. This was made even clearer by a poll conducted by Warren Truss federal MP in July this year which found that 88% of people in his electorate of Wide Bay are opposed to the proposed dam.”

“Our support is not only local. The large number of Brisbane addresses on these letters shows the extent to which people in Anna Bligh’s backyard disapprove of this project,” said Ms Pickersgill.

“This support in Brisbane was confirmed in August this year when an independent random survey by Griffith University found that 59% of people in Brisbane City are opposed to the proposed dam."

As well as the letters collected by the Save the Mary River Info Centre, the Greater Mary Association, based in Maryborough and Hervey Bay has collected thousands more letters and several earlier postcard campaigns resulted in almost 100,000 cards being mailed directly to state and federal ministers and backbenchers.

“Combined with the more than 16 000 submissions to the dam’s Environmental Impact Statement, these 30,000 plus letters and the poll results would have to go down as something of a record and clearly demonstrate where public opinion lies on this issue,” she said.

“And when you throw in the number of state seats the government has lost over this proposal, most significantly the Sustainability Ministers’ seat in Hervey Bay, it’s plain the proposal has had over three and a half years of public scrutiny and people are convinced that there are vastly better alternatives for a reliable water supply.”

“As well as relying on the scientific advice from his Department, Minister Garrett can take public opinion into account,” said Ms Pickersgill.

“The science shows there is a high risk of irreversible impact to the environment and we have confidence in his department to recognize this. ”

“We urge that the federal government take the lead and encourage Queensland to provide reliable, sustainable water supplies that do not destroy our rivers in line with the ALPs new election platform on water and biodiversity.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Glenda Pickersgill (Save the Mary River Coordinating Group) 041 144 3589
David Kreutz (Save the Mary River Coordinating Group) 043 268 3147
Darryl Stewart (Greater Mary Association) 041 877 1655

BACKGROUND

At the ALP convention in June this year, the Federal ALP decided on a new National Platform. Chapter 9: ‘Tackling climate change and our environmental challenges” (available at
http://www.alp.org.au/download/national_platform_chapter_9.pdf) describes ALP policy on issues such as water security, biodiversity and involvement of farmers in conservation. A small selection of relevant excerpts are provided below in italics with corresponding actions by the Queensland ALP associated with the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam which contradict the Federal platform.

"Labor sees an expanded role for the agriculture sector in meeting major environmental challenges such as soil degradation, salinity, chemical use, water conservation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, river rehabilitation, feral animal and noxious weed control, and the loss of biodiversity. Labor acknowledges the considerable progress made by farmers in these areas."

Anna Bligh does not acknowledge the great progress in conservation by farmers in the Mary River catchment, but instead blames farmers alone for the vulnerability of the Mary River ecosystem and plans to flood and lock up farming land if Traveston goes ahead.

"Labor will also provide assistance for Australian households to adopt water saving and water
efficiency measures in their homes and businesses, including through rebates for households to
install rainwater tanks or greywater systems."

Anna Bligh axed the rebate scheme, 6 months earlier than planned on 31 December 2008 despite the high demand for the program and obvious opportunities for future water saving.

"Labor recognises that climate change means we need to use water more wisely in our cities, at the same time as diversifying our water supplies so that we reduce our reliance on rainfall."
Anna Bligh is investing billions (almost one third of their current investment in the water grid) in 100% rainfall dependent options and discouraging saving by withdrawing the rebate scheme.

"Labor is committed to ensuring proper management and protection of our wetlands and will
promote and honour Australia's obligations under the Ramsar Convention. "

Whereas Anna Bligh's government hasn't even prepared a management plan for the Great Sandy Ramsar and continues to ignore impacts the proposed dam will have on this internationally significant wetland.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:35:00 +0000

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd talks to Greater Mary Association research co-ordinator Tanzi Smith outside Hervey Bay Hospital yesterday. Alistair Brightman

Appealing to PM’s conscience

Fraser Coast Chronicle - Jennifer Chapman 4th November 2009

FLEETING it may have been but anti-Traveston dam protesters believe their meet and greet with Kevin Rudd at the entrance to Hervey Bay Hospital can still have a lasting effect.

Every time the Prime Minister sips his morning coffee from the I Love Mary mug he was presented with yesterday, he may just be reminded of the Traveston dam controversy.

Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett has until November 18 to make a final decision on the $1.8 billion dam and protesters were not shy in their last gasp efforts to influence Mr Garrett’s boss yesterday.

Mr Rudd may also think long and hard about the potential effects the plan could have in his home state whenever he picks up his new No Dam pen.

And his memories of swimming in the Mary River may even be jogged every time he glances at his new Mary River book.

As Mr Rudd climbed out of his car yesterday morning he by-passed the hospital entrance to introduce himself to dam campaigners wearing their signature t-shirts and holding familiar Don’t Murray Our Mary placards.

Mr Rudd shook the hands of every protester before accepting the presents and giving slight hope with the words: “Don’t worry I’ve swum in the Mary I know it’s a beautiful place.”

Then he turned on his heels and strode through a scrum of journalists and photographers as the quiet voice of Greater Mary Association research co-ordinator Tanzi Smith trailed behind.

But despite Ms Smith’s words not getting the attention she desired, the protest was still deemed successful.

“I think it was a good gesture that he came over and met everybody and he has said in the media before that he knows that this is a big issue,” Ms Smith said.

“We’re here to remind him that the Fraser Coast cares about this issue as well and will be affected (and) to reiterate the dam won’t increase Brisbane’s water security and the Federal Government’s own policies on water would be much more sustainable.”

She said the group viewed Mr Rudd’s role as capable of influencing Queensland Premier Anna Bligh in adopting other methods for water security.

Letter to Garrett

WITH just two weeks to go before Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett makes his decision on the proposed Traveston Crossing dam, Hervey Bay MP Ted Sorensen has written to the Labor member.

“I have asked Peter to consider in his deliberations on Traveston what construction this dam may have on the Great Sandy Strait Biosphere and Marine Park.

“The Sandy Strait is classified as a Ramsar Wetland; Ramsar Wetlands are rare or unique wetlands and are important for conserving biological diversity.

"After the devastating effect years of neglect, water damming, irrigation and abuse has had on the Murray River and wetlands, how is the Traveston dam going to affect the biodiversity and sustainability of the Great Sandy Strait?”

