The Tasmanian Greens today warmly applauded Federal Environment and Heritage Minister, Peter Garrett’s recognition of the outstanding natural and cultural heritage values of the Tarkine and his decision to exercise his powers under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) to include the threatened wilderness on the National Heritage List.

Greens Environment and Heritage spokesperson Cassy O’Connor MP said Mr Garrett’s announcement is another nail in the coffin of the Bartlett Government’s divisive, destructive Tarkine loop road proposal.

“Today’s announcement of an emergency heritage listing for the Tarkine is simply fantastic news. It reinforces that this extraordinary wilderness is a place of outstanding natural and cultural heritage values, and it exposes the patent stupidity of the Forestry Tasmania-conceived loop road being pushed by the Bartlett Government,” Ms O’Connor said.

“Peter Garrett clearly understands that the Tarkine is a place worth protecting. David Bartlett and his chief loop road advocate, Bryan Green, clearly do not. They appear blind to the values of the area their road threatens.”

“The Federal Minister has pointed out that today’s announcement is not a decision to reject the loop road proposal, but it does add a vital extra layer of protection should the proposed road be formally assessed under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. “

“The Tarkine is a wilderness unlike any other on earth. It is rich in biodiversity and ancient landscapes, as well as being regarded as ‘one of the world’s great archaeological sites’, with 244 recorded Aboriginal sites including rock art and ceremonial stone arrangements. It also contains a rich vein of more recent European heritage.”

“There is no question the Tarkine should be protected and preserved for current and future generations. Today’s announcement also strengthens the case for the establishment of a Tarkine National Park as an iconic wilderness to be protected for its natural and cultural heritage values.”

“A well resourced Tarkine National Park, coupled with an intensive marketing strategy promoting a genuine wilderness brand would also help to deliver long term sustainable jobs’ growth to the North West just as the establishment of the Franklin-Wild Rivers National Park has been an economic blessing for Strahan and the West Coast,” Ms O’Connor said.
Cassy O’Connor MP Greens Environment and Heritage spokesperson