In some of my recent trips through the Otway Ranges south-west of Melbourne, the damage due to logging is becoming quite evident and alarming. Why are we destroying our wilderness, on our land, for the profit of multinational companies ? Especially when they already have ample plantation resources to draw from.
This short-sighted practice will ultimately destroy the tourism potential that this area has to offer. The cool temperate rainforests of the Otways is the ideal accompaniment to the rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Road, the jewel of tourism exposure for Victoria.
However, as you now drive along the Great Ocean Road, the pine plantations are becoming more noticeable and the destruction in less accessible areas is quite sickening. For proof just look at the river runoff. Time is rapidly running out for the beauty of this area and if the damage continues, then the loss of tourism potential and jobs in the area will be far greater than the logging industry has to offer.
Everybody can help through everyday actions. Watch your purchases, watch your politicians, be heard, not herded.