Garrett applauded for dam good decision

The Wilderness Society (Queensland) Inc
Media Release
11 November 2009

The Wilderness Society (Qld) today celebrated the protection of the Mary River and its endangered species following Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett’s decision to veto the controversial Traveston Dam in South-East Queensland.

The Wilderness Society has always opposed the construction of new mega-dams as an outdated approach to water management and a major threat to river health.

Glenn Walker, spokesperson for the Wilderness Society said: “We congratulate Minister Garrett for putting the environment first. This is a victory for environmental law and good science over short-sighted water policy. The impacts of the Traveston Dam on threatened species and the Mary River was always an unacceptable feature of the proposal. This is a damn good decision!”

Minister Garrett’s decision sets an important standard for all Australian governments to live up to. It will have far-reaching implications for how we will protect our environment in the face of climate change and population and development pressures.

“We urge Premier Bligh to explore water supply alternatives that do not create significant environmental damage. The health of our rivers is of critical community concern and dams represent a major threat to them” said Mr Walker.

The Wilderness Society paid tribute to the local Save the Mary River Campaign for their outstanding efforts to help achieve this significant outcome.