Environmental organisations look back at a year of successes and uncertainties ahead

ENVIRONMENTAL groups from Port Stephens gathered in the Tomaree Library on Sunday 1 November for the EcoNetwork networking event, looking back on progress this year.

The most recent achievement has been the successful fight by the Mambo-Wanda Wetlands Conservation Group (MWWCG) to prevent Port Stephens Council from building on the wetlands buffer zone.

The group remains on the lookout for updates, as the council is preparing to review Development Application submissions.

Moving north-east, Wendy Wales from the Denman Aberdeen Muswellbrook Scone Healthy Environment Group (DAMSHEG) has been fighting against MACH Energy’s efforts to extend the life of the Mount Pleasant coal mine, which would release up to 870 million tonnes of greenhouse gases in export markets as a result of coal burning.

The NSW Court of Appeal ruled in favour of DAMSHEG, arguing that coal mines must consider local climate change impacts from pollution.

MACH Energy has appealed the decision in the High Court, with the ruling yet to be determined.

Back in Port Stephens, Ewa Meyer from Renew Hunter shared the progress made in transitioning to green energy, with 1865 rooftop solar installations and 2425 battery installations in the Port Stephens area this year.

Representing Anna Bay and surrounding areas, the South Tomaree Community Association (STCA) has been regularly engaging with the council, as well as organising the Spring into Summer and Cleanup Australia Day events.

“We have been pushing and have worked with council to get a place plan happening, so that our community can determine what Anna Bay is going to be,” said STCA’s Lariane Taylor.

Sue Olssoon, from the Friends of Tomaree National Park, highlighted the extensive bushcare activities that have taken place, including the removal of invasive weeds and the planting of native vegetation.

Unfortunately, despite holding a large number of community events, Friends of Tomaree has been struggling to maintain long-term participation.

Memberships have also been declining for the National Parks Association of NSW, although it still maintains a healthy presence across the state. Some of their current activities include campaigning for additions to the Tomaree National Park, fighting against logging, and government advocacy.

Tomaree Ratepayers & Residents Association has taken an active stance in Local and State Government matters over almost two decades, including parking issues. However, the association is struggling to fill key administrative positions, risking its existence.

“We still have much to do,” said Iain Watts, president of EcoNetwork, reflecting on the many recent achievements as well as the uncertainties that still remain.

By Nico LOMBARDO