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Parks


Liberals Fail Climate, Environment Once Again

Governments have a moral responsibility to protect intact habitat and build carbon stores, but that’s not reflected in this year’s State Budget.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  25 May 2023


Parliament House, Tasmania

Greens Back Wilderness Dark Sky Sanctuary

With its large tracts of unspoiled wilderness, lutruwita/Tasmania is an ideal location for a Dark Sky Sanctuary.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  31 May 2023


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Wild Drake's Non Response to Thousands of Tasmanians

Wild Drake Pty Ltd’s wannabe heli-tourism proponent has delivered yet another insult to the intelligence of reasonable, wilderness loving Tasmanians

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Apr 2023


Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area Turns 40

The declaration of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area on 14 December 1982 established the nation’s first World Heritage property.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  14 Dec 2022


kunanyi / Mount Wellington

Greens Welcome News Kunanyi is Safe – For Now

The Greens are delighted by news TasCAT’s decision to reject the proposed cable car for kunanyi will not be appealed to the Supreme Court.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Dec 2022


kunanyi / Mount Wellington

Rockliff Liberals Refuse to Rule Out Further Cable Car Facilitation 

When the Greens asked the Premier to rule out further law changes to facilitate the Liberals’ pet project in Parliament this morning, he refused.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  9 Nov 2022


Aboriginal Flag

Nature Conservation Act 2002 - Approval of Proclamations

The point is, we are not here speaking for ourselves. We are here on behalf of ALCT bringing their concerns to this place.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  27 Oct 2022


Lower Chasm Falls, Smoko Creek, in the Great Western Tiers, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Nature Conservation Act 2002 - Approval of Proclamations

The whole process in relation to this proclamation has been disrespectful of Tasmanian Aboriginal people and disrespectful of the Aboriginal Land Council.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  27 Oct 2022


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Estimates Reply - Petrusma

Today I will mostly focus on the Parks area of minister Petrusma's multiple portfolios.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  15 Jun 2022


Lake St Claire, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Central Highlands, Tasmania

Parks – Lake St Clair Visitor Centre

Is it true what we have heard that the sewerage system at the Lake St Clair Visitor Centre complex is not fit for purpose?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


Bureaucracy, Professional with Paperwork

Parks – Maria Island Management Plan

Will the public submissions made the Parks and Wildlife Service in to the development of the draft Maria Island Management Plan be made available to the public?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


Parliament House, Tasmania

Parks – Kanunnah Bridge

$2 million the budget document states funding will be allocated to strengthen the Kanunnah Bridge.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Parks – Tasmanian Walking Company Marketing

Are you able to tell the committee how much Parks and Wildlife has paid to the Tasmanian Walking Company for marketing?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


Bushfire, Active Blaze

Parks – Fire Management

I understand that there is no fire ecologist position yet in place for the whole of the Parks' fire program.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Parks – Pumphouse Point

Is Pumphouse Point for sale and is that for the lease or licence or is this sale the conversion of Crown land to freehold land?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


Parks – South Coast Track Proposal

I want to talk about the South Coast Track proposal of a luxury lodge development and associated infrastructure by Experience Co.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


Bureaucracy, Professional with Paperwork

Parks – Jason Jacobi Contract Renewal

This is a slightly awkward question because the person I am going to ask you a question about is sitting at the table.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Jun 2022


South Coast Track Luxury Lodge Development - Aboriginal Heritage Report

In my hand is a right to information document that is 738 pages long with 658 pages, unsurprisingly, fully redacted.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  25 May 2022


Public Meeting, Town Hall

Greens, Conservationists Ready to Fight Privatisation of South Coast Track

To privitise and sanitise the South Coast Track would destroy its integrity and the increasingly rare experience of wild-ness.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Feb 2022


Three Capes Track, Tasmania

Parks - Tyndall Ranges, Next Iconic Walk

The independent report shows the cost of that walk is actually going to cost $37 million to create.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Sep 2021


Protest, Climate Emergency

Resources - Anti-Protest Legislation

Is it your Government's intention also to prohibit protest, lock people up, slap them with huge fines if they're defending public protected areas?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Sep 2021


Parliament House, Tasmania

State Growth - Mount Roland Cable Car

Are you able to update the committee on the proposed privatisation of part of Mount Roland and the cable car proposal by a private developer?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  8 Sep 2021


