Forest logging debate at South Woy Woy in 1981

I recently found a document from May 25, 1981, that may be of historical interest as it mentions many people who were political and environmental leaders in those times.

It is a press release from the Woy Woy branch of the Australian Labor Party, which I wrote as branch secretary, regarding a rainforest debate.

"The Woy Woy branch of the ALP was pleased with the good attendance at the recent rainforest logging debate held at South Woy Woy," the press release said.

"The branch has organized public meetings to discuss topics of public concern in the past, including such topics as solar energy, uranium mining and aboriginal land rights.

"The rainforest meeting was well attended by members of the public as well as ALP and community leaders including Mr Keith O'Connell MP, Alderman Bill Hecker, Alderman Bob Bell, Mr and Mrs Allen Strom, Mr Dave Abbott, President of the South Woy Woy Progress Association and Mr Maurie Egan, President of Koolewong Progress Association.

"The meeting was chaired by branch president Mr Laurie Fenton and guest speakers included Ms Penny Figgis, of the Rainforest Action Centre, tutor of Government Sydney University, Mr Milo Dunphy, president of the Total Environment Centre and vice-president of the Australian Conservation Foundation and Mr Keith Jordan of the Country Sawmillers Association of NSW.

"Mr Dunphy claimed the Washpool Forest on the North Coast was the largest intact rainforest in NSW and the largest intact coachwood reserve in the world.

"He also claimed NSW has lost three quarters of its rainforest and that total forest commitment will utilize all of NSW rainforests.

"He said regenerated forests are impoverished shadows of their former selves.

"In regard to employment in those important areas, alternate strategies have been supplied to the state government by the conservation movement, he said.

"Mr Keith Jordan, Country Sawmillers spokesperson, said that 10 years of logging would only affect 15 per cent of rainforests and that there were predictions that there would be better rainforests regenerated.

"The timber industry has also helped to develop state forests to conserve timber needs.

"He stressed regeneration of forests and claimed that Australian native forests regenerate better than the replanting of forest.

He agreed pressures put upon the Forestry Commission by environmentalists have been for the good and that growth rates of forests are now being studied to determine supply.

"All speakers agreed that reafforestation and rehabilitation of marginal farmland is an admirable concept.

"Federal tax concessions for tree planting on farms and private property should be implemented also."

Letter, 14 Nov 2018

Keith Whitfield, Woy Woy