Military don't ask, don't tell attitude to pollution testing at Shoalwater

The Peace Convergence is concerned that important public interest nformation of environmental testing of soil and water in and around the Shoalwater Bay Military Training Area (SWBTA) has not been released.

Members of the local community observed the military body in charge of the SWBTA conducting underwater and soil testing off Rayment and Triangular Islands in 2006. In addition the Livingstone Shire Council have reneged on their promise to test the water in Waterpark Creek, Byfield, both before and after the Talisman Sabre 2007 Joint US-Australian war games.

Environmental Spokesperson for the Peace Convergence, Kim Stewart, says, "We are concerned that the military and council are not being open with the local community on this vital issue and we wonder why.

"If there has been pollution in the local environment, then it is mportant the public know about it. Pollution threatens tourism, local flora and fauna, fishing grounds and community health.

"Waterpark Creek is the sole source of water for the Capricornia Coast area and anything that might endanger the local drinking water is important public information. We know that the live firing area of the SWBTA, the Dismal Sector, is within the catchment of Waterpark Creek. We also know that toxic chemicals are used in every type of munitions, so pollution is highly likely.

"We call on the military for full disclosure of any testing they have done, we also ask for independent testing and for the Livingstone Shire Council to keep their promise on testing the water."

Media contact:
Kim Stewart, Friends of the Earth, Peace convergence 0413 397 839