Newsletter item – Tasmanian National Parks Association, 6 February 2024
Lake Malbena Update – Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment required
On 13 November 2023 Minister Plibersek issued yet another Extension of Time for her decision on EPBC approval of the controversial standing camp proposal on Halls Island. Unlike the previous extensions this one includes a request for further information, “a thorough Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment report”.
The report requires far more than just a listing of known Aboriginal artefacts. It must cover all locations that might be affected by the project, including from helicopter noise, encompass all elements of Aboriginal cultural landscape values, including intangible cultural heritage elements and include consultation with local indigenous communities.
The preparation of such a report will require the expenditure of substantial time and effort by the proponent with no guarantee that it will lead to approval. A likely outcome is that the Malbena proposal will remain in limbo indefinitely while the Minister awaits the submission of this report.
The proponent does not appear to have undertaken any maintenance on the heritage listed historic hut on Halls Island so its condition is likely to deteriorate further while the future of the development proposal remains unresolved.
For background to this issue see here.
Featured image above of Hall’s Island hut courtesy Grant Dixon.
