We chose to move from overseas to Tasmania over a decade ago in order that our children might grow up in a “ clean, green environment” largely free of the environmental smog we had to live with daily in a large, overcrowded city. That decision seemed justified when Tasmania was subsequently voted one of the six best Island destinations in the world by a respected international tourist magazine.
We settled in quickly, opened three new businesses; and were delighted with the educational and sporting opportunities open to our three children. Our standard of living (including housing and health services) was greatly improved and our lifestyle was all we hoped it would be until we became aware of pervasive health issues among neighbours and friends we have made through business, school and sporting contacts. These concerns were only heightened by the Health Minister’s recent, surprisingly candid public comment, that three out of four families in Tasmania experience chronic health issues.
HELLO!
A neighbour with whom I had discussed my concerns then directed me to the “Tasmanian Times” website where this subject was being widely canvassed in December (unfortunately, our local news – media don’t pay it any attention). Articles written by Dr Alison Bleaney and Dr David Obendorf particularly set all our alarm bells ringing!
I cannot understand why the whole issue of public and environmental health in Tasmania isn’t more newsworthy; surely there can’t be many things more important to the citizens of this State than their health, and that of future generations! As a young mother, I’m aghast that business practices in the past (eg burning, spraying) which appear to be contributing to many of the diseases endemic to Tasmania (respiratory, neurological, cancers etc) continue unabated.
And then there’s the real prospect of a giant, toxin-emitting pulp mill in a densely populated river valley; and our politicians and public health officials seem comfortable with that. After all, the AMA calculates that only a couple of hundred extra people will die prematurely over the life of the mill as a result of its adverse environmental affects. So who cares?
It led me to question who would be able to actually do something of note, particularily making our government sit up and listen. An excerpt follows which tells part of Erin Brockovich’s remarkable story: of her commitment to people everywhere largely powerless to halt environmental degradation in regions where businesses and governments collaborate to put profit before the interests of people and the long-term health of that region.
Imagine an entreaty from say, Dr Bleaney to Erin Brockovich to visit our State, and view first-hand our environmental health issues. That would have the immediate affect of focussing world attention on our State, and shining a powerful spotlight into the dark murky recesses of our political-industrial landscape. Is it likely Ms Brockovich would respond to an entreaty from a respected physician and research scientist? Remember that the Tasmanian Devil defines Tasmania in the eyes of many Americans; and given Tassie’s iconic status as an Island tourist destination, anything that threatens these symbols would surely be a powerful lure.
Is there now a case for an SOS (Save Our State) to Ms Brockovich? I believe there are many talented people who would help in formulating a formal, or informal approach to her to come and review the situation for herself. I am sure that prospect would horrify those intent on ignoring the now manifestly real public health issues in Tasmania!
The news articles linked are self-explanatory and bring home to us all the ‘power of one’.
