By Ella Benzie, 5 April 2011
Cottesloe locals claims their opinions are being ignored, despite a successful meeting organised by protest groups against the government’s five to eight-storey development proposal along Cottesloe beach almost a month ago.
The meeting, organised by Keep Cott Low and S.O.S. Cottesloe, held on the 16th of March, produced a Vote of No Confidence in Planning Minister John Day, but the proposal has not been withdrawn or altered.
Keep Cott Low will consider all options if the development goes ahead, including asking the Cottesloe Council to intervene and do what they can, addressing local member Colin Barnett, and even legal action, said President John Hammond last Thursday.
A petition signed by over 8000 local and international people has indicated that 90 per cent of locals are against the proposal, as they will lose their views, and the developments will increase traffic levels and create a shadow over the beach, he said.
“Cottesloe is a popular low-scale development, part of its appeal being that the pine trees dominate the landscape, not the buildings,” said the former mayor.
“If the developments go ahead, Cottesloe will turn into a mini Gold Coast, which we do not want or need.”
Environmental planning and architectural consultant Garry Baverstock’s opinion that the development plan is not sustainable in terms of global warming, has caused even more concern from locals.
“Already many places around the world say that it is not sustainable to build along the beach, so what makes Cottesloe any different,” said Mr Hammond.
Locals will support whatever actions protest groups like Keep Cott Low suggest to stop the developments, as they are tired of feeling that the government is not paying enough attention to the local community’s values, said resident Elliott Kaye.
“Our opinions are being ignored, when we are the ones who have to live with the developments if they go ahead, and we will be predominately affected by any environmental damage,” said Mr Kaye last Saturday.
“There is definitely room for development in regards to tourism along Cottesloe beach, but not on such a large and extreme scale.”
If the plans are to go ahead unaltered, the state government has been assured by the Cottesloe community that it will face further protests, and that the community, “will not give up without a fight,” said Mr Kaye.
Showing posts with label Environment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Environment. Show all posts
Monday, 2 May 2011
Algae bloom strangling Swan
By Tom Iffla, 16 April, 2011
The Swan River Trust has found that the Swan River and its life forms are currently suffering from algae blooms, Tributyltin (Boat paints) and lack of oxygen.
Scientific reports from The Swan River Trust website, stated that it would be foolish to think that all natural self-rejuvenating water blisses go un-harmed due to human induced chemicals and toxins.
The website claimed that high amounts of nutrients in certain areas are the major cause of algae blooms.
The website also stated that the blue-green algae are the most hazardous and can potentially be life-threatening if digested into the human body system.
Rachael Cochrane, the Media Relation’s Manager for the Swan River Trust said there is much cause for concern.
“Some algae are known to produce toxins and these species can pose a threat to human health,” Miss Cochrane said.
Miss Cochrane said it is known to cause skin irritation upon human contact and can cause serious injury or death to underwater life forms.
“They appear to be becoming larger and more frequent on a global scale and that this has been linked to human activity increasing nutrient levels in the water bodies,” she said.
She said the environment does not clean up after its self and people must globally take precautions to secure the lakes and rivers for our future.
The Swan River Trust built oxygen pumps in 1991 to insert oxygen into areas with low oxygen levels.
According to the Swan River Trust website there have been different areas with low levels of oxygen popping up in every annual report since 2001.
These areas include Peppermint Grove, Claremont and White beach.
Miss Cochrane claimed that low water movement and algae blooms are the cause of low oxygen levels within the Swan River.
“Oxygen levels at the bottom of the water column in the vicinity of Middle Swan Bridge are quite low at the moment,” she said.
Miss Cochrane also claimed that there are currently two oxygen pumps that work to re-oxygenate areas that are low with oxygen, but says that this is not enough.
She said that lack of oxygen causes fish and other life forms to asphyxiate.
The Swan River Trust has found that the Swan River and its life forms are currently suffering from algae blooms, Tributyltin (Boat paints) and lack of oxygen.
Scientific reports from The Swan River Trust website, stated that it would be foolish to think that all natural self-rejuvenating water blisses go un-harmed due to human induced chemicals and toxins.
The website claimed that high amounts of nutrients in certain areas are the major cause of algae blooms.
The website also stated that the blue-green algae are the most hazardous and can potentially be life-threatening if digested into the human body system.
Rachael Cochrane, the Media Relation’s Manager for the Swan River Trust said there is much cause for concern.
“Some algae are known to produce toxins and these species can pose a threat to human health,” Miss Cochrane said.
Miss Cochrane said it is known to cause skin irritation upon human contact and can cause serious injury or death to underwater life forms.
“They appear to be becoming larger and more frequent on a global scale and that this has been linked to human activity increasing nutrient levels in the water bodies,” she said.
She said the environment does not clean up after its self and people must globally take precautions to secure the lakes and rivers for our future.
The Swan River Trust built oxygen pumps in 1991 to insert oxygen into areas with low oxygen levels.
According to the Swan River Trust website there have been different areas with low levels of oxygen popping up in every annual report since 2001.
These areas include Peppermint Grove, Claremont and White beach.