Mr Sorensen has asked Mr Garrett to carefully consider the preservation of genetic resources, ecosystems and landscapes and to look at the scientific research into the dam.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 02:01:00 +0000

MEDIA RELEASE
15 October 2009

Mary River Stops Flowing

Recently, the Mary River has stopped flowing to the sea, raising concerns from campaigners regarding what the future holds for the lower Mary catchment and Great Sandy Strait if the proposed Traveston Crossing dam were approved by the Federal Government.

“No water is flowing over the tidal barrage on the Mary River to connect the Mary to the sea,” said Darryl Stewart, Chairman of the Greater Mary Association. “And what is more, Brisbane has not received a drop of water from the Mary yet.”

“When there is no flow over the barrage this means no fresh water to nurture the estuary and its fishery or the Marine Park of the Great Sandy Strait and its internationally vital Ramsar wetlands for migratory shorebirds. The longer the flow stops, the more effect it has on water quality in the estuary. This means steadily deteriorating conditions for estuarine creatures.”

In most years, whether in drought or not, the flow in the Mary falls markedly in the so called “JASON” months from July to November which are the driest months of the year. It then requires substantial rainfall, most of which falls in the upper reaches of the catchment, to provide sufficient run off to regenerate flow down the length of the river.

“The fact that 78% of the Mary catchment happens to lie below the proposed dam is irrelevant rubbish and is one example of the desperate depths that the Queensland Government has reached in trying to justify this unjustifiable dam,” said Mr. Stewart.

“Would someone please advise the Premier and her lame duck cabinet that even Queensland fifth graders know that it is rainfall that drives river flow. The part of the catchment downstream of the proposed dam site might be bigger but it is drier. For example between 1996 and 2005 the part of the catchment around Tiaro produced only 10mm of runoff into the river each year. That is twenty times less than the amount contributed upstream of the proposed dam. Clearly, we need the flows from upstream where more rain falls to provide flows downstream.”

“If we can get that message through to the Premier this week, we might try another simple learning message next week. Watch this space.”

“The situation where we see no flow going to the estuary occurs under the guidance of the Mary Basin Water Resource Plan,” explained Tanzi Smith, Research Coordinator from the Greater Mary Association.

“This is the same regulation that will be operating if the proposed dam goes ahead. This is the same regulation which mysteriously and without scientific justification identified 150,000 ML of water in the Mary Catchment that is available for use. This is the same regulation which is used as a justification for the proposed dam.”

“The Queensland Coordinator General continues to rely on this flawed regulation. He seems to be saying “trust me, it’ll be all right,” suggested Ms Smith. “But we know that the very foundation of the Coordinator General’s claims is full of yawning holes! If the proposed dam goes ahead, nothing is going to improve. Irrigators entitlements won’t improve, the health of the river and the estuary won’t improve. It will only get worse.”

“It is Peter Garrett and Kevin Rudd, our Prime Minister from Queensland, who now have the power to stop this unnecessary dam,” concluded Ms Smith.

The Greater Mary Association is calling on the general public to talk to their local member and write to both Peter Garrett and Kevin Rudd to express opposition to the proposed dam. The public is asked to urge Rudd and Garrett to “Just say No” and to assist the Queensland Government to pursue cheaper and more reliable alternatives.

MEDIA CONTACTS: Darryl Stewart 041 877 1655, Tanzi Smith 040 584 8375
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:42:00 +0000

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE - Greater Mary Association Inc. and Save the Mary River Coordinating Group Inc.

C.G. recognises 1200 serious problems with Traveston dam

Yesterday’s release of the Queensland Coordinator General’s evaluation report for the proposed Traveston Crossing dam raises more questions than it provides answers.

Save the Mary River Coordinating Group secretary David Kreutz said “The Coordinator General bases his report on the assumption that the Traveston Crossing dam is a key component of the Queensland Governments strategy to provide secure water supplies for South East Queensland.”

“This is a myth.”

“It would be a dogger of a dam in a drought,” explained Darryl Stewart president of the Greater Mary Association. “We’ve repeatedly made the point that it would fail in less than 18 months of dry conditions. The Government has never been able to refute this.”

“You’d be crazy to call this water security.”

The report outlined 1200 conditions of approval which Mr Kreutz labeled as unproven and uncharted.

“The 1200 conditions imposed by the Coordinator General means there are 1200 serious problems with this project.”

The release of this report takes the controversial project on to the next stage with Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett finally being in a position to formally take responsibility for the future of the Mary River and Great Sandy Strait.

Mr Kreutz said “We demand that Peter Garrett calls for independent public scrutiny of the 1200 conditions and volumes of associated technical documentation that have not previously been made public.”

“There is widespread unwavering opposition to this proposal. We will continue to harness greater public and scientific support in our fight against this extremely wasteful project.”

Media Contacts

David Kreutz (Save the Mary River Coordinating Group) 043 268 3147

Darryl Stewart (Greater Mary Association) 041 877 1655

Steve Burgess (Save the Mary River Coordinating Group) 07 5484 3749

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 06:09:00 +0000

***MEDIA RELEASE***

5393 More Reasons For Garrett To Listen To The Fraser Coast

A petition to Peter Garrett lodged in Federal Parliament in Canberra last night gives the decision makers on the proposed Traveston Crossing dam 5393 more reasons to listen to the concerns of people on the Fraser Coast regarding the proposal say campaigners.

“We have been requesting the Minister to conduct this independent study for almost twelve months,” said Darryl Stewart, chair of the Greater Mary Association Inc.

“We’ve been told that they are looking into the issues relating to the estuary, but we want a clear guarantee that an independent study will occur prior to any decision by Minister Garrett.”

“We don’t think that is too much to ask, especially considering that over 10,000 submissions to the Environmental Impact came from people who live near the Mary River Estuary, along the Great Sandy Strait or in Hervey Bay.”

The Queensland Government has decided to ignore us. This is Minister Garrett’s chance to show he won’t do the same, ” said Mr Stewart.

The Titmarsh family from Tandora who have lived on the Mary River for five generations were one of many families in the region to get behind the petition which urges Minister Garrett to conduct an independent study of the impacts of the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam on the Mary River Estuary, Great Sandy Strait and Hervey Bay.

