Dear supporters,

Recently, I submitted photos of four deceased ringtail possums to the Conservation Regulator. They were all found within one to two blocks of recent vegetation removal along Truemans Road. Three likely died from predation, one was hit by a car.

They were found in exposed, open areas - no foliage, no canopy, no protection. Most likely, they fled the machinery and chainsaws, only to die frightened and vulnerable on the ground.

Along with the photos, I asked the Conservation Regulator:

 • Was any ecological assessment carried out before this clearing?

 • Why was a qualified wildlife spotter not required on site, especially given the known presence of ringtail possums in this area?

 • Does the Shire not have a duty under the Wildlife Act to ensure protections are in place?

Here’s part of the response I received:

“It does not appear the triggers were met in this instance.”

“Proactive considerations to wildlife are usually the most effective way of avoiding impacts…”

“Both land managers and contractors have responsibilities to ensure wildlife is not harmed.”

So - no spotter was required. No ecological assessment was confirmed. And it appears that despite years of evidence showing wildlife rely on this area, no legal obligations were triggered to protect them.

Today, it got worse.

I stood and watched as large, mature coastal trees were bulldozed on the foreshore to make way for a new toilet block, playground, boardwalk, and picnic area - part of the Truemans Road Beach Car Park redevelopment.

We’re told this is what the “community” wants.

But I ask: Which community? This is clearly a push to attract or cater to tourists - not to protect the very nature they come to enjoy.

A major stretch of canopy connectivity was lost in minutes. This was important habitat for ringtail and brushtail possums, and for magpies who are nesting right now. These birds begin building their nests mid-winter.

And as a wildlife carer, I can confirm: many brushtail possums have pouch young in winter. Two females living on my property are currently raising babies. How many more were displaced or killed today?

This is not “progress.”

It’s systemic, accelerating destruction. And it must stop.

Please continue sharing this petition - we must demand accountability from the Mornington Peninsula Shire and the departments meant to enforce protection under the Wildlife Act.

If you feel compelled please write to your local Councillors and to The Shire, directing your email to Open Spaces.

Thank you.