Media release – Bob Brown Foundation, 5 November 2024
Logging protest in swift parrot breeding habitat as birds return to nest in Tasmania
Farmer turned climate activist – Anthony Houston 72 is right now perched high above a logging machine, sitting in a chair locked onto a 5m monopole that is suspended by 4 machines.
A protest is underway this morning in a forest in southern Tasmania, in the catchment of the Denison River on the side of Barnback flowing down to the beautiful Huon River.
“The logging of this forest is criminal and must be stopped today. We are here to defend the swift parrot forests after they were sighted here this year and now it’s being flattened by logging. Three swift parrot nests were recorded active among the blue gums as recently as last year’s 2023 swift parrot season,” said Erik Hayward, Bob Brown Foundation Campaigner.
“The habitat and feeding grounds of these forests are vital for the survival of the critically endangered swift parrot. Today we are here holding off the destruction of the forests vital for the survival of the critically endangered swift parrot. Multiple nests in this forest provided a haven for swift parrots feeding in the same blue gums that are now being turned into woodchips,” said Erik Hayward from this morning’s protest.
“Native forest logging in Tasmania’s forests must end to ensure the survival of endangered species. There are two known Tasmanian wedge tailed eagle nests within 1km of this coupe, yet despite seasonal breeding rules, logging continues loud and apace. Not today, the government is reminded today that logging destroys wildlife habitat and our protest gives them the option to remove the destructive logging machines from these forests.”
