Campaigner launches legal action in last-ditch attempt to save lakes

A CAMPAINGER fighting the destruction of two man-made lakes at TLC Homestead Lakes Aged Care facility in Wallington has launched legal action.

Heidi Wane, who has been leading the campaign for the past six months, said her solicitors, Ocean Legal, had written to the directors of Leaper Corporation in a last-ditch attempt to save the lakes.

Ms Wane said the lawyers requested them to enter into mediation to encourage an alternative plan to save the habitat and endangered and rare species of Australian Wildlife.

“We are deeply concerned about Leaper Corporation Pty Ltd who operate TLC Aged Care facility in Homestead Avenue and their plans to land fill two existing lakes to create 21 car parking spaces.

“It is understood works are to commence in several weeks time in August 2019.

“We believe both lakes have been present on the property for over 20 years, having become habitat and home for unique, endangered and protected wildlife.”

Ms Wane said the proposed landfill would destroy the habitat for water birds that nest and live on the lakes and suffocate other wildlife including species of frogs, including the endangered growling grass frog, and longnecked turtles.

“Not only will the destruction of the lakes cause irreparable loss of habitat for wildlife and destroy some species, but the proposed lakes’ destruction shall have significant emotional impact upon many of the residents of TLC Aged Care who gain considerable comfort and pleasure from the presence of the lakes, water birds and wildlife that reside in and on the lakes,” she said.

“It is a feature for many family visitors, and which is shared with residents.”

During the past six months, two onsite protests have drawn around 40 attendees, while an online petition has almost 1,500 signatures (chng.it/yKF8mN79dm).

TLC have also been contacted by Bellarine MP Lisa Neville and the Animal Justice Party’s Andy Meddick and the ABC’s Jon Faine. Community members, including aged care residents and carers, have written and posted letters, emails and phone calls.