Miss Cochrane claimed that low water movement and algae blooms are the cause of low oxygen levels within the Swan River.
“Oxygen levels at the bottom of the water column in the vicinity of Middle Swan Bridge are quite low at the moment,” she said.
Miss Cochrane also claimed that there are currently two oxygen pumps that work to re-oxygenate areas that are low with oxygen, but says that this is not enough.
She said that lack of oxygen causes fish and other life forms to asphyxiate.
Desal plants important if rain fails to fall
By Jorja Keay, 15 April, 2011
The state government may have to continue to rely heavily on desalination plants and alternative water resources if Perth has another dry winter, according to experts.
It is likely that Perth will experience a dry winter, says Neil Bennet from the Australia Government Bureau of Meteorology.
The Water Minister, Bill Marmion says he’s concerned.
Bill Marmion told the Fremantle Gazette in March that Perth is expected to come up dry this winter and despite efforts made by the public to conserve water, something may need to be done to bridge the gap.
Measures have already been put into place to help Perth with its water crisis, such as the Southern Seawater Desalination plant in Binningup and tougher water restrictions place on Perth suburbs by the state government.
The Southern Seawater Desalination plant is scheduled to start supplying Perth in December and room has been left on the site for a second plant.
The second plant is set to double the output of water and will supply Perth with about 30 per cent of its water.
According to Mr Marmion, Perth has saved 15 billion litres of water this past year.
However, according to the West Australian Water Corporation the percentage of the total water capacity in Perth dams are at an exceptionally low 23.7 per cent, with the total storage of water being 147.22 gigalitres.
It is believed that the desal plant and with the contribution of groundwater, a further 165 billion litres of water will be available.
However, Mr Marmion has said this may not be enough.
“I want to avoid tougher restrictions where possible, but that depends on our winter rainfall and how much water we can save as a community,” Mr Marmion said.
The Water Corporation is also doing its bit to contribute to the water shortage crisis.
A two-year pilot project has been proposed to treat wastewater from Beenyup and inject it into the Gnangara Mound.
Water may also need to be drawn from the Yarragadee and Gnangara mounds.
The Target 60 campaign has also been lodged by the Water Corporation encouraging people to save 60 litres of water per person, per day.
Fran Logan, the Opposition spokesperson told the Fremantle Gazette that not enough is being done to invest in Perth’s water needs.
The opposition wants more to be done by the state government, commenting that plans for more desalination plants and water recycling plans should be fast-tracked.
The state government may have to continue to rely heavily on desalination plants and alternative water resources if Perth has another dry winter, according to experts.
It is likely that Perth will experience a dry winter, says Neil Bennet from the Australia Government Bureau of Meteorology.
The Water Minister, Bill Marmion says he’s concerned.
Bill Marmion told the Fremantle Gazette in March that Perth is expected to come up dry this winter and despite efforts made by the public to conserve water, something may need to be done to bridge the gap.
Measures have already been put into place to help Perth with its water crisis, such as the Southern Seawater Desalination plant in Binningup and tougher water restrictions place on Perth suburbs by the state government.
The Southern Seawater Desalination plant is scheduled to start supplying Perth in December and room has been left on the site for a second plant.
The second plant is set to double the output of water and will supply Perth with about 30 per cent of its water.
According to Mr Marmion, Perth has saved 15 billion litres of water this past year.
However, according to the West Australian Water Corporation the percentage of the total water capacity in Perth dams are at an exceptionally low 23.7 per cent, with the total storage of water being 147.22 gigalitres.
It is believed that the desal plant and with the contribution of groundwater, a further 165 billion litres of water will be available.
However, Mr Marmion has said this may not be enough.
“I want to avoid tougher restrictions where possible, but that depends on our winter rainfall and how much water we can save as a community,” Mr Marmion said.
The Water Corporation is also doing its bit to contribute to the water shortage crisis.
A two-year pilot project has been proposed to treat wastewater from Beenyup and inject it into the Gnangara Mound.
Water may also need to be drawn from the Yarragadee and Gnangara mounds.
The Target 60 campaign has also been lodged by the Water Corporation encouraging people to save 60 litres of water per person, per day.
Fran Logan, the Opposition spokesperson told the Fremantle Gazette that not enough is being done to invest in Perth’s water needs.
The opposition wants more to be done by the state government, commenting that plans for more desalination plants and water recycling plans should be fast-tracked.
Roundabout making Nedlands ‘safer’
By Sasha Spiers, 15 April, 2011
The construction of a roundabout on Hampden road is creating safer roads for Nedlands residents and businesses, say locals.
The city of Nedlands acting manager of engineering services, Wayne Mo, said the roundabout is being built as a part of the Western Australian government’s Black Spot Program.
The Black Spot Program was created to reduce the number of traffic incidents on roads ‘with proven crash history’ by providing ‘cost-effective treatment of hazardous road locations’.
According to the Western Australian government’s 2009 Road traffic fatalities statistics, 31.2 per cent of crashes in the Perth Metropolitan Area have resulted from speeding.
A 2000-2002 report on the effect of Black Spot treatments in reducing crashes, found a twenty-one point three per cent crash reduction in all Metropolitan sites, when a roundabout was used.