“The 5000 plus signatures on this petition show that people from all over Australia agree that the Queensland Government saying there won’t be any impacts on us just don’t make sense,” explained Mr Titmarsh who last year ran 81 km in one day as part of his Mary Mud Double Marathon which drew attention to the plight of the Mary River estuary and Great Sandy Strait.

“We want to make sure that the kids of today, like my grand daughter can still enjoy the Mary and the Strait when they are my age,” said Mr Titmarsh who is no stranger to Canberra after he ran the last leg of the GetUp! Climate Torch relay last year.

The petition was tabled by Member for Wide Bay Warren Truss and Shadow Environment Minister Greg Hunt who stated, “The Labor Party had cynically put plans for the dam on hold just prior to the Queensland election. Peter Garrett must not be complicit in this act of deception. If he examines the science and considers the research that I have seen, he will agree the dam would be a disaster, and must make his decision accordingly.”

Contacts:

Darryl Stewart 041 877 1655

Lindsay Titmarsh 07 4121 5088

Tanzi Smith 040 584 8375

Background

Last year a forum on the downstream impacts of the proposed dam was held in Hervey Bay providing much evidence to justify the concerns of Fraser Coast residents and the national community. A summary (7min) of research presented at this forum by engineers, scientists, commercial and recreational fishermen and conservationists is available at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-iTDSQ_U3s

Full copies of the slides of presentations made that day are available at:

http://www.slideshare.net/greatermary

For further detail, or contacts for presenters on that day, please contact Tanzi Smith on 0405848375 or email her at run.mary.run@gmail.com.

The wording of the petition:

This petition is from concerned Australian residents and visitors to Australia.

We wish to convey to the House and Minister Garrett that we cherish the outstanding natural, recreational and economic values of Hervey Bay and our wetland of international significance, the Great Sandy Strait. We believe that the proposed Traveston Crossing dam will have a permanent detrimental impact on the fisheries and broader ecosystems of the Great Sandy Strait, the Mary River estuary and Hervey Bay.

We applaud Minister Garrett on the independent reviews he has already undertaken and ask that he commission and make public a detailed and thorough independent investigation of the optimal environmental flows needed to ensure that the ecosystems and fisheries of the Great Sandy Strait, Mary River estuary and Hervey Bay do not fall victim to excess water extraction from the Mary River associated with the proposed Traveston Crossing dam.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 07:15:00 +0000

***MEDIA RELEASE***

5,000 Strong Petition Urges Garrett Action on Traveston Crossing Dam Travesty

A petition with 5,393 signatures calling on Federal Environment Minister, Peter Garrett to thoroughly investigate the environmental impacts of the Bligh Labor Government’s proposed Traveston Dam in south east Queensland will tonight be tabled in Federal Parliament by Shadow Environment Minister Greg Hunt and Member for Wide Bay, Warren Truss.

The petition asks Mr Garrett to carry out an independent investigation of the optimal environmental flows needed to ensure that the ecosystems and fisheries of the Great Sandy Strait, Mary River estuary and Hervey Bay do not fall victim to excess water extraction from the Mary River associated with the proposed Traveston Crossing dam.

“I welcome the opportunity to support the environment and the community in their opposition to the Traveston Crossing dam,” Mr Hunt said.

“When I visited the site of the proposed dam last year with Warren Truss, I was impressed by the convincing research that showed the devastating environmental impacts the dam would have, should it be approved.

“It was clear that Anna Bligh was intent on creating a massive evaporation pond over some of Queensland’s best farming land.”

Mr Hunt said the fate of the dam will rest with Mr Garrett, who will make a final decision on the project under the Federal Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.

“The Labor Party had cynically put plans for the dam on hold just prior to the Queensland election. Peter Garrett must not be complicit in this act of deception. If he examines the science and considers the research that I have seen, he will agree the dam would be a disaster, and must make his decision accordingly.”

Federal Member for Wide Bay, Warren Truss said the signatures reflect the community’s deep concern about the environmental destruction that would be inflicted on the entire Mary Valley and the RAMSAR listed Great Sandy Straits should the dam be allowed to proceed.

“Research demonstrates that there are no strategies that can prevent the devastation that would be wreaked upon the endangered Mary River Cod, Mary River Turtle, Giant Barred Frog and the vulnerable Queensland Lungfish should the dam be granted approval by Mr Garrett.

“Brisbane’s water crisis is of Anna Bligh’s creation, and in spite of Anna Bligh’s recent spin and hysteria, there are better and cheaper alternatives available to supply water to Brisbane, which make the Traveston Crossing dam unnecessary.

“Peter Garrett must not allow the Mary Valley and Great Sandy Straits to be sacrificed by the Bligh Labor Government.

“Peter Garrett must stand up to Labor’s machine and stand up for the environment.”

Media contacts: John Deller (Mr Hunt’s office) on 0400 496 596 or 03 5979 3188

Simon Kelly (Mr Truss’ office) on 0418 824 779

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 06:28:00 +0000

***MEDIA RELEASE ***

Queensland Government Desperate with Traveston Dam Referral

The long-awaited "referral" of the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam to Peter Garrett is more an act of desperation than careful planning say those opposed to the project.

What has actually occurred IS NOT a state or federal approval of the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam, but the decision of the Coordinator General to send a draft of proposed approval conditions for the project to the federal government for consideration and feedback, PRIOR to the Coordinator General producing his assessment report on the proposal.

The Save the Mary River Coordinating Group President, Glenda Pickersgill, said the decision to send the draft conditions placed by the state’s Coordinator General has “everything to do with events unfolding in the Federal Court case over the failure to comply with conditions on Paradise dam.”

“This next step in the process has been in the wings for more than 12 months but the timing is surely no coincidence given the events of the last week.”

In the Federal Court last week, the State Solicitor General revealed there had been a request by Sunwater, the state government owned company to Minster Peter Garrett to alter the original conditions placed on the building of Paradise Dam and, as a result, the case has been adjourned until early November.

Now, the State Government has just released the draft Coordinator General's report with draft conditions on the proposed Traveston crossing Dam to the Federal Environment Minister. Although the Premier is claiming a "green light", it is far from it with the Coordinator General's draft report not being available for any critic of the detail.

