“Risk Electing the Greens”... October Is the Four Pillars Issue

justice I peace and non-violence I participatory democracy I environmental sustainability

NEWSLETTER OF THE GREENS (WA) Vol 23 No 5 – October 2014 “Risk electing the Greens”... October is the four pillars issue. (Well, so is every issue, but ...) Participatory democracy Readers will know by now that the Vasse by-election was a considerable success, increasing our vote from the state election result in 2013 of 10% to 18% (with almost 80% of the vote counted), almost doubling our vote and improving on our federal election results of 15% for booths in Vasse. This result was achieved by our phenomenally clear-headed, even-tempered and hardworking candidate, Michael Baldock, and a brilliant strategic and experienced campaign manager, Giz Watson (who’s not a bad cook, either!). Peace and non-violence October is also non-violence month. We complete our two-part story on the beginning of The Greens (WA) with Jo Vallentine's parliamentary experience essay. Environmental sustainability Greens organised, attended or spoke at climate rallies across the State. Social and economic justice Thanks to Katrina Bercov, Conference Working Group convenor, and her team for what has been dubbed the best ever state conference – and certainly the longest ever over a long weekend. Chilla Bulbeck Co-editor

• By-election wrap, p6 • Photo roundup, p12 justice I peace and non-violence I participatory democracy I environmental sustainability Members’ feedback on the State conference Kerri Watson, Fremantle-Tangney Regional Group member, reports on the conference open day. Attending the Open Day of the 2014 GWA State Conference on Sunday 28 September was educational, empowering and inspiring. The fact that it also marked a significant moment in Australian history – 30 years since Jo Vallentine won a seat in federal Parliament and became the very first Greens senator – made it even more remarkable. A palpable sense of purpose hung in the air throughout the day, and into the night. Bravery, celebration, laughter, joy, camaraderie, fresh thinking and Brad Orgill, right, addresses conference participants. Chris Johansen validation for the hard work and determination that Greens members and volunteers, students, mayors, yoga Thank you to the hardworking their representatives have given us over teachers, unionists, church-goers, gay organisers and guests who made it all the years. rights advocates, trainers, retirees, happen. Onwards and upwards toward journalists, human rights activists, young 20% of the vote by 2020! The program reflected the growth and people, environmental activists, Editorial comment: Brad Orgill has diversity in our party over the past few lecturers, geeks, town planners, extensive experience working in global decades. Current members and supporters education assistants, garden enthusiasts, financial markets, spending 22 years at are community workers, academics, surfers, midwives, people with a the UBS Group, and has also advised Nyoongar elders, tradies, carers, engineers, disability, atheists, sustainability experts, government as a Member of the consumers, vets, pollies, teachers, writers, psychologists, social workers, policy Queensland Reconstruction Authority economists, local councillors, scientists, researchers, peaceniks, media producers, Board and chairman of the Building the parents, lawyers, business owners, migrant support workers, company Education Revolution Taskforce. He directors and social commentators. A was also on the NBN board. His book CONTENTS generous slice of the Australian Why Labor Should Savour its Greens community. The conference reinforced “Risk electing The Greens”...... 1 published by Scribe in 2013 argues that the view that Greens members are The Greens and the ALP should form 2014 State conference ...... 2 ordinary, caring, intelligent, energetic a progressive alliance against the right- Vasse by-election wrap...... 6 and vibrant people who want change wing parties. Responses to Brad's talk Jo Vallentine - Pt2...... 8 for themselves and future generations. varied from ‘I don't think the Greens Conference posts...... 9 Keynote speaker Brad Orgill's should give the keynote stage to just Climate Action rallies...... 10 presentation was a highlight of the one speaker’; and ‘We have a great Vasse by-election photos ...... 12 conference. It dispelled the myth that economic policy based on renewable AGM results...... 13 ‘Greenies are not good at economics.’ energy so we’ve got “mainstreaming” covered’; to ‘Let's have a conference Greenscheme pays off ...... 13 Quite the opposite. Brad's eloquent sweep of the emerging economic on Green economics and invite Brad Is Green sustainable? Feedback ..... 14 landscape of Australia was compelling. back to talk more about his ideas.’ He Rachel’s page...... 15 Capital is on the move, jobs are was seen in deep discussion with Scott’s page ...... 16 disappearing, traditional industries are corporate-background member Norman Lynn’s page...... 17 in decline. We have a remarkable Pater, as well as one of our far-flung Robin’s page ...... 18 opportunity to lead the way into a delegates, Fern Rainbow, from the Otway branch of the Victorian Greens. Cartoons...... 19 smarter, fairer, less carbon-dependent future. But we need transformational Contacts ...... 19 • • • efforts to win the hearts and minds of Katrina Bercov, conference Working Next deadline: Fri Dec 5 voters across the state. Vasse, get ready Group convenor. – we're coming! The conference attracted nearly 200 FRONT PAGE I left the conference that night feeling people over the weekend, including 65 Top: Vasse volis Elliot, Jordan, Mary, Lou, confident about the future. There is an Open Day guests. Participants came Gabrielle, Daithi, Roslyn, Andrew, Paula, Kevin extraordinary hunger in the community from as far afield as Indonesia, after doorknocking in Provence (Yalyalup, not for positive change and action. We can Melbourne, New South Wales, Broome France). Chilla Bulbeck lead both if we harness the Green power and Albany, plus all over the South Bottom: State conference 2014 participants. Peter Best within us all, right now! West.

