THE Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove communities are organising a rally this weekend to protest at the commencement of works by VicRoads at the Barwon Heads estuary. The rally will be at the Barwon Heads Foreshore on Sunday June 7 from 12noon.
“A large turnout from both Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove is expected, as many people still want to show their disgust at the damage this project will cause,” said Michael Harbour, president of Ocean Grove Community Association.
“Our beaches, the fragile spit and the whole river mouth will be affected by this project,” he said.
Geoffrey Waite President of the Barwon Heads Association said that the community is amazed that this project is proceding in the proposed form. “We cannot understand why the Brumby Government is so intent on building 2 road bridges in this precious and environmentally sensitive part of Victoria. We have witnessed serious deterioration in the Spit area over the last few months with large trees falling into the sea. This area cannot sustain further removal of vegetation and major engineering works.”
Mr Harbour stated his surprise that there had been no further contact from VicRoads on the project, except for a very general newsletter which had been delivered to some residents of the two towns.
“We now have over 4000 signatures on the register against the two bridges and concern expressed from scientists, environmentalists, bridge experts and Heritage leaders that this is a flawed concept that should not proceed.”
Mr Harbour said that people are prepared to picket against the project and there will be a further opportunity to volunteer at the rally.
“We are not trying to completely stop this project but get a sensible outcome.
“In fact both the community leaders thank the unions for their support and say that building a single bridge would have provided as many jobs and a result that workers would be more proud of.”
The rally is at the Barwon Heads car park.
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