PROTESTERS will be paddling in a group demonstration of solidarity and revolt against fossil fuel companies at Dyoondalup Point Walter next week.
Paddle for the Planet will join community and environmental groups “calling for the end” of WA fossil fuel developments, with a paddle out onto the Swan.
The event coincides with the Rising Tide People’s Blockade in Newcastle, says Conservation Council of WA senior campaigner Greta Carroll.
“Rising Tide started from communities directly impacted by the exports of coal from Newcastle Port… people who see massive companies profiting from Australia’s natural resources while towns are under-resourced and locals struggle to make ends meet,” Ms Carroll said.
“In WA we’re in the same boat, our state is the third largest exporter of gas in the world, but most of it is sent overseas royalty-free.
• Paddlers Sally Knowles and Greta Carroll. Photo by Katherine Kraayvanger
“Companies like Chevron and Woodside are making huge profits off WA’s gas while we struggle with the cost of living which is only going up as the climate crisis continues…they make billions while we get ripped off.”
It’s also an opportunity to campaign for “greater protection” for WA’s natural resources, according to Ms Carroll.
“These places are part of our identity as West Australians, but our reefs, beaches, rivers, and forests are all being directly impacted by climate change, and it’s only getting worse,” Ms Carroll said.
“We’ve just experienced extensive coral bleaching across the state due to a record-breaking, climate-induced heatwave.
“If we don’t stop, we won’t have these places to go to.”
Murdoch University academic and campaigner Sally Knowles, who is part of a group lobbying universities to divest from fossil fuel companies, says Point Walter’s “beautiful location” is a perfect place to start action for the “dire” state of climate change in WA and over east.
“I want to show solidarity with voices that are urging our governments to transition away from fossil fuels and start living within our limits,” Dr Knowles said.
“Our wellbeing is tied to the environment and caring for the environment and for each other, so integrally tied.
“It’s tied to what’s happening to the rising tide and drawing attention to rising sea waters, coral bleaching, the heating of our oceans, so it’s a very visceral way to get out in nature and in a bonding activity that’s a lot of fun.”
Paddle for the Planet will be held at Dyoondalup Point Walter on Sunday, November 30, at 10am adjacent to the jetty.
Environmental funk band Formidable Vegetable will be playing after the paddle, alongside, Desmond Blurton, Sascha Burros, and the Voices for Climate Choir, and food and activities will also feature.
by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER