The Western Port Woodlands Alliance is calling on the State Government to work with Holcim and the community to incorporate the 67 hectares into the Adams Creek Nature Conservation Reserve. That would mean formal protections for wildlife and habitats and access for the community.
Holcim Australia CEO George Agriogiannis wrote to community groups confirming the company would not quarry the western section of Work Authority 2, an area adjoining the Adams Creek Nature Conservation Reserve on Bunurong Country.
The Alliance are hosting a webinar on Thursday 20 August at 5pm to talk about the future of the woodlands, from the people leading the research, planning and conservation efforts.
Save Western Port Woodlands spokesperson Catherine Watson said the decision demonstrated genuine corporate leadership by Holcim and a much-needed win for the Western Port Woodlands.
'An alliance of nature organisations first raised our concerns about this area because of its importance to nature conservation, the integrity of the Adams Creek Nature Conservation Reserve and the broader Western Port Woodlands corridor.'
'This decision shows nature protection and responsible resource development don't have to be mutually exclusive.'
Jordan Crook from the Victorian National Parks Association added 'This is a great step forward for nature in the Western Port Woodlands and a testament to the local communities' perseverance.'
'It's time the State Government caught up with the community, industry and local government and declared an Environmental Significance Overlay to safeguard the whole Western Port Woodlands, as recommended by state planners.'
Local wildlife photographer and citizen scientist Dave Newman was delighted by the announcement, saying 'I have come to know many of the amazing wildlife in this area. To me, this was the most important patch of habitat we had to save because of its size and location.' 'I will sleep better knowing those animals have a future at Adams Creek.'
