media release

New ad to fell river red gum fears
31 August 2007

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A newspaper advertisement that dispels the myths about the protection of River Red Gum wetland forests is being launched by Victoria’s key conservation groups today.

The advertisements, to appear in state regional newspapers over the next two weeks, set the record straight on future recreational access to Red Gum forests after misinformation circulated by loggers and other groups.

The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), Friends of the Earth (FoE), Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA) and The Wilderness Society (TWS) are determined that Victorians are not misled during a public submission process to decide the future of the forests.

“These adverts show that fishing, horse riding, vehicles and other activities are all encouraged in proposed National Parks,” VNPA executive director Matt Ruchel said. “They also highlight that camping and firewood collection will be permitted and catered for.”

TWS campaigns manager Gavan McFadzean said much of the incorrect information was being spread by logging groups and vested interests. Mr McFadzean said logging was destroying highly stressed wetland areas and threatening native fauna at a time of intense drought.

“These river wetland forests are worth millions of dollars to regional Victoria from tourism, visitation and recreation, and new National Parks will ensure their protection for our children’s children,” Mr McFadzean said.

As much as 97.5% of the land joining River Red Gum country has been cleared for agriculture since European settlement.

“Red Gum National Parks will protect the natural values people go camping on the Murray to enjoy,’’ FoE Red Gum campaign coordinator Jonathan La Nauze said. “The alternative is that logging and grazing will continue to degrade the bush we all know and love.’’

A draft proposal about the protection of the River Red Gum wetlands was recently released by the Victorian Environment Assessment Council (VEAC) and it is currently taking public submissions on the recommendations.

“The VEAC recommendations provide some hope for the future of these magnificent Red Gums and protects the community's rights to enjoy the area," said ACF's forests campaigner Lindsay Hesketh.

Community members who care about the future of our river forests are encouraged to visit www.saveredgum.org to learn how to lodge a submission to VEAC.

For interview: Jonathan La Nauze, FoE Red Gum campaign coordinator, on 0402 904 251. Media contact: Daniel Clarke on 0407 771 072.