Disgrace

By John, posted by Tracy

Yet again, the "Department", in their infinite wisdom, have destroyed vast areas of native bushland in Western Australia, killing animals and plants, and putting people's lives at risk. This is a yearly ritual, and the fires induced by so-called prescribed burnings done irresponsibly and without sufficient thought, result in catastrophic outcomes.

See this story.

Wanton destruction of native forests

Said by John, typed up by Tracy

The whole Avon Valley is blanketed in smoke at the moment as a result of bushfires in the south.

The most disgraceful aspect of the 10,000 ha of old-growth & other native forest that are being destroyed around the Walpole area is that they are the result of "controlled burns" that have got out of hand.

Government authorities are often responsible for these devastating fires, it seems -- in so many cases, the so-called "prescribed burns" are destructive and senseless, and this is another example of the broader consequences that can come of such actions. Even though it was obviously not part of the intention, surely those carrying out the burns are aware of the possibility that the fire may "escape" their control. Some kind of accountability must be had here.

Bushfires

By John and Tracy

Like everyone else, we are overwhelmed with sadness at the disaster that has taken place in Victoria over this last week, and want only to express our condolences and support for everyone affected.

There are practical ways of helping: you can donate money through various means, including the following (courtesy Sydney Morning Herald):

Red Cross Call 1800 811 700 or go to redcross.org.au

Salvation Army Call 137 258 or go to salvos.org.au

NAB relief fund call 136 622

and the Bendigo Bank and Australia Post Office here where we live are also accepting donations, so we assume that would be the case elsewhere too. Myer stores are apparently accepting donations, and some charities will take goods (clothing etc).