Yesterday the Federal Court granted Save Wallum Inc.’s request to reinstate the expert evidence of ecologist David Milledge, which had previously been excluded.
Save Wallum says this is a big step forward in the case against Clarence Property’s proposed development at 15 Torakina Road Bayside Brunswick Heads.
The court noted that: ‘The parties are to confer with a view to resolving the remaining objections to Mr Milledge’s expert reports by agreement if possible and otherwise as to the time at which, and the most efficient means by which, any remaining objections are to be
resolved by the Court.’
Save Wallum says Milledge’s evidence speaks directly to the ecological significance of the Wallum landscape— and specifically the Long-nosed Potoroo where he is a preeminent expert. The Long-nosed Potoroo is listed as Vulnerable under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
‘With his evidence back on the record, the Court will now have a clearer picture of the environmental and cultural value of this unique site,’ said a spokesperson. ‘We’ll continue to push for the protection of this rare habitat.’
Love the planet
With all funds raised going to support Save Wallum’s legal challenge, the Love The Planet festival at Mullumbimby has just released its full program.
Organisers say, ‘It’s bursting with music, nature, art, and community connection. With something for everyone, the day will feature a vibrant mix of live music, sustainability workshops, kids activities and local learning, all while raising funds to protect the beautiful Wallum landscape in Brunswick Heads.’
The program kicks off at 10am and runs until 9pm on Saturday, 26 April at Mullumbimby Civic Hall, with kids 12 under 12 free and discounted teen tickets.
‘This isn’t just a festival – it’s a movement,’ said event organiser Raychel French.
‘Love The Planet celebrates nature, resilience, and our collective power to protect threatened places like the Wallum. Bringing community together in celebration and solidarity is at the heart of what we do.’
Find out more here: https://www.savewallum.com/event-details/love-the-planet-2025.
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. 