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Greens Table Legislation to Improve Transparency on Public Protected Areas

​​​​​​​The Greens tabled the Right to Information (Public Protected Areas) Amendment Bill 2021 in Parliament today.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Jul 2021


Lower Chasm Falls, Smoko Creek, in the Great Western Tiers, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Gutwein Deaf to UNESCO Calls for Wilderness Protection

It’s clear the World Heritage Committee’s concerns about the EOI process have not been assuaged by the government’s Tourism Master Plan. In fact, far from it.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Jun 2021


kunanyi / Mount Wellington

Greens Table Bills to Repeal Liberals’ Cable Car Facilitation

The Greens will always support a wild kunanyi.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Jun 2021


Lake St Claire, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Central Highlands, Tasmania

Greens' Plan to Better Protect Parks and Promote Sustainable Tourism

Lutruwita/Tasmania’s world class national parks and reserves are under threat from a Liberal Government that can only see the dollar signs they bring in. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Apr 2021


kunanyi / Mount Wellington

Archer, Haddad Must Rule Out Joining Cable Car Aboriginal Heritage Appeal

We expect both Elise Archer and Ella Haddad to rule out supporting joining the MWCC’s offensive, culturally insensitive Supreme Court appeal.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  30 Mar 2021


Wielangta, Tasmanian Forest Agreement Forest

Forestry Protests - Legislation

To demonise a group, that is one step down the road toward authoritarianism.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  24 Mar 2021


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Leaked DPIPWE Letter Confirms Anti-Protest Laws Designed to Crack Down on National Parks Protests

Leaked correspondence from February 2019 between then DPIPWE Secretary, John Whittington, to then Justice Secretary, Kathrine Morgan-Wicks makes clear the start

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Mar 2021


Rosny Hill, Rosny, Tasmania

Jaensch Must Return Rosny Hill to the Community

All eyes are now on Environment Minister, Roger Jaensch, who will sign off on the release of the Rosny Hill Nature Recreation Area.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  10 Dec 2020


Swift Parrot

Estimates Reply – Minister Jaensch

There was only an hour available to scrutinise the minister for all of his responsibilities for protecting critically endangered species and habitat.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Dec 2020


Bushfire, Active Blaze

Environment and Parks – Fuel Reduction Burning

We have information from within Parks that planned burns are not always being undertaken in a strategic way.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  25 Nov 2020


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Tourism – Lake Malbena

There is huge public unrest over the Government's decision to privatise Halls Island and Reg Hall's Hut for a total to the proponent of $115 per week.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 Nov 2020


Bureaucracy, Professional with Paperwork

Tourism - Tourism Industry Council Tasmania Accreditation

The government makes Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania accreditation mandatory for operators in parks and tourism signage.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  23 Nov 2020


Lower Chasm Falls, Smoko Creek, in the Great Western Tiers, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

The Environment and Parks Portfolios

The EPA has been given its marching orders by government and that is to prioritise industry.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Nov 2020


Freycinet National Park, Tasmania

The Environment and Parks Portfolios

Last year, members had five hours to scrutinise the Minister for Environment and Parks. What we have now is two hours in the current schedule.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Nov 2020


House of Assembly, Tasmania

Motion to Establish Budget Estimates Committees

Last year in Estimates there were five hours allocated to Environment and Parks. That was cut this year to a total of two hours.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  11 Nov 2020


Parliament House, Tasmania

Labor and Liberals Unite to Axe Environmental Estimates Scrutiny

Labor and the Liberals have today united to drastically cut the time allocated in Budget Estimates to scrutinise key government portfolios.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Nov 2020


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Greens Table Petition to Protect Parks

The Greens today proudly tabled a petition signed by nearly 2,000 people to protect Tasmania’s National Parks and Reserves from privatisation.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Oct 2020


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Halls Island, Lake Malbena Development

A large and growing constituency of Tasmanians from every possible walk of life are opposed to the privatisation of Halls Island in Lake Malbena.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  15 Oct 2020


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Auditor General Confirms Corrupted EOI Process for Development in Protected Areas

The Auditor-General’s Report into the Expressions of Interest process for Tourism Investment Opportunities is a damning assessment of the EOI and RAA process.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Sep 2020


