Gosnells residents are behind a march in Perth this Sunday, March 22, calling for the protection of the Jarrah Forest.
Local conservationist Paddy Cullen is organising the “March for the Forest”, with participants set to gather at Forest Place at 10am before marching through the CBD and returning to the starting point.
The event, starting by 10am, is part of a National Day of Action, with 14 marches planned across the country.
“Australia made a commitment at the UN to end and reverse deforestation by 2030. It’s time to honour that promise,” he said, adding that “that was really a promise to ourselves to protect the water supply for ourselves and future generations.”
Participants are encouraged to bring black umbrellas to form a giant black cockatoo during the march.
Gosnells resident Unice Robinson us also calling on people to attend.
“We have to do this or there will be no black cockatoos and nothing for our children,” she said.
Mr Cullen said the march aims to highlight concerns about bauxite mining in Jarrah Forest and its potential impacts.
“The Environmental Protection Authority is currently deciding whether to allow Alcoa to expand their operations or to save the forest. We have to let the government know how we feel,” he said.
In a letter to Mr Cullen, the State Government confirmed low levels of PFAS had been detected in Serpentine and South Dandalup dams, but said they were below Australian Drinking Water Guidelines and there was no indication Perth’s drinking water had been impacted.
Community members are encouraged to attend the march on Sunday.