“The Black Spot Program is to deal with safety issues,” said Mr Mo.
The roundabout is a recognised counter measure to address the crashes at the approaches to the intersection”, said Mr Mo.
Businesses around the junction said they had been consulted in advance and were in favour of the roadworks.
Vintage Cellars manager, Gaelle Houdy said that although she did not think a roundabout was needed, she supported it if helped reduced accidents on the road.
‘If it can slow down people, it’s a good idea” said Ms Houdy.
Tiamo Café Restaurant manager, Charles Peter, said construction of the roundabout had encouraged drivers to slow down and be more cautious when approaching the roundabout.
“It’s a move in the right direction I think. It’s about time we had something here,” said Mr Peter.
Mr Mo said the majority of the community’s response to the roadworks was positive.
He said negative responses to the roadworks were generally from people who lived outside the affected area.
The costs for the roadworks are shared between the Nedlands and Subiaco councils, as Hampden road marks the boundary between the two councils.
Construction of the roundabout began six weeks ago by the Subiaco council and is scheduled to be completed in a month.
The Subiaco council was unavailable for comment.
The construction of a roundabout on Hampden road is creating safer roads for Nedlands residents and businesses, say locals.
The city of Nedlands acting manager of engineering services, Wayne Mo, said the roundabout is being built as a part of the Western Australian government’s Black Spot Program.
The Black Spot Program was created to reduce the number of traffic incidents on roads ‘with proven crash history’ by providing ‘cost-effective treatment of hazardous road locations’.
According to the Western Australian government’s 2009 Road traffic fatalities statistics, 31.2 per cent of crashes in the Perth Metropolitan Area have resulted from speeding.
A 2000-2002 report on the effect of Black Spot treatments in reducing crashes, found a twenty-one point three per cent crash reduction in all Metropolitan sites, when a roundabout was used.
“The Black Spot Program is to deal with safety issues,” said Mr Mo.
The roundabout is a recognised counter measure to address the crashes at the approaches to the intersection”, said Mr Mo.
Businesses around the junction said they had been consulted in advance and were in favour of the roadworks.
Vintage Cellars manager, Gaelle Houdy said that although she did not think a roundabout was needed, she supported it if helped reduced accidents on the road.
‘If it can slow down people, it’s a good idea” said Ms Houdy.
Tiamo Café Restaurant manager, Charles Peter, said construction of the roundabout had encouraged drivers to slow down and be more cautious when approaching the roundabout.
“It’s a move in the right direction I think. It’s about time we had something here,” said Mr Peter.
Mr Mo said the majority of the community’s response to the roadworks was positive.
He said negative responses to the roadworks were generally from people who lived outside the affected area.
The costs for the roadworks are shared between the Nedlands and Subiaco councils, as Hampden road marks the boundary between the two councils.
Construction of the roundabout began six weeks ago by the Subiaco council and is scheduled to be completed in a month.
The Subiaco council was unavailable for comment.
Marina protest 'too much'
by Britany Fenwick, 13 April 2011
Protestors are being accused by locals of going too far with their fight against a marina being built at Point Peron, in Rockingham.
Protestors are holding regular meetings, sending letters to the council and newspapers trying to prevent the proposed marina.
“The only thing that wins is people power,” says protestor Susan Di Mambro.
As a result, hundreds of people have gathered to rally and protest against the proposal.
“Its going to cost everyone else money so rich people can park their boats,” says Ms Di Mambro.
Protestors are arguing that Point Peron was declared a ‘bush land forever’ site and it should be kept that way out of respect.
“We are not against development,” she says.
“We’re fighting for a bush forever site.”
The loss of Seagrass has also upset many people who say once it is destroyed it does not grow back.
This marina will indirectly destroy and estimate of five hectares of Seagrass, protestors claim.
It will directly destroy an estimated one hectare of Seagrass, which can never again be replaced, they say.
Locals agree, however, that a marina would be a positive move for the city of Rockingham, and would help in progressing forward instead of staying still.
“Progress and expanding doesn’t have to mean destruction, we have to expand to progress,” says local boat owner Roslyn McAulloy.
Locals are arguing that protestors have gone too far, saying the bush land they are trying to protect will probably be destroyed due to natural causes.
“The fact that someone with a boat has to go to Fremantle or Mandurah for fuel is silly,” says Ms McAulloy.
“There is nothing here to service a boat.
“Point Peron is not a place where people can walk.
“There definitely should be a Marina.
“We are a boating community.”
Locals are sick of the protesting and agree that development is needed.
“Nothing is forever, progress and change doesn’t mean it’s bad,” says Ms McAulley.
The council has not decided whether this development is going to go through yet or not.
“No matter what you do or where you do it there is always an argument of why it can’t be done,” says Roslyn McAulley.
South Beach developers beached
By Jessica Shackleton, 8 April, 2011
Cockburn City Council has refused a three-storey development planned for South Beach Promenade.
At its March meeting, the council confirmed the apartment block would not go ahead after objections from local residents.
A total of 22 residents objected to the development, saying the three-storey apartment block would be built in a beachfront residential area.