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Lake Malbena EPBC Assessment a Reprieve for the Wilderness

The Federal Environment Minister’s determination that the Lake Malbena luxury helicopter tourism development warrants a formal assessment is welcome. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Sep 2020


Bushfire, Active Blaze

Jaensch Leaves Parks' Tanks Half Full, Unprepared for Bushfire

Tasmanians will be left feeling disturbed after Minister Jaensch confirmed Parks and Wildlife's current vehicle fleet is unfit for fighting bushfires. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Sep 2020


Bushfire, Active Blaze

Bushfire Season - Replacement of Parks and Wildlife Service Vehicles

We are concerned about the preparedness of the Parks and Wildlife Service to tackle fires in wilderness and remote regions.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  17 Sep 2020


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Wilderness Defenders Will Never Give Up on Lake Malbena

The development at Halls Island in the Walls of Jerusalem National Park is a travesty of proper process.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  28 Jul 2020


Franklin River, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Unlocking of Green Spaces Welcome

The Greens welcome the Premier’s announcement that Tasmania’s green spaces will be open to locals from this coming Monday. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 May 2020


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

TWWHA Tourism Master Plan Submission

The draft Tourism Master Plan does not fulfil the purpose as described by UNESCO.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Submission  |  9 Apr 2020


kunanyi / Mount Wellington

Liberals Must Rule Out Cable Car as Major Project

The Liberals’ announcement they plan to table major projects legislation has sent ripples of worry through the community.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Mar 2020


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Liberals Must Release Details of All EOI Proposals

Tasmanians have a right to know what their government is doing on their behalf – especially when it comes to public lands.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Jan 2020


Rosny Hill, Rosny, Tasmania

Rosny Hill Development Approval

The approval of plans to privatise the Rosny Hill Recreation Area is a slap in the face to the local community.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  23 Jan 2020


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Liberals' Blatant EOI Greenwash Attempt

The Hodgman Government are spending $40 000 of public funds on this study to try to take the heat out of their privatisation of public protected areas.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  12 Dec 2019


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Lake Malbena Decision a Mess of the Liberals' Making

The Federal Court’s has decided to set aside the determination that the Lake Malbena proposal was not a ‘controlled action’.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Nov 2019


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Lake Malbena Development Application

The Tasmanian Greens submission to the Lake Malbena development application to the Central Highlands Council.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Submission  |  15 Feb 2019


Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

Reserve Activity Assessment Process for Developments in Parks

Understands Tasmania’s National Parks and Reserves are protected for their outstanding natural and cultural values.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  30 Oct 2019


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

EOI Process in National Parks and Reserves

Cassy O'Connor speaks against the Liberals' motion to support the Liberals' EOI Process for tourism developments in Parks and Reserves.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  30 Oct 2019


Pills

Labor Leadership Failure

In a time of climate emergency and growing social inequality, political parties need to work together to advance the public interest.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Sep 2019


Franklin River, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Estimates Reply - Premier

They have let short-stay accommodation listings expand unchecked, underinvested in social and affordable housing, and underinvested in the health system.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  11 Jun 2019


Green Economics

Greens Release Future-Focussed Alternative Budget

Today we proudly delivered the Tasmanian Greens’ fully costed, long-term vision for Tasmania, our Alternative Budget 2019-20. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  29 May 2019


Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

TWWHA Tourism Master Plan Under Conflict of Interest Cloud

The Liberals’ corrupted EOI process for tourism development within Parks and Reserves is under yet another cloud.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  2 May 2019


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

World Heritage Area - Tourism Master Plan - Alleged Conflict of Interest

The Minister failed to answer the question about your private consultant's conflict of interest with drafting the Tourism Master Plan.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  2 May 2019


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

World Heritage Area - Tourism Master Plan

The successful tenderer responsible for drafting the master plan is a private consultant who is being engaged at a cost of more $300,000 to the taxpayer.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  2 May 2019


kunanyi / Mount Wellington

Leonie Hiscutt MLC in Political La-La Land

The Leader of Government Business in the Legislative Council, Leonie Hiscutt MLC, is in political la-la land if she thinks Labor stands for the environment.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Mar 2019


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Lake Malbena Rejection Exposes EOI Process as a Sham

The Central Highlands Council have listened to the overwhelming community opposition to the proposal for Lake Malbena.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Feb 2019


