Internationally acclaimed forest ecologist Professor David Lindenmayer is headline speaker at a public forum in Moruya next Monday, April 4, called to discuss on the future of native forest management on the South Coast.
The forum, titled An Alternative Vision for South Coast Forests, will be held the evening before the NSW Upper House inquiry into the timber industry conducts public hearings at Eurobodalla Council Chambers in Moruya. [1]
“Public attitudes to the management of our native forests are light-years ahead of government policy,” Nature Conservation Council South Coast Community Organiser Wilson Harris said.
“People want their native forests protected to ensure all the incredible wildlife that lives in them are there forever for future generations to enjoy.
“Unfortunately, the government still sees the South Coast’s forests as resources to be mined. The government’s refusal to shift its thinking on forests is a failure imagination.
“Next week’s forum is a chance for the community to imagine a new future for our forests and to share those idea with politicians and policy makers.
“A lot of debate around forests and logging gets bogged down in a lot of negativity. This forum aims to build a positive, sustainable vision for our forests.
“Our public forests belong to us all, so we want as many people as possible to come along to have their voices heard.”
EVENT DETAILS
What: Public forum An Alternative Vision for South Coast Forests
When: 6pm-7.30pm, Monday, April 4
Where: Moruya Golf Club
Cost: FREE
Register: t.ly/nqqk
SPEAKERS
Professor David Lindenmayer: A world-leading expert in forest ecology and resource management, conservation science, and biodiversity conservation.
Fiona McCuaig: Local business operator, owner of the Bodalla Dairy, a member of the Narooma Chamber of commerce and the Nature Coast Marine Group.
Sean Dooley: An avid-birdwatcher and author, Sean is the National Public Affairs Manager of Birdlife Australia, and is the former editor of the magazine Australian Birdlife. Uncle Bunja Smith: Uncle Bunja is a Walbanga Elder of the Yuin nation, with deep roots in the Eurobodalla. He has a strong cultural connection to the sacred places of the region, such as Mumbulla and Gulaga Mountains, and Baranguba (Montague Island).
Joslyn Van Der Moolen: Member of Coastwatchers Association Forest Working Group, Joslyn has been involved in local forest activism for years.
Julie Taylor-Mills: Southern Representative of the Nature Conservation Council Executive. A Meringo local, Julie has passionately fought to protect forests following the 2019-20 bushfires.
REFERENCES
[1] Long-term sustainability and future of the timber and forest products industry, NSW Upper House Committees.