Carole Reeve-Fowkes, a councillor for Cockburn, supported the residents along with the Mayor of Fremantle, Brad Pettit.
“Never before have there been 22 individual objections to one project,” Ms Reeve-Fowkes said.
“I knew something wasn’t right then.”
The resident objections were concerned about a proposed underground car park and increasing traffic density in the area.
Mr. Pettit visited the area and agreed with residents that the laneway behind the South Beach Promenade units was too small to accommodate any more cars.
Nola Goodchild, one of the original residents of the South Beach Village, spoke at the council meeting, arguing the need for the area to stay residential rather than a built up, concrete jungle.
“Developers come in, make their money, and leave,” Ms. Goodchild said.
“That’s not what this area is about, they want investors not residents.”
Mr. and Ms. Goodchild chose to buy the unit at the end of the promenade on the basis that the empty block next to them, was intended for another unit.
The lot was sold to a developer who was hired by Base Developments WA on the condition that he could oversee the developments and provide the block of apartments.
A report by Base Developments WA for Cockburn Council said the apartments are an opportunity to increase affordable and diverse accommodation in the South Beach Village.
After rejecting the proposal, Cockburn City Council has received praise from the South Beach residents.
“The Council was very supportive; the Mayor actually listened to what we had to say, he was brilliant,” Ms. Goodchild said.
Base Developments WA has declined to comment.
Cockburn City Council has refused a three-storey development planned for South Beach Promenade.
At its March meeting, the council confirmed the apartment block would not go ahead after objections from local residents.
A total of 22 residents objected to the development, saying the three-storey apartment block would be built in a beachfront residential area.
Carole Reeve-Fowkes, a councillor for Cockburn, supported the residents along with the Mayor of Fremantle, Brad Pettit.
“Never before have there been 22 individual objections to one project,” Ms Reeve-Fowkes said.
“I knew something wasn’t right then.”
The resident objections were concerned about a proposed underground car park and increasing traffic density in the area.
Mr. Pettit visited the area and agreed with residents that the laneway behind the South Beach Promenade units was too small to accommodate any more cars.
Nola Goodchild, one of the original residents of the South Beach Village, spoke at the council meeting, arguing the need for the area to stay residential rather than a built up, concrete jungle.
“Developers come in, make their money, and leave,” Ms. Goodchild said.
“That’s not what this area is about, they want investors not residents.”
Mr. and Ms. Goodchild chose to buy the unit at the end of the promenade on the basis that the empty block next to them, was intended for another unit.
The lot was sold to a developer who was hired by Base Developments WA on the condition that he could oversee the developments and provide the block of apartments.
A report by Base Developments WA for Cockburn Council said the apartments are an opportunity to increase affordable and diverse accommodation in the South Beach Village.
After rejecting the proposal, Cockburn City Council has received praise from the South Beach residents.
“The Council was very supportive; the Mayor actually listened to what we had to say, he was brilliant,” Ms. Goodchild said.
Base Developments WA has declined to comment.
Under-sized fishing deleting fish stocks
By Ian Melville, 8 April, 2011
Local fish stocks are under threat due to under size fishing.
Anglers are not adhering to the laws and regulations, says the Fisheries Department, which has identified Black Bream and Tailor species have been hit hard this summer and stocks are in danger.
“People don't target under size fish,” says Fisheries Officer Ryan Parker from the Fremantle Fisheries Department.
“They just take whatever they catch.”
Fisheries officials have targeted the Fremantle rock walls, piers, and the Mandurah bridges to show force on the matter.
“The West Australian fisheries department have conducted road blocks and on site visits to these areas, although the exact number of infringements cannot be disclosed at this time,” said Mr Parker.
“The majority of infringements issued within these areas have been handed to people with poor language and communication skills,” said Fisheries Officer Bob Kirk.
“More staff are needed.
"Interpreters are needed to create effective cross cultural communication and education,” said Mr Kirk.
“Fishing in Western Australia has its restrictions and laws.
“People are just not getting the message,” he said.
Fines of $200 can be issued for each under size fish and people are urged to help fisheries combat these issues.
Western Australia is one of the few states in Australia to make recreational fishing licenses compulsory.
Bag limits also apply to certain fish breeds within the state.
“Fish in these waters will not last unless they are given a chance to grow and reproduce,” says Mr Kirk.
“Catching fish at such an early stage in their life is only creating an uneven biodiversity,” said Bob Kirk.
Controversial Smiths Beach development delayed
By Holly Mitchell, 4 April, 2011
Planning consultants say the Western Australian Planning Commission has delayed the controversial Smiths Beach development from commencing construction.
After a long and confrontational planning process the commission has rejected the latest plans for the development after they had been approved by the Shire of Busselton earlier in the year.
Canal Rocks Pty Ltd planning consultant Michael Swift said the dismissal by the commission was “contrary to normal procedure especially for a project like Smiths Beach”.
Last year a reduced scale of development had been negotiated with the developers at Smiths Beach after an extended State Administrative Tribunal appeal, reducing its size to from 21ha to 12ha, featuring one hotel.
