Campaigners are on site to bear witness to the fresh incursion into World Heritage-value wilderness in Tasmania’s Tarkine following the Federal Government’s re-approval of the Nelson River mine.
Vehicles and machinery began moving into the site this morning signalling a re-start of work on the mine. A significant part of the mine is located inside the existing Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area, yet this reserve offers no protection from mining.
“The Tarkine is loved by many as a wild region of diverse landscapes and habitat for threatened species like the Tasmanian devil,” said Vica Bayley, spokesperson for the Wilderness Society. “Places like this are too precious to mine.”
“Independent investigations, including a report by the Australian Heritage Council, have confirmed the Tarkine’s natural and cultural values are significant and should be properly recognised as national and World Heritage.”
Together with Save the Tarkine, campaigners will establish a vigil to monitor construction progress and vehicle movements whilst consideration is given to a further legal challenge to the Government’s re-approval of the mine.
“The Tarkine is a place of extraordinary value and opportunity that needs to be properly respected and protected.
“People will continue to take a stand against mining, promote a vision for protection and express their love for an area that many other countries in the world would conserve and promote as an icon of national pride.
• Scott Jordan: Save the Tarkine commences Nelson Bay River Mine vigil