Aboriginal Flag

Wilderness Lost and Heritage at Risk if Lake Malbena Proposal Proceeds

The case against the proposal for helicopter-accessed luxury huts at Lake Malbena in the World Heritage Area grows stronger by the day.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Nov 2018


Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

Liberals' Wilderness Wrecking a National Disgrace

An in depth report details the extreme threat the Liberals’ commercialisation and privatisation agenda poses to the Tasmanian wilderness.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Nov 2018


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Premier Must Explain Why Advisory Council Advice Was Ignored on Walls of Jerusalem Proposal

The Greens today tabled a leaked copy of the National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Committee’s submission to the Federal Government.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Oct 2018


Three Capes Track, Tasmania

The Eco-tourism Lie of the Three Capes Luxury Lodges

One of the great coastal wilderness areas is diminished, with the launch today of Tasmanian Walking Company’s luxury lodges in the Tasman National Park.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Sep 2018


Freycinet National Park, Tasmania

Record National Parks Visitors Reinforce Need to Protect Wilderness Values

While being able to share our protected areas with visitors is a positive, the Liberals’ ever increasing growth model puts them at risk. 

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Sep 2018


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Private Developer Given Tick for Development in the Walls of Jerusalem

The Liberals’ planned death by a thousand cuts for Tasmania’s wilderness took a step forward today.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  3 Sep 2018


kunanyi / Mount Wellington

Hodgman Refuses to Rule Out Further Support for Cable Car

In Parliament today, the Premier refused to rule out further tangible support for the proposed cable car.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Aug 2018


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Lake Malbena - Anglers Alliance Tasmania's Concerns about the TWWHA

The Coordinator-General recommended approval of the Lake Malbena project in 2015, despite it being prohibited under the 1999 management plan.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Jun 2018


Halls Island on Lake Malbena, Walls of Jerusalem Nationa Park, Tasmania

Lake Malbena - Development in the TWWHA

We have here a leaked copy of the reserve activity assessment for the Lake Malbena proposal.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  12 Jun 2018


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Liberals Plundering Protected Areas, Underfunding Parks

The Liberals’ announcement today of funding for Parks’ infrastructure is more about corporate welfare and special favours to developers.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  21 Feb 2018


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Parks Funding Trade-off for Commercial Exploitation

Under the Liberals this money is about allowing for the increased commercial exploitation of public protected areas.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  16 Sep 2017


Franklin River, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Environment and Parks Last in State Budget

The State Budget, like the Liberals’ previous Budgets, has an obvious loser - our environment and Parks.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  26 May 2017


Fish Farm, Macquarie Harbor

Salmon Farming - Damage to World Heritage Area in Macquarie Harbour

Huon Aquaculture revealed evidence that the Macquarie Harbour salmon farming dead zone has spread one kilometre into the TWWHA.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  15 Mar 2017


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Premier Misleads Tasmanians over Crown Land Giveaways

On radio this morning, the Premier misled Tasmanians over what is becoming a private developer feeding frenzy over public Crown Land assets.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  24 Mar 2017


Aboriginal Flag

Liberals Show Two Faces on Aboriginal Heritage

The bill tabled in Parliament today is both a lost opportunity and a clear sign that the Liberals wear two faces on Aboriginal heritage issues.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Mar 2017


Fish Farm, Macquarie Harbor

Liberals Required to Act on TWWHA Damage to Macquarie Harbour

Environment Minister, Matthew Groom must protect the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area from further damage from salmon farming.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  15 Mar 2017


Wielangta, Tasmanian Forest Agreement Forest

2017 State of the State Address in Reply

We are now living through a time when the environmental challenges we are facing as an island and as a community are very, very significant.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  8 Mar 2017


Shaking Hands

Cable Car Land Deal Smells Like Cronyism

kunanyi/Mt Wellington should be protected for its outstanding natural and cultural values, not carved up to suit a single developer pushing a divisive project.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  26 Feb 2017


Fish Farm, Macquarie Harbor

Potential Tassal TWWHA Damage Demands Federal Action

The Tassal CEO yesterday publicly told Tasmanians that Tassal's operations in Macquarie Harbour had polluted the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Feb 2017