The project’s latest progression has been further frustrated despite the local authorities’ adopting the amended plans.
The Western Australian Planning Commission have ordered further policies and amended current plans, which even though is still within the commission’s powers is contrary to typical process, prompting people such as Mr Swift to speak out.
"There is suspicion of individual people within the approval agencies not supporting the Smiths Beach development. It has been a lot slower and more meticulous than normal,” Mr Swift said.
The issues could be resolved if government agencies “acted in an appropriate and unbiased manner”, said environmental integration expert, Howard Mitchell.
Mr Mitchell also speculated that the commission’s board meeting minutes would reveal who is allegedly accountable for the recent delays.
The Federal Government’s Environmental agencies and the Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority have both given clearance and approval to the current plans for Smiths Beach.
Representatives from the Western Australian Planning Commission, and Nigel Bancroft director of planning and development services Shire of Busselton, chose not to give comments on the current status of the development when approached.
The dismissal has lead to further appeals and expenditure by both the government agencies involved and the developer, Canal Rocks Pty Ltd.
Canal Rocks has pushed to build a resort development on the South West beach front site for over 10 years but the controversy over Smiths beach has lead to ministerial resignations, investigations by the Corruption and Crime Commission, and several appearances at the State Administrative Tribunal.
The Smiths Beach development has been forced back into the State Administrative Tribunal for further debate and trials.
The tribunal expects to resume hearings in early May.
Planning consultants say the Western Australian Planning Commission has delayed the controversial Smiths Beach development from commencing construction.
After a long and confrontational planning process the commission has rejected the latest plans for the development after they had been approved by the Shire of Busselton earlier in the year.
Canal Rocks Pty Ltd planning consultant Michael Swift said the dismissal by the commission was “contrary to normal procedure especially for a project like Smiths Beach”.
Last year a reduced scale of development had been negotiated with the developers at Smiths Beach after an extended State Administrative Tribunal appeal, reducing its size to from 21ha to 12ha, featuring one hotel.
The project’s latest progression has been further frustrated despite the local authorities’ adopting the amended plans.
The Western Australian Planning Commission have ordered further policies and amended current plans, which even though is still within the commission’s powers is contrary to typical process, prompting people such as Mr Swift to speak out.
"There is suspicion of individual people within the approval agencies not supporting the Smiths Beach development. It has been a lot slower and more meticulous than normal,” Mr Swift said.
The issues could be resolved if government agencies “acted in an appropriate and unbiased manner”, said environmental integration expert, Howard Mitchell.
Mr Mitchell also speculated that the commission’s board meeting minutes would reveal who is allegedly accountable for the recent delays.
The Federal Government’s Environmental agencies and the Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority have both given clearance and approval to the current plans for Smiths Beach.
Representatives from the Western Australian Planning Commission, and Nigel Bancroft director of planning and development services Shire of Busselton, chose not to give comments on the current status of the development when approached.
The dismissal has lead to further appeals and expenditure by both the government agencies involved and the developer, Canal Rocks Pty Ltd.
Canal Rocks has pushed to build a resort development on the South West beach front site for over 10 years but the controversy over Smiths beach has lead to ministerial resignations, investigations by the Corruption and Crime Commission, and several appearances at the State Administrative Tribunal.
The Smiths Beach development has been forced back into the State Administrative Tribunal for further debate and trials.
The tribunal expects to resume hearings in early May.
New planning authority concerns Cottesloe residents
by Chris Cramb, 30 March 2011
Development Assessment Panels (DAPs) in Western Australia came into operation on March 24, creating doubt over planning power for Cottesloe residents and groups against the beachfront high-rise plans.
Appointed by the Minister for Planning, John Day, DPAs are panels of independent planning specialists and local government representatives that have the power to make decisions on developments exceeding two million dollars.
The Property Council of Australia advocated the creation of DAPs as “a solution to the state’s cumbersome approvals process.
“The creation of DAPs, and the associated planning reforms, represents the most important changes to WAs development approvals process in decades,” it claims.
“The new legislation improves the planning system by providing more transparency, consistency, and reliability in decision-making on complex development applications,” said the WA Planning Commission.
The recent changes have not sat well with those who have been fighting against Cottesloe’s high-rise plans, as they are sceptical as to how much power the local government and residents will have in regard to the final decision.
“DAPs will replace the role of the local government,” claimed John Hammond, president of the community lobby group Keep Cott Low.
“It erodes the power of the local council,” he said.
“There will be no public accountability or scrutiny of DAPs.”
“The council don’t have a great track record of managing this. It’s good that someone is taking over,” said Mr John Sadleir, a resident of Cottesloe for 60 years and previous Cottesloe Council member.
“It’s unfortunate the council have done it as they have,” Mr Sadleir said.
“The council has had its chance. They had plenty of time to engage with developers and solve it, but they have been too equivocal.”
While Mr Sadleir and his wife are happy with beachfront development of up to five stories, they feel eight stories is too much, and fears that the DAP assigned to Cottesloe may conclude on a plan “worse” than what they want.
The Minister will establish fifteen different DAPs, one for each local government area, on 2nd May this year.
