Tarkine campaign steps up

Issue 

Tarkine campaign gathers strengthBy Ben Courtice HOBART An extraordinary meeting of the state Liberal government's house committee looks set to ban protests from the grounds of Parliament House. This follows a vigil and rally to save the Tarkine wilderness on October 18. The Tarkine Tigers set up camp on the Parliament lawns after a 300-strong rally organised by the Wilderness Society (TWS) was called as part of the ongoing campaign to save the Tarkine wilderness in the state's north west. While the greatest threat to the area is the construction of the road, TWS campaigner Geoff Law said that the forestry industry is now looming as an equally serious threat. Aboriginal activist Jim Everett said that while he welcomed the handing back of several sacred sites, this was tokenism given that the Groom government was allowing other areas such as the Tarkine traditionally Aboriginal land to be destroyed. Tasmanian Green Party leader Peg Putt told the rally that the government had begun work on a road through a world heritage area in the Snowy Mountains, south of Hobart. Meanwhile, 40 protesters blockaded work on October 14 on the Tarkine road. Three activists were arrested, and one, who had chained himself to a machine, narrowly escaped being hurt when the driver started it and swung him around in the air before letting him down. urther actions are planned across Australia for October 26. The Tarkine Tigers can be contacted at Tarkine House on 341 103.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.