The logging frenzy is causing landslides that release dangerous industrial chemicals into water supplies. The river is also home to a rare native fish that needs clear streams to survive. In the Otways are eight water catchments that provide for more than 270,000 people. Unless these reservoirs are surrounded by protected wilderness, our water will not be pure. The case of Sydney, where the hazardous protozoa giardia and cryptosporidium bacteria were found in the drinking water, is a red alert.
Government rescues big business.
When industries are in trouble, our State and Federal Governments run to their aid. To forestall organizing to save the forests, State Premier Jeff Kennett in June 1998 pushed through legislation banning entry into a Forest Operation Zone without permission. Because there was no publicity, few people know about the law. Following the terms of pacts made among the world's richest 28 countries and the World Bank, Prime Minister John Howard has instituted Regional Forest Agreements. Under the RFAs, logging magnates would no longer be required to apply to the Federal Government for licences.