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Ready to help With their trademark orange overalls and readiness to swing into action when disaster strikes, SES volunteers are a welcome sight for those in need in difficult times. Local units are now on the search for people ready to join the thousands of volunteers who form the organisation’s backbone. ■ Full story: Page 12
Minister stands firm By Benjamin Millar The state government has refused to back down on its approval for the dumping of West Gate Tunnel soil in Ravenhall despite Melton council launching a Supreme Court challenge against the decision. Last month Star Weekly reported that the council has taken legal action over state Planning Minister Richard Wynne approving Cleanaway to receive and store contaminated soil from the $6.8 billion project at its Ravenhall tip. The council had earlier written to the
minister asking that he reverse the decision to bypass the usual process for the necessary planning scheme changes. In a response to the council that was tabled at last week’s council meeting, Mr Wynne indicated that he had no intention of reconsidering his decision to approve the necessary planning scheme amendment for Cleanaway to accept spoil contaminated with PFAS and asbestos. “The West Gate Tunnel Project is a project of state significance, and my published reasons for intervention outline my reasons for not giving notice of the amendment,”
he wrote. Responding to suggestions he had failed to adequately consider the impact on the surrounding community, Mr Wynne argued that the views of third parties who may be affected by the amendment “are reasonably well-known” and have been considered. He outlined his concerns that advertising the amendment, reviewing submissions and convening a planning panel hearing would result in further project delays. “In light of the current and predicted economic environment, the state-significant benefits of the West Gate Tunnel Project are needed urgently,” he wrote.
“The comments of the community were not ignored. “A number of the conditions included in the incorporated documents were included as a direct response to my consultations with your council and the comments of the community and key stakeholders.” The letter indicated the minister was “unable” to meet with Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik to discuss the matter. Melton council chief executive Kel Tori said the council was unable to make any further comment as the matter was currently before the courts.
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