LAKE MOKOAN DECOMMISSIONING

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, has responded to the recent announcement regarding the future of Lake Mokoan.

Dr Sykes said, “I note National acceptance of the decision to decommission Lake Mokoan, however, I remain gravely concerned that:

• The information upon which the decision to decommission Lake Mokoan is fundamentally flawed and grossly incomplete.

• The Government will not be able to meet its commitments to irrigators to retain current security of supply of water without buying back water right – which will further rob the Benalla area and irrigators of future economic growth.

• The Governments commitment of $1m to rehabilitate Lake Mokoan to world class wetlands is laughable – a cost of $10m is more realistic.

Dr Sykes concluded, “if the decommissioning is to go ahead then the Bracks Government is going to have to substantially lift its game and this time actually listen to local input on its proposed implementation committees.”

I will also be available for comment after 4pm this afternoon on 0427 624 989.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989