Campaigners lose fight to save lakes

MAN-MADE lakes at TLC Homestead Lakes Aged Care facility in Wallington have been filled in, much to the disgust of campaigners who had been fighting to save them.
Wallington resident Heidi Wane, who had been leading the campaign for the past eight months, warned locals that the lakes would be destroyed in August, and last week this became a reality.
Workers began draining the lakes last week, and residents then reported that concrete had been poured into them.
“TLC polluted both lakes, but chose to destroy them rather than rejuvenate them, depriving birds, many endangered, and animals of their home and their aged care elderly residents of their joy,” Ms Wane said.
“It’s so sad… water birds can be seen clinging to the last bits of mud that represented their home for 20 years.
“What turtles and frogs haven’t been sent down the drain, are expected to be suffocated.”
Locals also took to social media to share their disgust and sadness, with comments such as “Absolutely disgusting – shame on them”, “The way of the world, not a lot of compassion left” and “Brings to mind the song “Tar and cement”. I really thought that the powers that be would come to their senses, but then the $$$$s rule. I’m sad for all those creatures that are now homeless”.
During the past eight months, two onsite protests have drawn around 40 attendees, while an online petition almost reached 1,500 signatures.
TLC was also contacted by Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville and The Animal Justice Party’s Andy Meddick, Jon Faine Radio station, and community members, including aged care residents and carers, have written and posted letters, emails and phone calls.