By Casey Neill
A Coalition State Government would not establish the proposed Great Forest National Park.
Opposition Leader Matthew Guy confirmed the position to media at Melbourne Zoo on Monday 1 October.
Environmentalists have been pushing to set aside 355,000 hectares in the Central Highlands to create the Great Forest National Park (GFNP).
The area includes native timber logging sites.
Victorian Association of Forest Industries (VAFI) CEO Tim Johnston said Mr Guy’s commitment was “a positive step for the timber and forestry industry in the state, and he looks forward to seeing the detailed policy platforms from the Coalition”.
“I am encouraged to see that the Coalition are clear on their policy towards the proposed GFNP, which if established would have devastating consequences for the industry, and a direct impact socially and economically for all of Victoria.
“The timber and forestry industry brings in over $7.3 billion in sales and service income for the state of Victoria and employs some 20,000 workers directly, with thousands more employed through flow-on activity.”
The Central Highlands region is located around Healesville, Kinglake, Toolangi, Warburton, Marysville and Woods Point, and includes the vast majority of remaining leadbeater’s possums.
At an event at the Mt Donna Buang summit last year, Victorian National Parks Association executive director Matt Ruchel said the GFNP was paramount to threatened species’ survival.
“National parks benefit people and nature by providing permanent protection for our unique wildlife and a place for people to enjoy the great outdoors,” he said.
A State Labor Government spokesperson said: “We continue to work with industry, unions and environmental groups to ensure Victoria balances conservation outcomes with jobs.”
The Greens committed to the proposal, with leader Richard Di Natale citing strong economic reasons around tourism and jobs, as well as conservation.