The first of the DAP meetings is scheduled to sit on the 1st July 2011.
Development Assessment Panels (DAPs) in Western Australia came into operation on March 24, creating doubt over planning power for Cottesloe residents and groups against the beachfront high-rise plans.
Appointed by the Minister for Planning, John Day, DPAs are panels of independent planning specialists and local government representatives that have the power to make decisions on developments exceeding two million dollars.
The Property Council of Australia advocated the creation of DAPs as “a solution to the state’s cumbersome approvals process.
“The creation of DAPs, and the associated planning reforms, represents the most important changes to WAs development approvals process in decades,” it claims.
“The new legislation improves the planning system by providing more transparency, consistency, and reliability in decision-making on complex development applications,” said the WA Planning Commission.
The recent changes have not sat well with those who have been fighting against Cottesloe’s high-rise plans, as they are sceptical as to how much power the local government and residents will have in regard to the final decision.
“DAPs will replace the role of the local government,” claimed John Hammond, president of the community lobby group Keep Cott Low.
“It erodes the power of the local council,” he said.
“There will be no public accountability or scrutiny of DAPs.”
“The council don’t have a great track record of managing this. It’s good that someone is taking over,” said Mr John Sadleir, a resident of Cottesloe for 60 years and previous Cottesloe Council member.
“It’s unfortunate the council have done it as they have,” Mr Sadleir said.
“The council has had its chance. They had plenty of time to engage with developers and solve it, but they have been too equivocal.”
While Mr Sadleir and his wife are happy with beachfront development of up to five stories, they feel eight stories is too much, and fears that the DAP assigned to Cottesloe may conclude on a plan “worse” than what they want.
The Minister will establish fifteen different DAPs, one for each local government area, on 2nd May this year.
The first of the DAP meetings is scheduled to sit on the 1st July 2011.
Perry Lakes $2.6m water revival plan
By Lisa Calautti, 28 March, 2011
The Town of Cambridge has submitted the risk assessment report for its $2.6M Perry Lakes Aquifer Replenishment Project to the WA Government.
The federally funded community infrastructure project to replenish Perry Lakes could raise the local water table by one and a half metres.
A significant decrease in winter rainfall over several years has caused Perry Lakes to dry out.
“This project is the first of its kind in Australia,” said Brett Jackson, Director of Projects at Town of Cambridge.
“It will be using treated waste water, so the Health Department needs to approve that safety standards are met,” Mr Jackson said.
“Town of Cambridge expects construction to start in September, with completion due by the end of December this year.
“After approval we can finish compiling the specifications, then tender for works,” he said.
The project, partnered between Cambridge, CSRIO and the Water Corporation, may eventually make more irrigation water available to local residents.
However, Mr Jackson said CSIRO’s scientific modelling process could not confirm this would occur.
Subiaco Wastewater Treatment Plant sends billions of litres of highly-treated waste water into the Indian Ocean each year.
The aquifer project will divert about two billion litres per year of the treated water to underground galleries dug near Perry Lakes.
Pumps will push this water through the galleries against existing groundwater, forcing a gradual rise in the water table.
Perry Lakes’ biodiversity of plants, birds and endangered Long-Necked Tortoises has struggled to survive with the scarcity of rain.
A bore currently pumps water into the east lake to keep it alive, while the west lake remains completely dry.
“Average rainfall figures show decreases of 10 to 15mm per decade over the last 40 years in Perth,” said Pat Ward, a meteorologist from the Bureau of Meteorology’s WA Climate Service Centre.
This significant decrease has created water shortages for the environment and human consumption in Perth.
“Trends show the Subtropical Ridge, which is a global high pressure band at southern WA’s latitude, is gaining strength,” said Mr Ward.
“This results in stronger high pressure systems deflecting cold fronts which may bear rain,” he said.
These cold fronts dissipate or slip further south, minimising rainfall over the southwest land mass.
Current trends and global climate model predictions suggest rainfall will probably keep decreasing in WA’s south, causing further drying of lakes.
The Town of Cambridge has submitted the risk assessment report for its $2.6M Perry Lakes Aquifer Replenishment Project to the WA Government.
The federally funded community infrastructure project to replenish Perry Lakes could raise the local water table by one and a half metres.
A significant decrease in winter rainfall over several years has caused Perry Lakes to dry out.
“This project is the first of its kind in Australia,” said Brett Jackson, Director of Projects at Town of Cambridge.
“It will be using treated waste water, so the Health Department needs to approve that safety standards are met,” Mr Jackson said.
“Town of Cambridge expects construction to start in September, with completion due by the end of December this year.
“After approval we can finish compiling the specifications, then tender for works,” he said.
The project, partnered between Cambridge, CSRIO and the Water Corporation, may eventually make more irrigation water available to local residents.
However, Mr Jackson said CSIRO’s scientific modelling process could not confirm this would occur.
Subiaco Wastewater Treatment Plant sends billions of litres of highly-treated waste water into the Indian Ocean each year.
The aquifer project will divert about two billion litres per year of the treated water to underground galleries dug near Perry Lakes.
