AUKUS
UPDATE: Revelations of new regulations restricting fishing and boating around Garden Island have triggered an uproar, leading to a planned protest flotilla set for next weekend, October 14, 2023. The West Australian reported that recent government actions could render key fishing areas off-limits, intensifying anti-AUKUS sentiments as local residents express their concerns.
The Albanese Government’s introduction of regulations impacting the HMAS Stirling naval base has raised alarms among fishing enthusiasts and environmental advocates. These regulations, signed by Defence Minister Richard Marles, are meant to prepare for the deployment of US and British submarines by 2027. A newly released map indicates that the waters surrounding Garden Island are included in a designated zone, raising fears about public access to popular fishing spots.
Organizers of the “Stop AUKUS WA Reclaim the Sound” rally, including Leonie Lundy, emphasize solidarity with Cockburn Sound users and the local fishing community. “We’ve known for some time that the whole of Garden Island could be impacted,” Lundy stated. She criticized the government’s lack of transparency, highlighting that the group submitted inquiries regarding the regulations two months ago but received no response.
Greens Senator David Shoebridge has condemned the regulations, claiming they create Australia’s first nuclear waste dump in a beloved recreational area. “If Labor does not intend to use this land for nuclear material, then why have they so clearly included these public access sites into the map?” he questioned.
In stark contrast, Resources Minister Madeleine King dismissed the Greens’ concerns as a “stupid scare campaign.” Taking to social media on Saturday, she reassured the public that Garden Island remains open for activities such as swimming, fishing, and picnicking. “Everyone can continue to go for a swim, get out the flippers & mask and for a skindive,” King declared.
A spokesperson from the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator emphasized that the restrictions represent a regulatory boundary. Fishing, boating, and swimming are still permitted, despite the new designations. However, the regulator confirmed that low-level radioactive waste from AUKUS submarines can now be managed within this newly defined zone.
Lundy and other advocates remain wary of potential environmental impacts due to increased activity around Cockburn Sound. “The recreational fishing community should be concerned about the direct environmental impact nuclear waste could have on the environment,” she warned.
As the situation develops, tensions around the AUKUS agreement and its local implications are reaching a boiling point. With a community flotilla rally scheduled for next weekend, the eyes of the nation will be on Garden Island as residents rally against perceived threats to their beloved fishing grounds. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
