LAST week the Liberals and Nationals tabled the largest petition in Legislative Council history as anger brews about the State Government pushing ahead with the expansion of national parks.
More than 40,000 signatures have been received for the No New National Parks petition, which stands up for the rights of those who want to keep accessing our state forests for traditional bush activities.
In a massive show of support, almost 34,000 concerned bush users signed up on-line, making it the largest e-petition in Victorian history for both houses of parliament.
Many concerned bush user groups will gather on the steps of parliament today to make a significant statement and raise awareness of their fight.
Affected groups include those involved in dispersed camping, hunting, four-wheel driving, hiking, horse-riding, mountain biking, prospecting and fishing.
We do not need more pad-locked national parks, which are poorly maintained and a fire risk.
Neglecting public land leads to overgrown tracks and, the proliferation of invasive weeds and feral pests, which degrade the environment and pose a threat to native flora and fauna.
Shadow Minister for Public Land Management, Melina Bath, tabled the petition.
“The State Government’s flawed policies are not saving vulnerable species, through neglect and mismanagement it is placing them and Victorians at a greater risk of bushfire,” Ms Bath said.
“The Liberals and Nationals will actively manage our public land for better environmental and recreational outcomes.
“Our historic petition is a voice for Victorians who cherish our bush and immerse themselves in nature through the traditional outdoor activities of dispersed camping, hunting, four-wheel driving, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, prospecting and fishing.”