Ms Pickersgill said "The government is promising something that it cannot deliver. In order to get the 70,000 ML / year the premier claims would be available, the governement's own modelling shows that the river downstream of the dam could be run dry for up to 6 months at a time. This would bad news for the river, the Wetlands of the Great Sandy Straits, Hervey Bay, and World Heritage Fraser island. How environmentally friendly is that?”

"The last dam this government built, Paradise Dam on the Burnett River, is currently in the federal courts over not meeting the environment conditions for its constuction, and hasn't delivered on the economic promises either. Sunwater, a government owned company, have completely ignored the federal condition to provide a fishway suitable for lungfish and that it was to commence when the dam became operational." she said.

"How can anyone have faith in applying conditions when they include totally untested and unproven methods? How can you interpret the request to change the conditions as anything other than an admission of failure to meet them?”

"Similarly the Queensland government's track record for delivering water projects on time and on budget is appalling. For example the Western Corridor and Tugan desalination projects have not produced the water that was promised, nor met the timelines or stayed within the budget."

"The original $1.59 Billion project doesn't include the associated pipelines, or the blowouts of $100M on land purchasing already. The proposed Traveston Crossing dam is not a reliable water supply for a drought strategy and it more expensive than catching water where it falls, implementing water efficiencies in the household or even desalination."

"Because of it's small volume, location, shallowness and associated high evaporation and seepage losses, it would empty very quickly in a drought - providing about 18 months of drought storage at best.. Like a shallow saucer left out in the backyard it would fill very easily when it rains, but provide no useful water storage at all when things get dry."

Ms Pickersgill said big dams not only seriously reduce viable lungfish spawning areas and suitable cover for juveniles but they cause many deaths in the event of overtopping, such as recently shown at North Pine Dam and Somerset Dam.

“Paradise is on trial because of the failings of its unproven fishway system. The proposed Traveston Dam would boast a “world-first” (ie untested) turtle ramp as well.”

The premier should also be reminded that "green" is not a good colour for a dam . The poor water quality and heavy weed infestations anticipated in this storage would make it one of the most destructive impacts that could be imagined for the threatened species of the Mary River which the secret approval conditions are intended to protect.

“For some months now we’ve been calling on the government to send the information off to the federal minister for a decision. Several independent reports commissioned by the minister concurred with many of our concerns that there are no proven mitigation measures so we should feel pretty confident."

“There’s no doubt that we’ve won this on science and that’s what the Minister’s decision has to be based on. We’ve won it on poll-demonstrated opposition, even in Brisbane, but the Premier, despite her election night promise to listen, only seems to listen to the government’s spin department.”

"No public consultation has been entered into on these proposed mitigation measures throughout the state EIS process to date and we are calling for the full extent of these proposals be made available for public comment as part of the Federal approval process in the hands of the federal Environment Minister, Peter Garrett.

Contacts for Media: David Kreutz mb 0432683147, Steve Burgess 5483749, Glenda Pickersgill 0411 443 589, Darryl Stewart (Greater Mary Association) 0418 771 655.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:31:00 +0000

Lessons to Learn from Estuarine Health Report

A recent report into the health of 18 estuaries from Miriam Vale to Rainbow Beach provides even more compelling evidence to scrap the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam in south-east Queensland.

The detailed study conducted by the Burnett Mary Regional Group in collaboration with the Qld EPA examined data collected over two years to come up with its report card . While some of the smaller creeks receive A ratings, the two largest rivers, the Burnett and the Mary, are rated as D- (extreme estuary health risk) and C+(moderate estuary health risk) respectively.

Save the Mary River President Glenda Pickersgill said that comparing the Burnett and the Mary rivers provided a valuable insight into the highly likely impact of the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam.

“In the Burnett and its tribu-taries there are more than 30 dams and weirs, the most recent being the controversial Paradise Dam near Biggenden. This report cuts the speculation and allows us to see the end result of such im-poundments on the estuary.”

“While the Traveston Environ-mental Impact Study claims that downstream impacts would be minimal, this report, by examin-ing the track record for the heavily impounded Burnett, clearly finds otherwise.”

“The cumulative effects of how we treat or overuse a river show up in its estuary and it‟s to be hoped the government will heed this warn-ing,” Ms Pickersgill said.

Chairman of the Greater Mary Association, Darryl Stewart said that one of the recommendations for ongoing management of the Mary estuary is to ensure it “has an adequate environmental flow allocation".

The Mary Basin Water Resource Plan that the Queensland Government rely so heavily on in their justification for the proposed dam does not consider environmental flow to the estuary. In fact if the dam does go ahead, based on the Government's own figures, flows to the estuary could stop for more than six months. And this would be operating in accordance with the Water Re-source Plan. It is just totally irre-sponsible!"

"The Mary estuary should not be viewed in isolation, its waters intermingle with and nourish the internationally recognised Ramsar wetlands, the Great Sandy Strait and the World Heritage listed marine environment of Fraser Island.”

There is a petition from dam op-ponents going to federal parlia-ment calling for an independent assessment of the impacts of pro-posed Traveston Crossing Dam on the estuary.

“The government has a chance to learn from the Burnett. They've always been gung-ho in their as-sertion that a dam at Traveston Crossing would have minimal downstream impacts. Gathering this data from the Burnett should put an end to that,” said Mr Stew-art. The real question, though, is whether the Premier and her Sus-tainability Minister are listening".

Joint press release, GMA and Save the Mary River Coordinating Group

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 05:29:00 +0000

Dugong Candle Spectacular!

The plight of dugongs was spectacularly highlighted in Hervey Bay on June 6 for World Environment Day.

Our Dugong - Yuwang’kan is the latest public candle installation by the Art for Earth team, in collaboration with the Mary River campaign, following the success of Dok’ku at Tandora homestead in June 2008.

At Dayman Park this year, hundreds of supporters young and old, gathered before sunset to help light 4,000 candles, creating a giant glowing image of a dugong family feeding on seagrass.

Footage of the display was taken from the air, and participants were delighted when sky-divers dropped over the site, filming the spectacle as they descended. A short documentary of the event is soon to be released. So stay tuned!

The Greater Mary Association (GMA) was a project partner for the event in the hope of raising awareness about dugong populations in the Mary River estuary and the potential threat the proposed dam would have on seagrass – the food supply for this vulnerable species.

