This document discusses the development proposals in Tweed Shire during the late 1980s, focusing on the controversial Mt. Nullum project and the impact of the ICAC inquiry on local politics and environmental activism.
Development Proposals in Tweed Shire
During the late 1980s, Tweed Shire faced numerous development proposals, including the controversial Ocean Blue project and Doug Moran’s Mt Nullum resort. These proposals sparked significant community opposition due to concerns over environmental destruction and lifestyle changes.
-
An estimated $2000 million in development proposals were planned for Tweed Shire.
-
The Ocean Blue proposal for Fingal led to an ICAC inquiry in 1989, exposing corruption among local officials.
-
Doug Moran proposed a major tourist and health resort on Mt Nullum, which included various luxury amenities.
-
Community groups formed to oppose developments, citing environmental concerns and a desire to maintain the area’s distinct character.
Community Response to Development
The community’s response to the proposed developments was polarized, with both anti-development and pro-development groups emerging. This division highlighted the differing values and priorities within the community regarding growth and environmental preservation.
-
Anti-development groups focused on environmental protection and preserving the local lifestyle.
-
Pro-development groups emphasised economic benefits, job creation, and infrastructure improvements.
-
The ICAC inquiry damaged the reputation of developers, leading to a decline in coastal development proposals.
The Role of the Caldera Environment Centre
The Caldera Environment Centre (CEC) played a crucial role in opposing the Mt Nullum development proposal through legal and community engagement efforts. Their actions contributed to the eventual shelving of the project.
-
The CEC initiated a Commission of Inquiry into the Mt Nullum proposal, focusing on land rezoning and environmental concerns.
-
The inquiry’s lengthy process led to the developer withdrawing the proposal due to uncertainty.
-
The CEC’s ongoing presence and leadership have allowed it to remain active in environmental advocacy.
Historical Environmental Context
The late 1980s marked a shift in public perception regarding environmental issues, influenced by significant protests and scientific findings. This growing awareness set the stage for community actions against developments like Mt Nullum.
-
Major environmental protests in the 1970s and 1980s, such as the Terania Creek protests, raised awareness of ecological issues.
-
The Montreal Protocol (1986) and the establishment of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (1988) highlighted global environmental concerns.
-
Seminal publications on ecology and environmental activism emerged during this period, influencing public opinion.
Doug Moran’s Development Approach
Doug Moran’s approach to development differed from other developers, emphasising philanthropy and community engagement. His reputation as a benevolent developer helped garner support for his projects.
-
Moran’s proposal for Mt Nullum included a health resort, art and cultural centres, and luxury accommodations.
-
He had previously established a nursing home and retirement village, enhancing his credibility in the community.
-
Moran’s philanthropic efforts, such as the Doug Moran Portrait Prize, significantly raised his profile and community goodwill.
Impact of the ICAC Inquiry
The ICAC inquiry into local corruption had a lasting impact on the perception of developers and the council in Tweed Shire. It revealed unethical practices and led to a decline in trust among community members.
-
The inquiry uncovered bribery and corruption involving local officials and developers, including the Ocean Blue project.
-
Key figures, such as Tweed Shire Deputy President Tom Hogan, faced reputational damage and financial ruin.
-
The inquiry’s findings contributed to a broader scepticism towards development proposals in the region.
Role of Tweed Shire Council in Development
The Tweed Shire Council (TSC) played a crucial role in the rezoning and development proposal for Mt Nullum, navigating environmental regulations to facilitate a tourism project. Despite initial support, Council faced challenges due to the land’s designation as a wildlife corridor and scenic escarpment.
-
TSC recognised Mt Nullum’s unique environment and potential for tourism.
-
Council attempted various tactics to rezone the land, including shifting wildlife corridor zones and permitting tourist development.
-
The Chief Town Planner proposed redefining environmental protection, which was supported by councillors.
-
The land was zoned as a wildlife corridor and scenic escarpment in the 1987 LEP, requiring a rezoning application to the NSW government.
Purchase and Initial Plans for Mt Nullum
The TSC purchased the land on Mt Nullum in the mid-1980s, envisioning it for low-impact recreational use. The Shire President emphasised its potential as a park accessible to all, including the elderly.
-
TSC sought to incorporate Mt Nullum into a reserve or park but was unsuccessful.
-
Council purchased the land in mid-1980 for $100,000.
-
Initial plans focused on low-impact recreational use, contrasting with the later tourism development proposal.
Consultant Study and Development Proposal
In 1984, the TSC engaged a consultant to assess the potential for a tourist theme park on Mt Nullum, leading to a formal offer from the Moran Health Care Group in 1987. This proposal was conditionally approved by Council.
-
The consultant’s report highlighted a concept for a self-sufficient tourist theme park.
-
The Moran Health Care Group and Kinhill Engineers submitted a formal offer to purchase the land in July 1987.
-
Council’s approval was contingent upon appropriate rezoning and development consent.
Environmental Planning and Rezoning Challenges
The TSC faced significant challenges in rezoning the land due to environmental protection recommendations from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). The council ultimately accepted some NPWS advice but sought to create less restrictive zoning.
-
The NPWS recommended zoning for Environmental Protection (Habitat) 7(l), but TSC proposed Environmental Protection (Scenic Escarpment) 7(d).
-
The Tweed LEP 1987 was gazetted on January 29, 1988, partially zoning Mt Nullum as 7(l) and 7(d).
-
Council engaged consultants for further environmental studies to support the rezoning.
Amendment No. 1 and Tourist Facilities
Amendment No. 1 to the Tweed LEP 1987 allowed for tourist facilities in the Scenic Escarpment zone, primarily to facilitate the Mt Nullum project. This amendment was met with public objections and required further environmental studies.
-
The amendment removed “tourism facilities” from prohibited items in the 7(d) zone.
-
Council received 172 submissions, with 154 objections to the draft Amendment No. 16.
-
Changes to the amendment included a requirement for detailed environmental studies before development applications.
Political Support and Government Involvement
The NSW government, particularly Environment Minister Tim Moore and Deputy Premier Wal Murray, played a significant role in facilitating the rezoning of Mt Nullum. Their support was crucial in overcoming bureaucratic hurdles.
-
Tim Moore approved the TSC’s rezoning application, despite criticism for perceived delays.
-
Wal Murray provided guidance and facilitated government meetings to support the development.
-
The political climate shifted with the 1988 elections, impacting the development’s trajectory.
Community Response and Conservation Efforts
The community response to the Mt Nullum development proposal was polarised, with significant opposition from conservationists and support from pro-development groups. Various community organisations emerged to advocate for environmental protection.
-
Conservationists aimed to protect the landscape and maintain wildlife corridors.
-
Pro-development groups emphasised job creation and economic growth.
-
The Tweed Valley Conservation Trust and other groups actively campaigned against the development, leading to inquiries and protests.
Formation of New Conservation Groups
The Caldera Environment Centre (CEC) emerged from the Tweed Valley Conservation Trust (TVCT), reflecting a more radical approach to environmental advocacy. This shift was driven by concerns over Council’s handling of the Mt Nullum proposal.
-
The CEC was formed in September 1989 to engage more actively with Council on environmental issues.
-
The group criticised Council’s rezoning decisions and sought greater transparency.
-
The CEC became the premier conservation group in the Tweed, succeeding the TVCT.
