By Jed Lanyon
Yarra Valley residents gathered at the steps of state parliament to protest about the impact of ongoing and proposed logging of forests surrounding Warburton and other areas of Victoria’s Central Highlands.
The group expressed their concerns on the impact of logging on biodiversity, water quality and increased fire risk.
Among the environmental groups featured members of the Yarra Valley Climate Choir, who performed several songs, while members of the Wurundjeri, Gunnai and Tuaungurung clans spoke to those in attendance.
The group said that several MPs came out from question time to listen to their concerns.
Yarra Valley residents recently held community meetings to voice their concerns regarding potential new logging coupes in Warburton.
Upon contacting VicForests, the state-owned harvester released information regarding the proposed logging coupe.
“VicForests is investigating the suitability of a coupe (Apu) in Warburton for harvest. As part of this process VicForests is consulting with the Warburton community and conducting surveys and studies of the area,” the report reads.
VicForests will be hosting an open house event at the Art Centre, Warburton on 29 February 1pm.
The event is designed to inform locals and hear their perspective, while providing an opportunity to address questions. To register, visit https://bit.ly/2T3J4do.
