Edward Kent’s letter, Wallum (June 26), tried to diminish the importance of the Save Wallum campaign to mere ‘piffle’, comparing its significance to the threat of ‘horrific large-scale destruction’ by large wind or solar farms to ‘the vast tracts of pristine wilderness’ in Queensland.
But is he really concerned about ‘such treasures’ or is he just wanting to discredit any renewable projects? He regards the net zero goal as a ‘fit of madness and corruption’ and assumes that all ‘so-called’ renewable projects have, and will, cause the same threat of destruction nationwide.
We would all agree that Queensland Labor shouldn’t allow any renewable development in areas of pristine wilderness. But currently there are only two Greens MPs (of the 47 nationwide) represented in the Queensland parliament. Their impact is limited, which may account for the passing of these projects in dubious locations.
Ironically, Steven Nowakowski’s concerns have led him to join up with Colin Boyce, a Liberal National MP and well-known climate-sceptic who is recently advocating nuclear power stations for Queensland. There’s little indication of his concern for pristine wildernesses or the environmental health of our planet.
Renewables in agriculture are gaining momentum, offering shade and shelter for livestock, and a financial buffer in times of drought. Many smaller regional towns are also benefiting from cheaper energy costs with local renewable energy projects. Maintenance roles are offering some regional employment opportunities.
The comparative small size of Wallum belies its significance for locally threatened species of plants and wildlife. Adjoining the Tyagarah Nature Reserve, it provided a refuge for wildlife fleeing from bushfires in the coastal heathland. Its coffee rock layers have absorbed floodwaters and protected the health of Simpson Creek and the Brunswick River from the effects of exposed acid sulphate soils.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
