Many people may be unaware that during the school holidays the Bluesfest organisation submitted a new DA to Council which applies for permission to massively increase the number and size of festivals to be held at the Tyagarah site.
This proposal raises a number of issues of concern.
Of primary concern is Tyagarah’s important but dwindling koala population. This coastal population has been isolated for many years and has become genetically unique. Unfortunately this has made these koalas even more susceptible to stress than their inland counterparts.
The Bluesfest site is adjacent to important primary koala habitat and wildlife corridors. Already with the existing festivals studies have shown koalas moving away from the area. More traffic, people and noise will have a huge negative impact on this vulnerable population.
For over ten years Council and the federal government have been putting money and resources into bush regeneration and koala tree plantings in the area. More, larger festivals will undermine all this money, time and effort.
If people are concerned about this expansion they should contact Council. Ideally Council should re-open the consultation period and allow ratepayers some proper input into this proposal, which will have a major impact on their lives.
We call on Council to listen to your constituents and put koala protection as your priority.
Lisa Greenhill, Tyagarah