Pumps will push this water through the galleries against existing groundwater, forcing a gradual rise in the water table.
Perry Lakes’ biodiversity of plants, birds and endangered Long-Necked Tortoises has struggled to survive with the scarcity of rain.
A bore currently pumps water into the east lake to keep it alive, while the west lake remains completely dry.
“Average rainfall figures show decreases of 10 to 15mm per decade over the last 40 years in Perth,” said Pat Ward, a meteorologist from the Bureau of Meteorology’s WA Climate Service Centre.
This significant decrease has created water shortages for the environment and human consumption in Perth.
“Trends show the Subtropical Ridge, which is a global high pressure band at southern WA’s latitude, is gaining strength,” said Mr Ward.
“This results in stronger high pressure systems deflecting cold fronts which may bear rain,” he said.
These cold fronts dissipate or slip further south, minimising rainfall over the southwest land mass.
Current trends and global climate model predictions suggest rainfall will probably keep decreasing in WA’s south, causing further drying of lakes.
Earth Hour success in Perth
By Jacqueline Duthie 27 March 2011
Kings Park joined thousands of other Perth venues as Western Australians made a bold statement against climate change by participating in Earth Hour last night.
Between 8:30 and 9:30pm, local time, many homes, businesses and tourist attractions switched off their power sources as part of the World Wildlife Foundation initiative.
The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, responsible for the maintenance of Bold Park, Kings Park and the Botanic Gardens, took part in Earth Hour by turning off all non-essential lighting and electrical equipment to the three tourist attractions.
The Authority hoped its actions would help raise awareness about climate change and the growing necessity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“[The Agency’s] participation in this public exercise is one way of joining up with other community groups to raise awareness of conservation issues,” said the Authority’s Director of Business and Visitors Services, Marcelle Broderick.
Synergy, the retailer of Kings Park’s electricity, supports a number of their conservation projects and agreed with this approach.
“Earth Hour provides the opportunity for households to focus on the behavioural changes they can make on a long-term basis to reduce their energy use,” said Synergy Corporate Affairs Representative, Natalie Curtis.
“All essential safety related lighting was kept on, and all non-essential decorative and aesthetic lighting was turned off,” Ms Broderick said.
Roughly 40 per cent of Kings Park’s lights, predominantly located on Fraser Avenue and State War Memorial precincts, were turned off during the hour.
Visitors to Kings Park last night were in a prime location to view the uncharacteristically dim cityscape, with most of the main buildings turning off their lighting.
The World Wildlife Foundation has emphasised that the initiative is primarily symbolic in speaking out against climate change and, since its establishment in Sydney in 2007, Earth Hour has seen success on an international scale.
According to a press release from Western Power, Perth’s energy consumption dropped by two percent during Earth Hour on Saturday evening, just beating last year’s effort.
The amount of energy conserved within the hour equates to approximately 100,000 homes turning off their lights for one hour, or 24,000 homes turning off all power sources.
Ms Broderick said that the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority had every intention of participating in Earth Hour next year.
“Our participation allows us to be identified as a conservation agency, and participation in public awareness on conservation issues is a good fit with the Authority’s mission.”
Kings Park joined thousands of other Perth venues as Western Australians made a bold statement against climate change by participating in Earth Hour last night.
Between 8:30 and 9:30pm, local time, many homes, businesses and tourist attractions switched off their power sources as part of the World Wildlife Foundation initiative.
The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, responsible for the maintenance of Bold Park, Kings Park and the Botanic Gardens, took part in Earth Hour by turning off all non-essential lighting and electrical equipment to the three tourist attractions.
The Authority hoped its actions would help raise awareness about climate change and the growing necessity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“[The Agency’s] participation in this public exercise is one way of joining up with other community groups to raise awareness of conservation issues,” said the Authority’s Director of Business and Visitors Services, Marcelle Broderick.
Synergy, the retailer of Kings Park’s electricity, supports a number of their conservation projects and agreed with this approach.
“Earth Hour provides the opportunity for households to focus on the behavioural changes they can make on a long-term basis to reduce their energy use,” said Synergy Corporate Affairs Representative, Natalie Curtis.
“All essential safety related lighting was kept on, and all non-essential decorative and aesthetic lighting was turned off,” Ms Broderick said.
Roughly 40 per cent of Kings Park’s lights, predominantly located on Fraser Avenue and State War Memorial precincts, were turned off during the hour.
Visitors to Kings Park last night were in a prime location to view the uncharacteristically dim cityscape, with most of the main buildings turning off their lighting.
The World Wildlife Foundation has emphasised that the initiative is primarily symbolic in speaking out against climate change and, since its establishment in Sydney in 2007, Earth Hour has seen success on an international scale.
According to a press release from Western Power, Perth’s energy consumption dropped by two percent during Earth Hour on Saturday evening, just beating last year’s effort.
The amount of energy conserved within the hour equates to approximately 100,000 homes turning off their lights for one hour, or 24,000 homes turning off all power sources.
Ms Broderick said that the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority had every intention of participating in Earth Hour next year.
“Our participation allows us to be identified as a conservation agency, and participation in public awareness on conservation issues is a good fit with the Authority’s mission.”
