The flight path chosen by the proponents of a luxury wilderness venture inside Tasmania’s wilderness world heritage area will avoid disturbing other users of the Walls of Jerusalem National Park, says the state government.
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The proposed development on Halls Island, Lake Malbena would include guest accommodation and helicopter access to the area.
The federal government approved the proposal in early September.
This meant the project could proceed as planned, as it was found to pose no threat to matter of Natural Environment Significance.
The proposal was assessed by the federal Environment Department against the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act.
A newly formed group called Fishers and Walkers Against Helicopter Access will lobby against the decision, which they believe will impact on the experience visitors will have in the national park.
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Spokesperson Brett Smith said the experience for locals and visitors would be finished by helicopters buzzing overhead, especially for those seeking a true remote experience.
However, the state government spokesperson said the rules that applied to landings were extremely robust.
“Approval is required under the 2016 Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area management plan, approved by the Commonwealth and accepted by the World Heritage Committee,” they said.
“The Parks and Wildlife Service has been working closely with the proponent to mitigate any impacts to other people using this part of the World Heritage Area and impacts to the natural environment.
“The proponent has identified a flight path that avoids disturbing people and they have referred the proposal to the Commonwealth government to ensure that the approach has no impact on Matters of National Environmental Significance, including wilderness values.”
The state government welcomed the federal government’s decision on the Lake Malbena standing camp proposal.
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