MINISTERS IGNORE LAKES ISSUES: NATS

Melbourne Labor Ministers have been urged to visit the region and gain a
first hand appreciation of the issues surrounding the algal bloom in the
Gippsland Lakes.

The Nationals Upper House Member for Eastern Region Peter Hall said that
Brumby Government Ministers had not visited the region to assess the impact
of the bloom or given any commitment for extra financial assistance for
tourism marketing or the nutrient reduction program.

“I’m surprised that the Minister for Environment or his other Cabinet
colleagues haven’t visited the region and gained a first hand appreciation
of the algae issues, prior to Parliament resuming sittings next week,” Mr
Hall said.

“The negative publicity surrounding the algal bloom has undoubtedly had an
impact on the region’s reputation and it would be worthwhile for senior
Ministers to come to Gippsland and meet with community representatives.

“Although the warnings against swimming in affected areas are still in
place, it is very important that we continue to keep stressing all of the
other activities which can still be enjoyed by visitors to East Gippsland –
such as swimming on the 90 Mile Beach; boating and fishing on the lakes;
and exploring the other attractions in the region.

“The Brumby Government Ministers could assist in promoting that message
through visits to the region and a financial commitment to additional
resources for tourism marketing in the future.”

Mr Hall said he was also concerned about the longer term environmental
health of the Lakes and catchment areas.

“Algal blooms have occurred in the past and it is very likely that they
will occur in the future unless we have more success at reducing the amount
of nutrients entering the system,” he said.

“Unfortunately, the Brumby Government has cut funding for the nutrient
reduction program from an average of $3.2 million per year to just $2
million per year. In the lead up to this year’s State Budget, I will
continue to raise the issue in Parliament and seek extra funding for
ongoing research and resources to reduce the amount of nutrients which
enter the system in the first place.

“The environment of the Gippsland Lakes is vital to the social and economic
life of our region and there needs to be a long-term commitment to
restoring the system to better health.”