Schools combine for ‘Evening on the Green’
By Stephanie Wilson, 25 March 2011
Lakeland Senior High School showcased their talent, along with local primary schools, for the ‘Evening on the Green’, on Wednesday the 23rd of March 2011.
The event held at Lakeland Senior High School, showcased a unity of community spirit for each performance, with South Lake, Beeliar, Bibra Lake and Yangebup primary school demonstrating their singing abilities alongside Lakeland SHS.
This was the second year that the ‘Evening on the Green’ was held, with over 150 performers.
There were more than 600 audience members.
“The purpose of the Evening on the Green is to get our local primary schools to be involved in the community project.
“It is basically more of a PR for the school that we do it for and networking for the primary schools,” said Raymond Foo, Music Coordinator and Band Ensemble Director at Lakeland SHS.
“Giving them the interaction that they need to go down and do the rehearsals, shows them what can be happening in the next few years for them,” said Sandra Simpson, mother of a performer.
“I think it is a good idea because they can see its bringing the community together and the performance shows what Lakeland has got to offer,” said Pauline Dupont, an audience member.
“Kids from the primary school can get a better understanding of what is at the Lakeland.”
The final song was the highlight of the night, combining choirs and performers from all schools and the Lakeland SHS band singing ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ by the Journey.
“I thought it was great watching them all come together,” said Ms Dupont.
The event was promoted to the primary schools and Lakeland SHS through newsletters and word of mouth.
“I think better promotion within the community to attract a larger audience, I think that will benefit the event to make sure it keeps it running for the future,” said Joshua Oronce, Master of Ceremonies for the night.
Planning for the event began last year, with plans already in place for next year’s event.
“For the music, it took end of term three to do the music and I had to contact the primary schools before hand about term four asking them for the actual song,” said Mr Foo.
“I think it is an annual event now,” said Mr Foo.
“Amazing, fantastic and enjoyable,” said Mariah Oronce, a performer on the night.
Lakeland Senior High School showcased their talent, along with local primary schools, for the ‘Evening on the Green’, on Wednesday the 23rd of March 2011.
The event held at Lakeland Senior High School, showcased a unity of community spirit for each performance, with South Lake, Beeliar, Bibra Lake and Yangebup primary school demonstrating their singing abilities alongside Lakeland SHS.
This was the second year that the ‘Evening on the Green’ was held, with over 150 performers.
There were more than 600 audience members.
“The purpose of the Evening on the Green is to get our local primary schools to be involved in the community project.
“It is basically more of a PR for the school that we do it for and networking for the primary schools,” said Raymond Foo, Music Coordinator and Band Ensemble Director at Lakeland SHS.
“Giving them the interaction that they need to go down and do the rehearsals, shows them what can be happening in the next few years for them,” said Sandra Simpson, mother of a performer.
“I think it is a good idea because they can see its bringing the community together and the performance shows what Lakeland has got to offer,” said Pauline Dupont, an audience member.
“Kids from the primary school can get a better understanding of what is at the Lakeland.”
The final song was the highlight of the night, combining choirs and performers from all schools and the Lakeland SHS band singing ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ by the Journey.
“I thought it was great watching them all come together,” said Ms Dupont.
The event was promoted to the primary schools and Lakeland SHS through newsletters and word of mouth.
“I think better promotion within the community to attract a larger audience, I think that will benefit the event to make sure it keeps it running for the future,” said Joshua Oronce, Master of Ceremonies for the night.
Planning for the event began last year, with plans already in place for next year’s event.
“For the music, it took end of term three to do the music and I had to contact the primary schools before hand about term four asking them for the actual song,” said Mr Foo.
“I think it is an annual event now,” said Mr Foo.
“Amazing, fantastic and enjoyable,” said Mariah Oronce, a performer on the night.
Wednesday, 16 March 2011
Too few fish in the sea
Written by Kendall O'Connor
As she places her final order for the day, Sally Ball is not happy.
“That will be $57 thanks,” says the shopkeeper.
Sally reaches for her credit card, shaking her head in what appears to be disbelief at the cost of four fillets of Tasmanian salmon and a dozen South Australian oysters.
As she places her final order for the day, Sally Ball is not happy.
“That will be $57 thanks,” says the shopkeeper.
Sally reaches for her credit card, shaking her head in what appears to be disbelief at the cost of four fillets of Tasmanian salmon and a dozen South Australian oysters.
Winegrowers oppose Margaret River Coal Mine
Written by James Mahoney
Clean air, beautiful beaches and towering natural forests of karri and karrah that open out onto fertile hills, small plains and vineyards producing wines that are amongst the finest in the world.
That is what makes up the Margaret River Wine and Tourism Region and what the locals are fighting to protect.
Friday, 7 January 2011
Coalmine Opponents predict disaster for Margaret River
By James Mahoney
Clean air and beautiful beaches mixed in with towering natural forests of Karri and Jarrah that open out onto fertile hills and small plains and wines that are amongst the finest in the world.
That is what makes up the Margaret River Wine and Tourism Region and what the locals are fighting to protect.
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