On this World Environment Day, the Kiama Greens are highlighting the importance of protecting the unique natural environment of the Kiama Local Government Area (LGA).

“The Kiama LGA is home to amazing biodiversity, including at least seven Endangered Vegetation Communities spanning Jamberoo to Gerroa; the largest area of subtropical rainforest in southern NSW; rare littoral rainforest; swamp forests; heathlands and saline wetlands," says Councillor Kathy Rice.

"Our coastal dune vegetation is also an important habitat and buffer to rising sea levels.

“These communities are home to many animals and bird species including the endangered Greater Glider population at Seven Mile Beach, endangered Ground Parrots and Bristle Birds at Barren Grounds and rare Oystercatchers breeding in the dunes at Seven Mile Beach.

“Sadly, the Koala disappeared in our Municipality in the eighties and development pressures and climate impacts may see more losses, so we think it’s very important to highlight these values and work to look after what remains of our unique local environment."

Over several decades, Kiama Greens have actively worked to protect and enhance the environment, both as individuals, members of local environment groups and through the work of elected Greens councillors on Kiama Council.

"Our members have supported campaigns to protect special areas from sandmining; to preserve the remaining vegetation along the Minnamurra River; to combat unnecessary removal of individual trees of significance and the arrogant destruction of coastal dune vegetation through vandalism," says Cllr Rice.

"We are constantly alert to the potential negative impacts of development on the area."

Jodi Keast, a member of the Greens team for the upcoming September council elections, says, "Greens Councillors elected to Kiama Council in September 2021 will be committed to actively protecting this valuable and unique biodiversity.

"Our team has extensive practical experience in environmental campaigning; in landcare work and administration and in championing the changes needed to reduce climate change. When elected, we will be encouraging and promoting Council policies which support these values.”