Under the EPBC Act, Minister Garrett is obligated to consider the impact of the proposed dam on dugong populations in the Great Sandy Strait and Hervey Bay.

QWIPL has conducted no analysis of how a dam on the Mary would affect the characteristics of estuarine waters and sediment which determine the survival of seagrass pastures.

Check out the GMA photo gallery for pictures of this event!

Go to: www.picasaweb.google.com/greatermary and click on the Our Dugong – Yuwang’kan album link.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:45:00 +0000

Biosphere Success!

The Great Sandy region was today declared as a Biosphere reserve.

At its meeting in Korea, UNESCO’s International Co-ordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere program today resolved to accept the nomination.

The decision means that residents of Gympie, Maryborough, Hervey Bay, and nearby areas including Fraser Island now live in the “Great Sandy Biosphere” reserve.

The 370 page nomination was submitted to UNESCO in September last year by the Burnett Mary Regional Group after approval from all levels of government.

Chairman of the Group, Russell Stewart, said he was delighted with the success of the nomination.

“It’s a real coup for our region and for Australia,” he said.

“It gives worldwide recognition of the outstanding natural beauty and high levels of biodiversity that we sometimes take for granted.”

The International Co-ordinating Council considered 35 nominations from throughout the world, but the Great Sandy Biosphere was the only one from Australia in this round.

Mr Stewart said that although the nomination process was a big job, the real challenge will be to implement the program.

“We now have to keep our promises and make sure the Great Sandy Biosphere becomes a model for sustainability.”

Mr Stewart said in the long term, the Man and the Biosphere program could expand in Australia.

“Our Group has a vision of a “green belt” of Biospheres across Eastern Queensland and Northern New South Wales, each with its own unique character, but working together towards sustainability,” he said.

Mr Stewart said the Group would move quickly to commence the implementation of the Biosphere program.

“To make it work, we will need to build on the trust and support already given to the nomination, especially from industry groups, tourism bodies, councils and community members.”

The decision has been welcomed by international conservation organisation Fauna and Flora International.

Mark Rose, CEO of Fauna & Flora International said “This award puts the Great Sandy firmly on the global conservation map.”

“From Humpback whales to Cooloola monsters, the new Biosphere is a jewel in the crown of Australia’s natural wonders and Fauna & Flora International congratulates the team behind the bid.”

Media contact: Communications Officer Carl Moller 07 41812999 or 0447550199 or carl.moller@bmrg.org.au

Chairman Russell Stewart 0415 672 558

High resolution photos and a map can be found at the following web address: www.sharky-web.com/bmrg/Biosphere/

DVD footage of the Biosphere region is also available.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 05:14:00 +0000

Dam Opposition Still Well and Truly Afloat!

For a community that Government sources claim is starting to accept a dam, Mary Valley residents and others were showing no sign of it today.

Three years to the day since Peter Beattie’s shock announcement of plans to build a large dam at on the Mary River at Traveston crossing, several hundred canoeists and supporters turned out to a “floatilla” to show their energy for battle was undiminished. Paddlers were shown lungfish breeding sites and turtle nesting sandbanks before taking part in ceremony, celebrations, speeches and entertainment.

“Today we are celebrating our community’s resilience” said Save the Mary River Co-ordinating Group President Glenda Pickersgill. “We’re celebrating that we have dug our heels in and mounted a very strong case against damming this river.”

“Peter Beattie may have called it ‘hardly pristine’, Anna Bligh may say it’s been damaged by farming, but the real test has to be what lives in there now and with a number of unique species, this is pretty impressive. International turtle experts are even coming to regard the Mary as “ the turtle river”.

“This is why Premier Bligh was so keen not to make mention of the dam at her recent election launch. The irony is that as soon as she was elected, she claimed a mandate to build it. Many in Brisbane remember her ‘delay’ announcement and think it’s on hold,” Ms Pickersgill said.

This was the third “floatilla” on the river. After the first in 2006, Greens Senator Bob Brown told opponents to prepare for a long battle. When he visited the area in 2007, Roberto Epple of the European Rivers Network said to expect maybe a seven-year battle. From the looks of it, both pieces of advice have been well-heeded.

Dam opponents heard today of a ‘milestone’ legal challenge to the Paradise Dam fishway which will be heard in the Federal Court in September. The case, mounted by the Wide Bay Burnett Conservation Council and a coalition of Environment groups is significant as the Paradise fishway is intended as the model for use on Traveston Dam, should it go ahead.

“We’ve already won this on the science,” says Glenda, “and it’s defeating itself on the economics. Sometime soon the penny will drop for this government and they’ll realize they can’t cry poor to nurses and teachers and public servants wanting better conditions while they pour more money into the black hole that is the Traveston Crossing Dam proposal.”

Contacts: Glenda Pickersgill 07 54843150 Victor Hill mb 0407754925 Steve Posselt mb 043 813-8982. Photo by Tilly Hinton

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:29:00 +0000

BATTLE FOR THE MARY

Save the Mary supporters and friends will take to their kayaks on Sunday, April 26 to mark 3 years of their fight against the controversial Traveston Dam. Once again the river will come alive with colorful kayaks and canoes, traveling downstream through the area proposed for the dam wall and ending at the Traveston Crossing Bridge.

Save the Mary Spokeperson Victor Hill said the day was to celebrate the resilience of the local community and to recognise the support from individuals and groups both throughout Australia and overseas. As the “battle” entered its fourth year, Mr Hill said it was timely to remember the observation of Roberto Epple of the European Rivers Network who said that on average, it took around seven years to stop a dam.

“Greens Leader Bob Brown also advised it would be a long fight,” Ms Pickersgill said, “and we’re more than ready for that.”

“Twelve months ago, Murray/Darling kayaker Steve Posselt was half way through his “Don’t Murray the Mary” trip. Since then he’s paddled several thousand letters to Peter Garrett in Sydney and has just released his book ‘Cry me a River’. Steve will be back with us on the day,” Ms Pickersgill said.

The “ floatilla” will start at 9am but Ms Pickersgill advised allowing plenty of time to get canoes in to the water.

Entry point is at 1865 Mary Valley Rd (as for previous floatillas). The “floatilla” will reach Traveston Crossing Bridge at around 11am and live entertainment, information and food will be available there until mid-afternoon.

