The so called 'Great Koala National Park' is nothing more than a fluffy announcement focused on winning votes, than it is a practical balanced solution that protects the beloved koala and regional communities.
Nationals Senator for NSW, and Shadow Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Ross Cadell, recently toured Adam's Sawmill at Bonville.
He heard first-hand from locals who have been left with little idea on what their future holds after nearby logging sites were included within the Great Koala National Park.
The Great Koala National Park was announced earlier this month by the NSW Labor Government without any supportive legislation. The announcement put in place an immediate moratorium on timber harvesting within the proposed park boundary.
Senator Cadell said while The Nationals support the need for action to protect one of Australia's most recognised native animals, a balanced approach was required to ensure it didn't come at an unacceptable cost to regional communities who rely on the timber industry.
"The koala is an iconic animal of Australia and a species worth protecting," Cadell said.
"In the media, the Minns Labor Government has made this out to be a win for the koala.
"Under the canopy, this decision has cost hundreds of jobs and will decimate regional communities.
"Locals, industry, and politicians alike are in agreement over the need to protect the Koala, but it must not be an all-or-nothing approach.
"With appropriate consultation and consideration of alternate proposals on the size of the proposed park boundary, a win-win scenario can still be achieved.
Alongside the visit to Adam's Sawmill, Cadell toured a logging site at Orara East State Forest and Herons Creek Timber Mills.
"For decades, these businesses have provided the trusses and frames that have built our nation," Cadell said.
"Right now, they need our support, not to be left out to rot by capital city centric decision makers."
