Greens Candidate for Surfers Paradise and environmental scientist Dean Hepburn has called for the State Government and Gold Coast City Council to act quickly to defend South Stradbroke Island from the advances of predatory developers. "So far these authorities seem to be dragging their feet on protecting the stunning natural island known as South Stradbroke" he said.

According to a report on the ABC, a Gold Coast City Councillor says he has been approached by companies wanting to further develop Stradbroke Island.

"This island is the only place the golden wallaby can be found and is home to 160 bird species and 35 species of butterflies. Its current zoning of Open Space/ Nature Conservation is not adequate and the Island needs to be further protected under legislation, to prevent more resorts and other developments taking place. I call on the Government to quash rumours that they are in the process of extinguishing leases with a view to giving developers the go ahead" Mr. Hepburn explained.

"At present this island offers day trippers, surfers and local boaties the chance to experience a natural paradise unspoiled by the kind of development associated with Surfers Paradise. Holiday makers are more than adequately catered for by two existing resorts." he said.

"The Gold Coast City Council and state government need to understand that failure to protect fully this city's dwindling open space/conservation areas will not be taken lying down by Gold Coast residents. The battle to protect the Spit from inappropriate development has demonstrated the strength of the community's passion about our special places"

For more information telephone 5564 0158 or 5588 9365.