STMRCG Media Contacts: Glenda Pickersgill mb 0411 443 589 Victor Hill mb 0407754925 Steve Posselt mb 043 813-8982.

Additional information:

Colour flyer: http://www.savethemaryriver.com/drpl/sites/default/files/Battle for the Mary

Registration form: http://www.savethemaryriver.com/drpl/sites/default/files/3rd Anniversary Canoe Floatilla registration.pdf

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 08:40:00 +0000

Love, Mary launched in Brisbane

Jerry Coleby-Williams.

It was standing room only as more than a hundred people packed the Avid Reader Bookshop in West End on Thursday night for the launch of “Love, Mary”.

The event proved to be something of a political milestone with the book being jointly launched by Greens MP Ronan Lee and the LNP’s Shadow Minister for Sustainability, David Gibson.

That the launch took place in the Premier’s own electorate of South Brisbane, with local Greens candidate Gary Kane in attendance, the issue of the Traveston dam is planting more than a toehold in Brisbane.

Jerry Colbey-Williams, MC for the event, introduced an entertaining and impressive line up of speakers commending the book, including Kayak4Earth, Steve Posselt and Gubbi Gubbi Elder, Dr. Eve Fesl.

Author and project Co-ordinator Adele Coombs and graphic designer Glenbo Craig thanked the host of people involved in writing, editing and preparing the book in under six weeks. Adele said the book was “a vibrant call to arms” which has already commenced being spread throughout Australia.

Ms. Coombs said one of her main inspirations for the book were the words of Bob Brown at the Get Up Climate Torch Relay held in September this year.

“Senator Brown had said that day, if all 22 million Australians knew what damage was being proposed on the Mary River they would stand up and stop this dreadful dam. That got us thinking about other ways to get the message out,” said Ms. Coombs.

Young Angus Robinson of Kandanga who had celebrated his twelfth birthday on the day of the dam announcement just over two and a half years ago, spoke passionately about the effects of the proposal on his family and community.

Save the Mary River secretary Mr. David Kreutz unveiled plans of the new “Our family… to yours” promotion to make personal links between families in the Mary Valley and Brisbane homes.

‘Make no mistake,” said Mr. Kreutz, “The Traveston dam will be a key issue in the coming state election. ‘Love, Mary’ will be an important tool in that campaign.”

With the launch coinciding with the release of several reports commissioned by federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett all of which are critical of the proposal, it would be difficult to argue otherwise.

Contact: David Kreutz 0418 463 099 / Glenda Pickersgill 0411 443589

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 12:41:00 +0000

The Campaign Continues ... A New Initiative

The campaign to Save the Mary River from the proposed Traveston Dam has just launched an exciting new initiative to inform Brisbane residents about the importance of preserving the river... and why the dam will not solve their water woes.

The initiative, called 'From my family... to yours' encourages people who live near the Mary River (from Maleny to Hervey Bay) to send a copy of the beautiful new book 'Love, Mary' to a randomly selected Brisbane family, along with a letter of explanation.

The letter has a very personal message to people in Brisbane - It’s an appeal to read the book and share it with friends and family. We’re asking them to stand with us and not let the Qld government destroy a vital river in their name.

Brisbane families have changed so much about how they use water. They’ve installed tanks, changed their habits and care deeply about where their water comes from. The fact that they’ve made these changes means the damming of the Mary at Traveston Crossing is not necessary. The popularity of the Traveston Crossing dam proposal has been in steady decline as people in Brisbane gain a greater understanding of the unsuitability of the site for a dam and the environmental consequence.

The Save the Mary River Coordinating Group has committed to pay the postage on all books heading to Brisbane as part of this initiative... so all you need to do is purchase a 'From my family...' pack which includes a copy of the book, the letter, a pre-paid envelope, and a random page of addresses from the Brisbane White Pages.

You can order the packs online at www.savethemaryriver.com/shop , or by visiting the Kandanga No Dam Info Centre beside the historic Kandanga Railway Station (ph. 07 5488 4800).

Many of you receiving this email don't live along the Mary River, so please feel free to forward it to friends or associates who do, who may be interested to take part in this fun and novel project to send our message loud and clear to Brisbane.

Cheers,
Arkin
www.stoppress.com.au

activism in pictures...

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 12:12:00 +0000

Book Launch in Brisbane ... December 4

The Mary River now has its own book to share its story as one of the last remaining rivers still flowing relatively freely in south-east Queensland. Although the dam proposal has now been ‘delayed’, this book will continue the momentum of the campaign to save the Mary River, aiming to stop the proposed dam completely.

Book creators Adele Coombs and Glen Craig have designed ‘Love, Mary’ as a vibrant ‘call to arms’ which will be distributed across Australia. ‘This book tells stories of the Mary River’s endangered creatures like the lungfish and Mary River turtle alongside stories of real people from communities along the river,’ says Adele. ‘We want people to know there is far too much to lose if the proposed dam goes ahead. We are calling people across the country to stand with us to stop a destructive dam on the Mary.’

Book designer Glen Craig believes in the value of a book that can be held in the hand. ‘Although digital technology can be amazing, this is something tangible and compelling which can be touched, and can touch the heart’, says Glen. ‘It is essential that we reach people’s hearts as well as minds, in order to ask them to join with us to make sure this river keeps flowing to the sea.’

'Love, Mary’ is written as a love letter from the Mary River, filled with stories of the river’s life-giving journey from the Sunshine Coast hinterland to the Great Sandy Strait near Fraser Island. Stunning images have been donated by photographers including Arkin Mackay, Kevin Coppalotti, Stewart Riddell and the Gympie Times. This book tells the truth about the shallow dam proposal, failed large dams and fish ways in south-east Queensland, and the Mary River’s crucial freshwater flows to the Great Sandy Strait.

The official Book Launch of ‘Love, Mary’ will be held in West End, Brisbane at ‘The Avid Reader’ bookshop on the 4th of December at 6pm, where Mary Valley MP David Gibson along with Greens MP Ronan Lee will launch the book. There will also be launch events in Gympie, Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Kandanga and Maleny.

Sponsorship has funded printing costs for the book, and it is supported by the Save the Mary River Coordinating Group.

