Hobart’s natural environment is extraordinary. Few capital cities anywhere in the world extend from an alpine environment on Kunanyi/Mount Wellington through forested foothills, suburban bushland and freshwater rivulets to the Derwent River and its estuarine environment. That landscape is fundamental to Hobart’s identity. Protecting it requires more than simply talking about environmental values. It requires practical work on the ground.
Council has an important role in maintaining bushland reserves, improving biodiversity, managing weeds, reducing fire risks appropriately and protecting our waterways. We should also ensure people can enjoy these natural places responsibly through well-maintained walking and recreational trails.
The Derwent and Hobart’s rivulets are equally important. Hobart is fundamentally a river city, with places including Sandy Bay, Cornelian Bay, the waterfront and the historic Battery Point slipyards contributing to our relationship with the Derwent.
Environmental responsibility should also be practical. My own involvement has included preserving and restoring bushland around the Knocklofty area, tree planting, removing invasive species and weeds and improving habitat for native animals. Living alongside Hobart’s bush reserves has reinforced my appreciation of the wildlife and natural systems that exist remarkably close to the centre of our city.
Improving public transport, reducing unnecessary congestion and enabling people to move around efficiently can produce environmental benefits while also making the city function better. Hobart does not need to choose between protecting its environment and remaining a vibrant, prosperous city. Our challenge is to achieve both.
The environment we have inherited is remarkable. Our responsibility is to protect and improve it so future generations can enjoy the same mountain, bushland, wildlife, waterways and river that have shaped Hobart for generations.
