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Franklin River. Martin Eriksson. Lake Peddder. Lake Pedder was an issue between the Hydro Electric Scheme (HEC) and environmentalists. The HEC had the full support of the Tasmanian State Government
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Franklin River Martin Eriksson
Lake Peddder • Lake Pedder was an issue between the Hydro Electric Scheme (HEC) and environmentalists. • The HEC had the full support of the Tasmanian State Government • The two environmentalist groups (South West Committee and Lake Pedder Action Group) banded together to form the Tasmanian Wilderness Society. • TWS lost the campaign and the dam was built.
TWS After Lake Pedder • Although the campaign was lost, the TWS became stronger, wiser and more organised to fight future battles such as the Franklin River.
The Franklin Issue • The Hydro Electric Commission (HEC), backed by the State Government wanted to dam the Franklin River. • The TWS did not want the dam to go ahead.
Why The HEC Wanted The Dam • It was predicted that there would be an increase in industry. • This would require Tasmania to double its power production over the next 10 years. • The project would create many jobs as unemployment was high. • Boost the economy.
Why The Dam Should Not Occur • The River and the surrounding ancient forest would be gone forever. • This area was relatively pristine and very beautiful. • Every other major river in the state had already been dammed. • The dam would provide jobs only in the short term.
What Did Tasmanians Want? • In the beginning most of Tasmania was happy to have a new hydro scheme to create jobs, provide cheap electricity, and improve the economy. • They were unaware of what was to be sacrificed.
What Did TWS Do? • They protested to gather support for the campaign against the dam, by marching with banners and having particular speakers. • Every time they protested the rallies became larger and larger. • TWS organised workshops for its members to ensure non violent protests.
What Did TWS Do? (Cont) • TWS were aware that people needed to see or even experience the natural environment to understand why it was worth saving. • They gained media attention across Australia so people could become more aware and gain support from the Federal Government.
What Did TWS Do? (Cont) • They began running rafting tours down the Franklin to show people. • They invited influential people who might be able to help them. • Senator Don Chipp (leader of the Democrats), Jack Evans and Norm Sanders were of those invited.
What Did The Queenstown People Do? • They created their own interest group OTD (Organisation for Tasmanian Development). • This was to gain their own support from the wider community.
World Heritage List • In 1981 South West Tasmania was nominated by the federal government. • In 1982 it was officially listed. • This meant international pressure to conserve the area. • The Franklin was in the heart of the WHA.
Referendum • In 1982 a referendum was held to decide between the two different hydro schemes. • TWS launched ‘No Dams’ campaign. • Voters to write ‘no dams’ on ballot paper rather than choose a hydro scheme. • 33% of votes read ‘no dams’.
Construction v’s Blockade • Despite these pressures the State Gov’t began construction of the dam in 1982. • Environmentalists performed a peaceful blockade resulting in the arrest of around 1400 people including David Bellamy and Bob Brown. • These two in particular generated valuable publicity around the world.
Election Time • In 1983 a Federal Election occurred. • The Federal Government saw some easy votes if they stopped the damming. • Bob Hawke leader of the Aust Labour Party promised to stop damming if voted in as Prime Minister.
State v’s Federal • Hawke was elected and made efforts to stop the dam. • Federal Gov’t instructed the Tasmanian Gov’t to stop damming. • They refused and continued.
High Court Ruling • The issue between State and Federal Gov’t was taken to the High Court. • A High Court Ruling was made to stop the damming and construction ceased in 1983.
Bibliography • Black, Geary, Gough & Pleasants (2002) Outdoor & Enviro Studies – VCE Units 1-4 • The Franklin Dams Case Video