This is your invitation to attend a launch near you... please feel free to circulate this email widely.

If you can't make it to a launch... or are just too impatient to wait that long, you can order a copy online at www.savethemaryriver.com/shop or drop by the Kandanga No Dam Info Centre and pick one up.

Cheers,
Arkin

Upcoming Events:
Noosa Book Preview 28th November, Noosa National Parks Association Environment Centre 11.15am
Official Launch Brisbane 4th December, Avid Reader Bookshop, West End 6pm
Hervey Bay Book Preview 8th December Urangan Community Centre, 6.30pm
Maryborough Book Preview 9th December Maryborough Town Hall, 6.30
Kandanga Book Preview 10th December, Kandanga Hall, 6.30
Gympie and Maleny Previews to be advised.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 12:37:00 +0000

Postponement last nail in coffin of Traveston Crossing dam proposal

The Greater Mary Association were today ecstatic at the announcement by Premier Bligh that the proposed Traveston Crossing dam would be delayed, but cautioned that opponents to the dam need to remain vigilant and continue to pressure the Queensland ALP to can the dam forever.

"The Coordinator General's recommendations to the Queensland Government are a clear indication that the proposed Traveston Crossing dam has big problems. This is the last nail in the coffin for the proposal. All that remains is the burial," said Darryl Stewart, Chair of the Greater Mary Association, the organization representing communities in the lower Mary River and Great Sandy Strait estuary.

"We've argued all along that key mitigation measures for the proposed dam are untested and will not come close to reversing the damage the proposed dam would do to the Mary River ecosystems and local communities. Nothing is going to change in several years, it will still be a flawed proposal with major economic and social and environmental impacts. The only way to avoid these impacts is to can the dam forever.

According to the Greater Mary Association, the Queensland Government and the proponent Queensland Water Infrastructure Pty Lt has sort to side step the downstream impacts of the proposed dam since it was announced in April 2006. The Premier's announcement has not included any mention of more attention being paid to downstream and estuarine impacts. Her comments have related specifically to the environmental rehabilitation of the dam site.

"Despite what the Premier implies, the fact remains that research by international water experts has revealed that the proposed Traveston Crossing dam is not needed. Evidence to support this position is there in black in white in Queensland Water Commission reports," explained Greater Mary Association Research Coordinator Tanzi Smith.

"We completely reject Premier Bligh's suggestion that the people of SEQ think this dam is needed. She has no research to back up this statement. As the Premier herself noted in parliament today, people's attitudes to water have changed. The little research the Queensland Government has done supports this view and gives even more weight to our argument that the dam is not needed," added Ms Smith.

Mr Stewart called on Anna Bligh to show real leadership and acknowledge that the proposal is fatally flawed and consign it to the history books. He said, "It is cruel of her to leave the affected community in limbo. Planting a few trees now instead of later isn't going to make the proposal viable."

The Greater Mary Association also extends a huge thank you and congratulations to all it's members and supporters and the role their efforts have had on this decision.

"Let's celebrate, but let's also keep up the fight and make sure this dam is damned forever," urged Mr Stewart.

For further information contact:
Darryl Stewart 07 4129 6190 or 042 729 6190
Tanzi Smith 040 584 8375

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 01:26:00 +0000

Campaign Paddles into Sydney Harbour

A crowd of media and supporters gathered in Sydney on Saturday afternoon, to welcome protest-kayaker Steve Posselt, after his long paddle down the coast from Queensland. Steve’s mission was to deliver several thousand letters of protest to Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett about the proposed Traveston Crossing Dam.

Minister Garrett was there at the Man-o-War wharf on the Botanic Garden side of the Sydney Opera House to greet Steve as he arrived with the protest letters.

Glenda Pickersgill from the Save the Mary River Group, who was in the crowd of welcomers, said, “It's not a small feat to paddle all the way to Sydney from Queensland and we thank Steve for the huge personal effort."

"Dams are a risky investment in a drying climate," said Jeff Angel, Director, Total Environment Centre. "They produce hundreds of tonnes of carbon-intensive methane from flooded vegetation and this contributes even more to climate change."

Cate Faehrmann, Executive Director, Nature Conservation Council, was also there to welcome Steve on his arrival. "More rain falls on Sydney and Brisbane each year than the total water used,” she said. “We need to capture it with rainwater tanks and stormwater harvesting. Dams are not a smart solution to water shortages in Sydney, Brisbane or anywhere else."

"We hope that Minister Garrett will reject the dam," said Kate Noble from the Australian Conservation Foundation. "The Traveston Crossing Dam will have a devastating impact on the Mary River and on species like the Lungfish that should be protected by Australia's environmental laws.”

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 06:45:00 +0000

Save the Mary River Campaign Greeted by Crowds in Canberra

Mary River campaigner and 'Mud Marathon' runner Lindsay 'Butch' Titmarsh carried the GetUp Climate Torch the last 1km leg of its national relay to a waiting crowd of hundreds outside Parliament House in Canberra today.

The GetUp Climate Torch visited the Mary River in September this year drawing national attention to the campaign against the proposed Traveston Crossing dam.

Mr. Titmarsh first carried the torch on completion of his 'Double Mud Marathon' an 81kilometre run following the most direct route from the Southern to Northern headland of the Mary River at its mouth near Hervey Bay.

Mr. Titmarsh said that being invited to carry the torch at its grand finale in Canberra was a pretty big deal.

"I represented thousands of people who have been involved in the Climate Torch campaign as the torch made its way around Australia.

"This was the first demonstration I've actually been to. For me to be invited to Canberra, out of all the groups and issues represented by this torch, has been one of the highlights of my life" said Mr. Titmarsh.

Mr. Titmarsh, who's family have lived at 'Tandora' the last downstream property on the Mary River for the last 100 years, is deeply concerned about the impact a dam on the Mary River will have on the health of the Great Sandy Strait and Hervey Bay.

The Mary River estuary, a Ramsar and World Heritage wetland is home to dozens of endangered and threatened species including dugong, dolphins, turtles, migratory birds and whales.

This week, campaigners from the Save the Mary River group and Greater Mary Association will bring new research about the potential downstream impacts of the proposed dam to the attention of the Federal Government. The campaigners claim the Queensland Government is ignoring important research, including that related to lack of fresh water flows and hyper-salinity in Hervey Bay.

