UPDATE: The Clarence Valley Council has just voted in favor of opposing the Minns Government’s recent decision to end native forest harvesting and establish the Great Koala National Park. The vote, held on November 20, 2025, passed with a decisive 7-2 majority, causing an uproar of applause from local timber industry supporters present in the Maclean Council Chambers.
This urgent decision comes on the heels of immense community concerns about the potential loss of jobs and businesses, as well as increased bushfire risks associated with the proposed 176,000 hectares transition of State Forest to National Park. The council aims to communicate their opposition directly to key government officials, including the Premier and local MPs.
Councillor Allison Bryant spearheaded this critical motion, which not only opposes the government’s proposal but also seeks to encourage neighboring councils to join in solidarity against the plan. Speaking in support, Donna Layton, a local business representative from Marshall Notaras Hardwoods, passionately argued that the timber industry is vital for the community’s economic health. “To have Council support us is really important because we are fighting for the timber industry and for the people whose livelihoods depend on it,” she stated.
Despite the strong support for the motion, Deputy Mayor Greg Clancy and Councillor Lynne Cairns voiced opposition, describing the motion as misleading and highlighting that the establishment of the Great Koala National Park is a promise made during the 2023 State Election. Clancy acknowledged job losses but also pointed to the potential for new employment opportunities within the National Parks and tourism sectors.
The vote’s outcome has sparked a divide within the community. Supporter Barbara Winters expressed her belief in the long-term benefits of the Great Koala National Park despite acknowledging the short-term pain it may cause. “We need this for our future,” she said, emphasizing the value of preserving nature and the local koala population.
Looking ahead, the Clarence Valley Council plans to forge alliances with other local councils—including Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, and Nambucca—to bolster their opposition to the native forest harvesting cessation. They are also committed to developing a North Coast Timber Industry Manufacturing Revival plan, aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of the proposed park.
As this situation unfolds, the council remains focused on advocating for the timber industry’s future and the well-being of its community. Local timber workers expressed gratitude for the council’s support, stating, “There is still a lot of campaigning to do,” as they continue to fight for their livelihoods in the face of possible changes.
The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated: the future of the timber industry and the economic stability of the Clarence Valley hangs in the balance as the council and its supporters rally against the decisions made by the Minns Government.
