NEWS DESK
Feds under pressure to back AGL refusal Keith Platt keith@mpnews.com.au WHILE celebrations continue over state Planning Minister Richard Wynne’s rejection of AGL’s proposed import gas terminal at Crib Point, those opposed to the plan will feel more secure once the decision is also backed by the federal government. Mr Wynne’s decision was based on environmental grounds and to be set in motion must now be endorsed by several state departments and the federal Environment Minister, Sussan Ley. “Minister Wynne’s assessment reflects the overwhelming and sustained opposition from a broad alliance of groups including scientists, residents, tourism and fishing businesses, and our clients,” Environmental Justice Australia lawyer Virginia Trescowthick said. “We congratulate all of those involved for their perseverance and dedication. “We will be closely monitoring the federal government’s response to Minister Wynne’s announcement to ensure that their decision is consistent with the minister’s assessment and the overwhelming community opposition to the project.” Immediately after Mr Wynne’s decision was announced, Flinders MP Greg Hunt said it was “welcome news” for the Mornington Peninsula and “thanked” the those involved in the years’ long fight against AGL’s plan. “Throughout this fight, I have been clearly, absolutely, unequivocally opposed to the AGL gas plant in Westernport,” Mr Hunt, a former environment minister, said. “Last year I took community concerns directly
to Minister Wynne, to express the strong and consistent objection from the local community. This followed multiple letters and correspondence with his office on behalf of my community.” Mr Hunt then took a swipe at the state government saying AGL’s plan to import gas “was always a solution” to a problem the government had caused with its now-cancelled moratorium on conventional gas exploration”. Mr Hunt’s did not respond by deadline to two emails from The News asking if he would be urging the federal government to follow Mr Wynne’s lead and refuse to back AGL’s plan for Crib Point. Another lawyer from Environmental Justice Australia Nick Witherow said the federal government could not step in and overturn Mr Wynne’s decision. If would open itself up to an appeal under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act if it did decide to support AGL. It would also have to convince the state government and several of its agencies to go against Mr Wynne’s decision. “We expect all the state agencies to fall into line [with Mr Wynne’s decision] and expect the federal government will too,” Mr Witherow said. Ms Trescowthick said the EJA believed the AGL refusal “is only the second time a proposal has been rejected by a minister under the environmental effects statement (EES) legislation”. “The minister’s reasons for rejection are consistent with the issues we raised … and speak to how inappropriate this proposal was. It should never have progressed to this stage, especially given this is an internationally recognised wetland under the Ramsar Convention.”
A NEW ramp ensures accessibility to one of Presentation Family Centre’s six self-contained houses at Balnarring. Picture: Supplied
Time out for those in need SINCE 1989 families, carers and vulnerable children needing a short break to get away from it all have been staying in six self-contained houses at Balnarring since The Presentation Family Centre, in Balnarring Beach Road, offers those in need “an opportunity to relax and refresh their spirits in a peaceful environment”, according to general manager Rachel Connor. The property, which includes a playground, activity centre and grounds, is a seven-minute walk to the beach. “Our guests are primarily families and carers from across metropolitan Melbourne and Victoria who may find it difficult to access an affordable holiday or find a peaceful location for respite,” Ms Connor said. “Guests are often referred by community service organisations, government agencies, schools or hospitals. They may hold a Health Care Card, while many are supported by the
National Disability Insurance Scheme. Everyone in need is welcome.” Ms Connor provided the following quote as being a “typical” comment from a guest: “Our family has not been on a holiday for many years. We have been through much stress and it was like a dream to have this special time out from the world in such a relaxing environment.” During the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown PFC completed an accessible bathroom and built a ramp to fit out a second house for people with disabilities. PFC receives no regular finance from government and relies on donations and grants to subsidise the rent paid by guests. “We rely on volunteers to assist with working bees, fundraising, open days and barbecues,” Ms Connor said. To inquire about staying at PFC or make a tax deductible donation email: info@pfc.org.au
As the highest performing secondary school on the Mornington Peninsula, Dromana College will continue to work tirelessly to develop and consolidate the many exemplary educational programs on offer. With outstanding facilities, a committed professional staff and a caring school community, students are challenged to explore their interests and talents to achieve their personal best.
Open Night Tuesday 27 April 2021 at 6.00pm ‘Lessons come from the journey …not the destination’ ‘A high performing provider of education on the Mornington Peninsula’
Tours available Tuesday mornings at 9:30am. Bookings online at www.dsc.vic.edu.au. 110 Harrisons Road, Dromana, Victoria 3936 Entry via Old White Hill Road
E: dromana.sc@education.vic.gov.au W: www.dsc.vic.edu.au
PH: 03 5987 2805
RESPONSIB IL ITY, R ESPECT, INTEGR ITY, PER SON A L BE S T Southern Peninsula News
14 April 2021
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