TBLC has been asked by concerned environmental groups to circulate to information below:
In 1998, CSIRO’s Dr. Graeme Harris warned that the Gippsland Lakes would be “stuffed” unless phosphorus (P) loads were reduced. A plan was implemented to cut P by 40% to prevent toxic algal blooms. Since then, conditions have worsened. Declining freshwater inflows and entrance deepening have made nitrogen the limiting nutrient, yet water quality monitoring remains unreliable. Key impacts since 1998 include: – Loss of stabilizing fringing vegetation, increasing erosion. – Declining black bream and mullet populations. – PFAS contamination threatening species like the Burrunan dolphin. – Nine toxic algal blooms and major fish kills in 20 years. – Invasive marine species threatening deeper ecosystems. – Heavy metal pollution in the food chain. It’s been 26 years since the last audit, and an updated, independent
CSIRO assessment is critical to guide restoration efforts.
Petition Request
We therefore ask the House to conduct a new CSIRO audit to ensure the future of the iconic Gippsland Lakes system.
https://www.aph.gov.au/e-petitions/petition/EN7256
Signature count: 707
Closing date for signatures: 23 April 2025 10:59 PM (AEST)10 days left
Please sign this petition
https://www.aph.gov.au/e-petitions/petition/EN7256