Bushfire, Burned Forest

One Year After Devastating Fires, Sluggish Response from Hodgman Government

From 13 January to 15 March last year, dry lightning strikes sparked 145 fires that burned approximately 126 800 hectares across the State.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  13 Jan 2017


Bushfire, Burned Forest

TWWHA Bushfire Report Confirms Urgent Need for Fire Fighting Investment

The Greens welcome Dr Tony Press’ Report into last January’s fires in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  20 Dec 2016


Three Capes Track, Tasmania

Liberals Refuse to Rule Out Logging in Wielangta Tourist Drive

The Hodgman Government's plans to extend the Great Eastern Drive by upgrading Wielangta Road are threatened by their own political agenda.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  16 Nov 2016


Log Pile at the Port of Burnie, Tasmania

Warped Liberal Priorities Put Tourism at Risk

Parks Minister, Matthew Groom’s Parks 21 progress report today comes on the heels of yesterday's Auditor General's report into Parks and Wildlife funding.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  16 Nov 2016


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Auditor General Report on Parks Makes Strong Case for Increased Funding

A report from the State's Auditor General on Park Management makes it clear Tasmania's world class national parks and reserves are under-funded.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Nov 2016


Risdon Brook Reservoir, Tasmania

Greens Table Peter Murrell Reserve Petition

I had the pleasure of tabling a petition in Parliament today opposing the TasWater pipeline being proposed to cut through the Peter Murrell Conservation Area.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Oct 2016


Franklin River, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Welcome Backflip on Macquarie Island Research Station

The Greens warmly welcome the announcement of a continuing year-round presence on Macquarie Island, and thank all who contributed to the decision.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  16 Sep 2016


Franklin River, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Premier Failing on Macquarie Island Travesty

While his Federal Liberal colleagues first slashed jobs at the CSIRO in Hobart, the Premier was reduced to wringing his hands and expressing his disappointment.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  14 Sep 2016


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Greens Release Sensible Guide for Tourism in Protected Areas

The Tasmanian Greens today released a guide to sustainable tourism that ensures wilderness and cultural heritage protection are prioritised.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  11 Sep 2016


Franklin River, Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area

Centenary of National Parks Highlights Failures of Minister

Parks Minister, Matthew Groom, should admit Tasmania's protected areas are under unprecedented threat as a result of Liberal policies.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Aug 2016


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

More Secrecy Over Parks EOIs

It was disappointing today to have Minister Groom decline to explain the Net Public Benefit test his department uses.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  8 Jun 2016


Money, Australian Dollars, Notes

State Budget 2016: Parks Funding Slashed and Burnt

Tthe Budget papers show more than $6 million cut from an already underfunded Parks and Wildlife Service across the forward Estimates.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  1 Jun 2016


Bushfire, Burned Forest

Parks Minister Exposed for Gutting PWS Bushfire Funding

The Budget papers show a more than $6M cut to the Parks and Wildlife Service across the forward estimates.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Jun 2016


Green Economics

Tasmanian Greens' Alternative Budget

We recognise that genuine planning for the 21st century requires a long term vision and the courage to make bold decisions to drive change.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  31 May 2016


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Sustainable Tourism Way Forward for Tassie

The Greens welcome the visitors that are coming to our shores, but warn the government to protect our wild places and regional communities from ruin.

Andrea Dawkins  |  Media Release  |  12 May 2016


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Liberals See Tasmania's Wilderness Only For its Economic Value

The budget papers show a massive cut to Commonwealth funding for the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  4 May 2016


Swift Parrot

No Respect From Disinterested Liberal Ministers

When the minister got to his feet, I thought he was going to respond but he made no mention of this bird that is in his care.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  3 May 2016


Economy, Finance, Calculator, Pen and Graph

Premier's Failure in Canberra Sees Tasmania Left Off the Budget Map

There was nothing in the Federal Budget for Tasmania's education system, no extra funding for years 5 and 6 of Gonski.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  4 May 2016


Freycinet National Park, Tasmania

Liberals' Development-at-any-Cost Stance Threatens Coles Bay

Last year the proposed changes to the Freycinet National Park were explained as necessary for the Freycinet Lodge to expand.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  28 Apr 2016


Bushfire, Active Blaze

Bushfire Inquiry A Whitewash

The Bushfire Inquiry findings paint over the devastation of the summer bushfires in the World Heritage Area. It's as though they never existed.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  27 Apr 2016


Freycinet National Park, Tasmania

Danger to Freycinet National Park Revealed

The full extent of the Liberals' destructive plan for the Freycinet National Park has been revealed by a group of concerned Coles Bay residents.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  24 Mar 2016


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Still No Answer from Groom on Bernacchi Lodge

How can you claim you have not breached the ministerial code of conduct and why should you not be referred to the Integrity Commission?