A decision is expected later this year by Peter Garrett, Minister for the Environment, pending his review of the Queensland Government's report and Environmental Impact Statement.

Photos: Lindsay Titmarsh carrying the torch (top); Lindsay with fellow campaigners Anne Stephens, Glenda Pickersgill and Tanzi Smith.

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 05:55:00 +0000

Chronicle 6/10/08

Mary River myths busted

Myths about the Mary River were passionately 'busted' yesterday by environmental experts at the Hervey Bay Boat Club.

The River, the Bay and the Strait forum was aimed at getting more discussion and debate flowing throughout the Fraser Coast community about the proposed Traveston Crossing dam.

One guest speaker, scientist Steve Burgess, dismissed several myths which suggested the Mary River had plenty of flow and would not be significantly impacted by the proposed $2 billion dam.

"The government completely misses the point when it comes to what the dam would mean for the river downstream," he said.

"The Mary already suffers from low flows and runs into severe ecological problems.

"In dry times most of the land area downstream of the dam site actually takes more water from the river that what it puts back in. Damming the south east corner of the catchment would be catastrophic."

The 80-strong gathering also heard talks on the effects of climate change on river systems, new research on increasing hypersalinity levels in Hervey Bay, as well as the impact the dam could have on the migratory birds, seagrass, dugongs and vulnerable fish and turtle species which depended on the Great Sandy Strait and Mary River to thrive.

Guest speakers urged Fraser Coast residents to take their concerns about the proposed dam to local governments.

____________________________________________________

Salinity levels already unacceptable in Bay

The waters of Hervey Bay are already experiencing high salinity levels because of low Mary River runoff, low rainfall and high evaporation, an oceanographer has found.

If the proposed Traveston Dam foes ahead the salinity levels could become even worse.

"High salinity and variable freshwater flows have considerable implications for the marine environment, aquaculture and fisheries production," said Joachim Ribbe, an associate professor from the University of Southern Queensland.

"Obviously, during years of drought less freshwater is entering Hervey Bay and hyper salinity is more severe. This then impacts on marine environmental conditions."

Mr Ribbe said that during his two year investigative study he fould high salinity at Hervey Bay before a storm in June this year.

"After the storm the Mary River run-off was 300,000 mega litres. The rainfall and river runoff combined eroded the near shore high salinity."

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 08:38:00 +0000

'Save Sandy Strait' Knitted River

The Mary River GetUp! Climate Torch Relay culminated in a massive human sign on the beach at Dayman Park on Sunday, September 7.

The 477m knitted scarf created by the people of the Mary Valley, was used to weave together people from the length of the Mary River to create the words. The message aimed to symbolise the connection between the proposed dam and the Great Sandy Strait.

Thanks so much to all who volunteered to help and all who formed part of the sign!

For more images go to:

http://picasaweb.google.com/greatermary/SaveSandyStraitKnittedRiver#

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 02:02:00 +0000

Indigenous Affairs Minister Snubs Butchulla Concerns

Representatives of the Butchulla community left the Queensland Government's Community Cabinet Meeting in Hervey Bay on Sunday feeling offended and ignored by the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Lindy Nelson-Carr.

A formal delegation of three, including an Owens Clan Elder, met with the Minister to voice their concerns about the Traveston Crossing Dam proposal and the impacts it will have on Butchulla cultural heritage, but the Minister was not willing to discuss the issue.

"She dismissed our meeting, claiming the issue was not part of her portfolio," said Elisabeth Berry of the Greater Mary Association, who took part in the delegation.

"We didn't want to discuss the dam with her as such. We wanted to know why Butchulla people have been excluded from the consultation process, and why the Queensland Government has considered them irrelevant to the cultural heritage of the Mary River. The Butchulla see the Mary as the life-blood of their country, so this exclusion has been a grave insult to them. Even if the Minister could not answer these questions, she could at least have offered to ask them on our behalf.

"She showed no concern that the people she is employed to represent are hurting over this issue, and made no attempt to provide them with assistance. She simply referred us to Minister Craig Wallace because his portfolio covers native title issues."

The response left Owens Clan Elder Joyce Smith, who had earlier been called upon by Premier Anna Bligh to welcome the cabinet to Hervey Bay, feeling ignored. "I felt left out. Not good. It shouldn't have been like that," she said.

The Minister's attitude was not a complete surprise to Butchulla spokesperson Norman Barney, "but it still makes us feel like we're not respected, and that's not a very good thing for a Minister of Indigenous Affairs to do,' he said. "It makes us lose respect for that person. And that is certainly not good."

The Butchulla community is concerned about the impacts a dam on the Mary River would have on the Great Sandy Strait, and how changes in the river would affect their sacred sites and traditional practices. They believe a reduction in river flows would be devastating for both the estuary and Butchulla culture in general.

"That the Butchulla feel their very culture is threatened by the proposed dam is a very serious matter," Ms Berry said. "It means there may be serious ramifications within the Butchulla community, both culturally and socially, if the project goes ahead. Such a level of concern must be addressed by the Government. It must be taken seriously."

noreply@blogger.com (ourgreatsandy.com) — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 01:23:00 +0000

We Socked It To 'em Again - in Hervey Bay!

Long-time campaigners against the TCD were overwhelmed by the turn out for the protest outside the ALP Community Cabinet Meeting in Hervey Bay on Sunday - our second rally this month.

Hundreds of people, young and old and from near and far, gathered outside the building at Wide Bay TAFE where Premier Bligh and her Ministers later met with deputations from the Fraser Coast community on a wide variety of issues. Ms Bligh and Andrew MacNamara (Minister for Sustainability and Climate Change and Hervey Bay MP) were escorted inside the venue by several uniformed and plainclothed police as the crowd vented their rage, screaming anti-dam sentiments at them. They also demanded Bligh "Sack Any Mac" (MacNamara) because he has failed so diabolically to represent his electorate on this issue.

Above: Bligh arriving.

Deputy Premier Paul Lucas didn't have it any easier. Someone stuck a 'NO DAM' sticker on his folder and he was quick to screw it up and throw it to the ground. (During the deputations Lucas was caught saying that water flowing out to sea is "wasted") But more on that in a future blog entry!!