Indigenous groups and environmentalists are gearing up for their next battle against the extension of Woodside’s North West Shelf gas project in Western Australia. The focus has now shifted to opposing the development of the Browse Basin gas fields off WA’s Kimberley coast, as they continue their fight to protect ancient rock art in the Murujuga National Park on the Burrup Peninsula.
The recent approval by the federal government for Woodside to extend its NWS operation until 2070 has sparked outrage and renewed determination among traditional owners and activists. Raelene Cooper, a Mardudhunera woman leading the charge, defiantly declared, “See you in court,
” as she launched a legal challenge to halt the extension.
Mark Clifton, echoing his mother’s sentiment, emphasized that their fight is far from over: “
We’ve got to go all the way with this because we just can’t allow something like this on this country.
” Their unwavering commitment stems from a deep-seated belief in protecting Murujuga at all costs.
Josie Alec, another custodian of Murujuga, expressed her dismay at the prospect of industrial encroachment on sacred lands: “
This is the battle of all battles. We’ve seen the rock art disappearing before our eyes.
” Despite facing formidable odds, she remains hopeful and prepared for further legal challenges to disrupt Woodside’s plans.
Expert analysis provided by University of Western Australia emeritus law professor Alex Gardner sheds light on potential avenues for resistance. Gardner highlighted concerns surrounding the Browse project off the Kimberley coast, emphasizing its pivotal role in supplying gas to the NWS processing facility. He hinted at leveraging international judicial scrutiny of emissions associated with gas exports as a strategic move in challenging new developments.
The looming threat posed by Browse has mobilized environmental groups like Greenpeace into action. Geoff Bice, WA campaign lead at Greenpeace Australia Pacific, expressed grave concerns over endangering marine life near Scott Reef due to expanded gas operations. Vowing staunch opposition against both Woodside’s extension and subsequent Browse project approval, Bice asserted their resolve: “
We have to increase pressure…to make sure [the] proposal doesn’t get approved.”
With tensions escalating between conservationists and industry stakeholders, the stage is set for a protracted battle over balancing economic interests with environmental preservation. As traditional owners stand firm in defense of their cultural heritage and activists intensify their calls for responsible resource extraction practices, all eyes are on how this conflict will unfold in shaping Australia’s energy future.
