Local civil contractor, J&M Bashforth & Sons, has withdrawn from its contract to construct infrastructure for the Wallum urban estate, located on low lying land next to Simpsons Creek in Brunswick Heads.
In a statement, they said it was a difficult decision for the third generation family business, which has operated since 1946.
And while there had been respectful and constructive conversations with those blockading the site, they said, ‘sadly, there have been some not-so-respectful and threatening interactions as well’.
‘The stress of worrying about abuse to our staff, and our family members, brand, damage, vandalism to our yard, and machines has ultimately led to the decision of withdrawing from the project. We believe we can walk away with our heads held high, and wish everyone involved on both sides of the fence all the best’.
Save Wallum campaigner thanks local contractor for quitting project
Save Wallum co-organiser James Barrie thanked the company for withdrawing, and acknowledged they were ‘respectful and non-confrontational with the community protesting the development of threatened species habitat and sacred land’.
‘They certainly can walk away with their heads held high. We are all part of this community, and it was hard being pitted against each other for the sake of outside developer interests and profits…’
Developer laments loss of local jobs
In a statement from Clarence Property, its CEO Simon Kennedy said they ‘respect and appreciate the difficult decision’.
‘Where possible, Clarence Property prefers to use local contractors to support local jobs and local communities, however the safety of staff and contractors remains paramount.
‘Unfortunately, the ongoing threats and intimidation being used by the extreme political activists against local contractors mean some of those jobs and opportunities will now go to contractors from outside the area, discussions with whom have already commenced.
‘We are disappointed that an experienced local civil contractor like Bashforth’s will not be part of what will be an incredible, ecologically sensitive development and we wish them every success for the future.’
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