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  15 Mar 2016


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Groom Dodges Question on Breach of Ministerial Code of Conduct

Ministers must declare any conflict of interest in writing to the Premier as soon as possible after becoming aware of the conflict.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Parliamentary Activity  |  9 Mar 2016


Bushfire, Burned Forest

Burning Questions Unanswered over TWWHA Fires

It is clear from a Right to Information request we lodged that Mr Groom sat on his hands for at least two weeks after the fires began on 13 January.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Mar 2016


Bushfire, Burned Forest

Premier Misses Opportunity to Replace Groom

The Premier has missed a golden opportunity to place the Energy portfolio in the hands of a competent Minister in this time of energy crisis.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  18 Feb 2016


Bushfire, Active Blaze

A 'Review' into TWWHA Fires is a Cop Out

An independent inquiry that calls for expert input and submissions, along with public hearings and recommendations to be made public is clearly required.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Feb 2016


Freycinet National Park, Tasmania

Liberals' Freycinet Exploitation Plan

Parks’ Minister, Matthew Groom, is overseeing a sham consultation process to enable increased exploitation of the fragile Freycinet National Park.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  1 Feb 2016


Bushfire, Active Blaze

Significant Resourcing Needed to Save Alpine Wilderness

With weather conditions easing, this week is the critical week to stave off catastrophic damage to Tasmania’s priceless alpine and rainforest wilderness areas.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  25 Jan 2016


Freycinet National Park, Tasmania

Liberals Locking Up More National Parks

A proposal to double the footprint of Freycinet Lodge in to the Freycinet National Park is yet another Liberal lock up for a selected private developer.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Jan 2016


Three Capes Track, Tasmania

Three Capes Exclusive Monopoly

Not only are individuals being charged the hefty fee of $500 to walk the track, but established eco-tourism operators are being excluded.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  21 Dec 2015


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Groom's EOI Process a Shambles

Parks Minister, Matthew Groom, again has egg on his face, this time over his headlong rush to develop in Tasmania's National Parks and World Heritage Area.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  29 Nov 2015


Logged Forest, Tarkine

Liberal Greenwash Won't Fool Lonely Planet

Today the Greens signed a letter to Lonely Planet, in response to their travel advisory yesterday warning that Tasmania’s wilderness is under threat.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  6 Nov 2015


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Lonely Planet Hits Out at Hodgman Government

Travel Bible Lonely Planet has advised travellers to get in quick or miss out on Tasmania's pristine wilderness, "before compromises are made".

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  5 Nov 2015


kunanyi / Mount Wellington

'Open For Business' Ensures Cable Car Proponent's Easy Ride

'Open for business' means private developers can be assured they will be given ready access to public assets under this Liberal Government.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  4 Nov 2015


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Groom Reveals Arm End Entitlement

The government's helping hand in turning the state reserve at Arm End at South Arm over to developers of a private golf course has been revealed this morning.

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  |  Media Release  |  15 Oct 2015


Three Capes Track, Tasmania

Three Capes Access Still Clear as Mud

What Minister Groom proves every time he speaks is that the development in the Tasman National Park is really there for wealthy visitors.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  22 Sep 2015


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Groom Content to Pillage TWWHA

Minister Groom's obfuscating and empty statements about 'traditional industries' in question time reveal a stunning disregard for Tasmania's protected places.

Cassy O'Connor MP  |  Media Release  |  17 Sep 2015


Bureaucracy, Professional with Paperwork

P&W Service Job Cuts

Parks Minister Matthew Groom must intervene and stop the 25-30 Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) job cuts.

Nick Mckim  |  Media Release  |  26 Feb 2015


Overland Track, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Tasmania

Tasmanian Parks & Reserves

The agreement between the tourism industry and the Parks Service is a dangerous shift in the way Tasmania's World Heritage Area and National Parks are managed.

Nick Mckim  |  Media Release  |  7 Dec 2014