Killalea protest clash

THE community turned out in force over the weekend to protest the proposed development of Killalea State Park.

Over 170 people signed a petition objecting to the idea of portions of the park being leased for 52 years to a private company.

Organisers of the weekend's protest meeting are deeming it a success, saying they will continue their efforts to promote transparency of any deal and lobby to "save the park".

Organisers estimate about 200 people were on hand on Saturday morning to oppose any development at Killalea.

Kiama Deputy Mayor Howard Jones spoke of the frustration over the Killalea State Park Trust's confidentiality agreements and how these agreements affect transparency regarding development plans with council.

Greens parliamentarian Sylvia Hale stated that she had already formally requested that the Minister for Lands release information on the 52 year lease to the public.

The meeting saw a mixture of community members and groups unite and speak not only of Killalea but also their experience with different environmental issues in the Illawarra.

"It is inconceivable that governments are continuing to allow the quarry to increase its environmental damage and visible scar on the park's beach (the Farm) and its surrounds. These and other major developments beyond Killalea, including the proposed Marina and Foreshore development, which will be visible from the park, are intrinsically linked," said Sonya McKay, the Organiser of community group Illawarra Community and Environment Connection.

"It is a concern that governments are focused on major development of the area instead of saving the environment for future generations, particularly in an atmosphere of climate change," she said.

A Mobile Enviro-Resource Centre (MERC) caravan will be at the site again next Saturday, May 25 between 1 pm and 3 pm for people who would like to sign the parliamentary petition, offer support, or to gain more information on Killalea and its surrounds.

Ms McKay said Ms Hale would present a copy of the petition to Parliament in a formal effort to publicly advise the Minister for Lands Tony Kelly and the Minister for Planning Frank Sartor of the community's objections.