Minister recognises “significant” tourism threat to wilderness at Lake Malbena, campaigners say

The Wilderness Society says the federal environment minster has acknowledged that a proposed tourism development in the state’s central highlands will affect the pristine nature of the area.

• Talking Point: Don’t develop Lake Malbena — keep Reg Hall’s vision alive
• Hundreds pledge to protest forests under threat from logging

THE federal government has recognised the huge impact a proposed development in the state's central highlands would have on the area, the Wilderness Society says.

Environment Minister Sussan Ley has released her for making a proposed tourism development at Halls Island in Lake Malbena a controlled action under Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.

Ms Ley said the proposal would affect wilderness values, “create noise and visual disturbance” and “potentially significantly impact” wedge-tailed eagles.

Fishers and Walkers Against Helicopter Access Jane Berriman, Wilderness Society Craig Ling and Wilderness Society Tasmania campaign manager Tom Allen. Picture Chris Kidd

Wilderness Society spokesman Tom Allen said many people were concerned at the potential for the proposed development to affect the values of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

“It’s not possible for this helicopter-tourism proposal to proceed without it degrading wilderness and World Heritage values. Tourism that protects, respects, even restores, natural values like wilderness is what Tasmania should be a world-leader in, not privatising national parks,” he said.

Follow @DavidJKillick