Petition to save Silverleaves tabled in parliament
The ‘Save Silverleaves’ petition calling on the Allan Labor Government to urgently fund short term works to save homes from the rapidly eroding shoreline has been tabled in state parliament.
The petition instigated by Silverleaves local Natalie Gray and sponsored by The Nationals’ Melina Bath amassed 4370 signatures in only three weeks, qualifying it for future debate.
Ms Bath also called on Labor’s Minister for the Environment, Hon Steve Dimopoulos to meet with residents.
At a recent meeting with the Member for Bass, Jordan Crugnale, DEECA and Bass Coast Council residents were told there’s now insufficient time to implement geotextile sandbags before April as recommended by Labor’s own report.
Ms Bath said the Allan Government has let down the Silverleaves community.
“The Silverleaves foreshore has been eroding at an alarming rate, and there is every possibility homes will be lost in the absence of state funding for mitigation,” said Ms Bath.
“Residents are acutely aware of the imminent threat to their properties; many lay in fear at night wondering if their homes will fall victim to the sea – they deserve to hear how Labor will protect their estate.”
Ms Bath said if the Allan Government ignored the message to fast track short term erosion mitigation works after hundreds of locals turned up to a January rally, then this petition should jolt it into action.
“Given the predicted disaster happening under Labor’s nose it must listen to locals, release emergency funding and act now.
“Any response other than having the recommended geotextile revetment in place before April is unacceptable.”
“The Silverleaves community is to be congratulated for its support of this important petition, I look forward to representing locals and leading the future debate.
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage coastal erosion and Silverleaves locals are paying the price.”
Caption – The ‘Save Silverleaves’ petition which amassed 4370 signatures in only three weeks was tabled in state parliament by The Nationals’ Melina Bath who will lead the future debate on behalf of locals. – pictured l-r Tristan White, Natalie Gray (petition initiator) Melina Bath MP, Kaylene Turner.
