Defending Council’s Lake Malbena Decision
The Tasmanian National Parks Association and others have joined as parties to the appeal. We strongly believe that Council's decision to refuse a permit to this development should be upheld by the Tribunal.
Summary of the 2018-19 Tasmanian fire season
Over 200,000 ha was burnt this summer, including about 93,000 ha in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. A number of fire-sensitive areas have been seriously impacted or destroyed. Is this the new norm?
Lake Malbena Development Application rejected
The Development Application for helicopter-accessed tourist accommodation at Lake Malbena, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, was rejected by 6 votes to 3 at the Central Highlands Council meeting on 26th February 2019.
Tourism Master Plan for TWWHA commenced
We welcome, in principle, commencement of work on the long-awaited Tourism Master Plan for the TWWHA but are concerned it will provide further endorsement of the state government’s policy of ‘unlocking’ the TWWHA and avoid any scrutiny of the many tourism proposals already being considered under the Expressions of Interest process.
Lake Malbena development – impact on wilderness
There would be significant loss of wilderness character at Lake Malbena and in the surrounding country if the proposed helicopter-based tourism development proceeds.
More new tourism operations in parks
Three more new tourism operations in parks on Tasmania's east coast have been approved without any public scrutiny via the secretive Expressions of Interest process.
Draft Freycinet Master Plan 2018
Planning should start with consideration of the experience to be provided for visitors and the options available to achieve this. Serious consideration must be given to options beyond simply upgrading infrastructure to cope with ever increasing visitor numbers.
Proposed tourist development at Lake Malbena
With the referral of this development proposal to the Federal Minister for consideration under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act, the full scale of this proposed development has been revealed.
Tasmanian election review & parks-related promises
A remarkable number of parks-related funding pledges were forthcoming during the Tasmanian election campaign. Increased parks' funding is welcome, but several proposals are of concern.
Tasmanian state election update
Wondering where the major political parties stand when it comes to protecting Tasmania's national parks ahead of the 2018 state election? Read our latest assessment.