Greens launch branch

By Melissa Donchi
THE Greens launched their new Upper Yarra branch at the Wild Thyme Cafe in Warburton recently before a crowd of more than 100 people.
Speakers included past Shire of Yarra Ranges councillor and regional Greens coordinator Louise Delacretez, councillor Samantha Dunn and McEwen candidate Steve Meacher who answered a range of questions from the audience on issues including climate change, fossil fuels, timber, the war in Iraq and the Federal Government’s treatment of Dr Mohammed Haneef.
Greens organiser Tom Fowle hoped it would be a turning point where the current support for green issues would transform into positive action.
“Support for the policies is growing but there is a big step between supporting the policies to supporting the party,” Mr Fowle said.
“We need to get people to translate their beliefs into action.”
Mr Fowle has been involved with Yarra Valley branches of the Green Party since 2002 and said it was good to see such strong support for a separate party in the Upper Yarra.
“We would be happy if we got 20 people involved in the branch so we can better organise campaigns,” Mr Meacher said.
“One of our biggest challenges is overcoming false allegations about who we are and what we stand for from other parties and we hope to encourage a better understanding through this branch.”
Congratulating the Upper Yarra Greens on establishing their new branch, Mr Meacher said it was an important time for the Greens.
“There has a never been a time when it was more important than it is now for the Greens to influence the course of Australian and world politics,” Mr Meacher said.
“The only real choice for those who are seriously concerned for the future of the planet will be to vote 1 – Australian Greens.”
For more information on the Greens Upper Yarra branch call Tom Fowle on 0409 236 589.