Protection of Whalers Way wildlife now within reach

Protection of Whalers Way wildlife now within reach

Joint media release: Birdlife Australia, Birds SA, Conservation Council SA, Earth and Every and Eyre Peninsula Environmental Protection Alliance

BirdLife Australia, Birds SA, the Eyre Peninsula Environmental Protection Alliance (EPEPA), Earth and Every and Conservation Council South Australia are preparing to celebrate a landmark victory for South Australia’s environment.

South Australia’s Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, Emily Bourke announced in South Australia’s Legislative Council last week that the Native Vegetation Council is advising the SA government not to approve alterations to the permanent Native Vegetation Heritage Agreement (NVHA) at the Whalers Way sanctuary on the Eyre Peninsula. 

The refusal by the NVC prevents the proposed Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex from proceeding. The proposal sought to clear habitat in a heritage area to build the industrial space base. Conservation and community groups have long opposed development at the site and are welcoming the Native Vegetation Council’s recommendation to uphold the legally binding, perpetual protections designed to protect native flora and fauna. 

The proposed Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula would have resulted in the destruction of approximately 23 hectares of habitat that is critical to the survival of nationally listed threatened species. The southern tip of Eyre Peninsula supports the entire global population of the Eyre Peninsula Southern Emu-wren and approximately 80 per cent of the Mallee Whipbird population.

Experts have also expressed concern that repeated rocket launches may adversely affect these species far beyond 23ha through hearing damage, physiological stress, disruption to breeding and feeding behaviours, nest abandonment, and displacement from critical habitat. Other wildlife at risk at Whalers Way include White-bellied Sea-Eagles, Australian Sea Lions (Endangered) and migrating whales in the adjacent coastal waters. 

The alliance of environmental organisations is now asking the South Australian government to formally accept the finding of the NVC and continue to protect the environment and wildlife at Whalers Way. 

Quotes attributable Kate Millar (CEO, Birdlife Australia):

We’re really pleased the Native Vegetation Council have made this recommendation. The South Australian community care deeply about their local wildlife and have sadly witnessed too many environmental tragedies firsthand. This determination protects the natural heritage of Whalers Way, including the Endangered Eyre Peninsula Southern Emu-wren, it shows the community that systems designed to protect nature work. 

BirdLife Australia Media Enquiries: Please contact James Johnson on 0423 659 324 or at media@birdlife.org.au

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