Save Port Phillip Bay from Toxic Discharges UPDATE 23 July 2026

Dear supporters,

It is still early days but we have made a credible start thanks to you all. We clocked up more than 340 signatures in 5 days. With an initial target of 2000 signatures but an end target of 10,000 signatures, we obviously have a long way to go. It takes time and effort before a petition goes viral and develops a self sustaining momentum. To achieve this, we have started contacting special interests groups like fishing, yachting and sailing clubs, bird lovers etc. We are also approaching various environmental groups, asking for their support and to promote the petition to their members. Some have already agreed. We have also contacted several local and federal politicians in the Bay area, with some results. Two have already written to the Victorian Minister for Planning (who has the responsibility for the VOPAK EES hearings currently in train) expressing concern and asking for clarification. The disappointment so far is that of the 8 journalists and media personalities, we have contacted, we yet have to hear back from any of them. But we will keep trying. If any of you have access to relevant media, please leave a comment on the petition page of Change.org and I will contact you. In the meantime, while waiting for the effect of the various actions to kick in, I am asking you to help out once more and re-share the petition on Change.org to everyone you can think of.  Also, Social Media can be a powerful tool. Every signature counts and you can make an even bigger difference.

With kind regards and gratitude,

Maarten Koster, Shoreham, 23 July 2026