The following residents of the ACT draw to the attention of the Assembly:
Callum Brae Nature Reserve is a very special place. It protects critically endangered Yellow Box and Blakely Red Gum and grassy woodland. Callum Brae is the largest, best-connected and most diverse area of these species remaining in Australia. Many species of birds, some of which are critically endangered or endangered including the swift parrot and the gang gang cockatoo nest there. It is a popular location for birdwatching and walking, accessible to people with mobility issues, offering serenity in a peaceful natural environment.
Callum Brae Nature Reserve is under severe threat by a proposed large crematorium and cemetery adjacent to it. (Development Application: 202138789). This commercial development proposal is inappropriate, unnecessary and damaging to the environment and endangered flora and faunal species, and includes the loss of mature native trees with nesting hollows. The location of the proposed development site provides necessary connectivity to the Mt. Mugga Mugga Nature Reserve.
Your petitioners, therefore, request the Assembly to:
1. Review Canberra's future needs for crematoria. Ensure we only build as many as we need and take action to ensure we carry this out.
2. In this review, consider alternative burial methods, including Recompose, human composting.
3. Ensure a full environmental assessment for DA202138789.
4. Undertake to add Block 1 Section 3, adjacent to the Callum Brae Nature Reserve to the existing Callum Brae Nature Reserve.