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The conference working group Katrina, the amazing conference team was doing. I tell a lie as, of course, extends huge thanks to all our amazing convener, called everyone to attention for some the grand final was on. For volunteers, more than 50 facilitators and and invited us in to “Participatory Plaza” the most part, everyone's thoughts and presenters, plus all delegates for such for the opening. A large “circle” of energy were directed towards why we an incredible experience. Overall, the chairs surrounded a beautiful sculpture were here; to debate the issues of feedback was that the event was a huge of native foliage in the centre of the concern and to rejoice in the success, and we will be reviewing all room. With a welcome to country from achievements of a progressive group of the participant evaluations for more Uncle Ben Taylor the ceremony began. society who were not satisfied to sit detailed comments and suggestions. It struck me how the opening set the back and allow things to happen around • • • tone for the rest of the weekend. Among them, but who fight for what matters Julie Scanlon, a new member of the the speeches, introductions and and show that apathy and complacency Curtin RG, has already stepped into a practicalities, four candles were lit to are pejorative words. range of volunteer roles: doorknocking, signify the four pillars of The Greens – Now, as I look back on the conference assisting with the new members' their core values: ecological that celebrated 30 years since Jo welcome event, conference volunteering, sustainability, social justice, grassroots Vallentine (later to become Australia's and becoming a member of the Green democracy, and peace and non-violence. first Greens senator) was elected, I feel Issue editorial group. These are her These values were immediately very proud to be part of this movement, reflections on her first state conference. reinforced as representatives from all and proud to be a part of a vision for a levels of the grass-roots movement were The river glistened as the sun peeked better way forward. I'm exhausted but out between the clouds. Some red-tailed invited to light each candle, for example invigorated, concerned but empowered, black cockatoos squawked and circled to represent our most recent members and most of all I know I'm not alone amongst the branches of a gum tree as as well as our elders. but part of a growing community I climbed out of the car and was greeted The next three days were hectically embraced by the spirit of consensus, by a friendly group of people emerging filled with presentation, discussions, honesty, respect, collective wisdom, from a vehicle next to me. I sensed workshops, plenaries, walks, productivity, harmony and courtesy – energy and eagerness in their careless “adventures”, conversations and The Conference Spirit. chatter while I grabbed my bag and yoga reflections. The latter two were • • • mat from the boot and followed them experienced while enjoying a coffee Ian James, Greens candidate for towards the main buildings of Point and cake, or over dinner, or grabbing a Durack in 2013, is a broadacre farmer Walter Conference Centre, a place I was few minutes between sessions, or simply at Cunderdin, whose email signature is for the first time to know as Tjuntalup walking between venues: all moments Remote, Regional and Rural. Boodja. I reflected on the fact that on a of the day seemed to be so precious in I had a very rich experience over the previous educational school visit I had assimilating the ideas, visions and three days. From side-splitting laughs not learnt this name. information. It was only on day two that from our incredibly quick-witted future The area around the reception desk I realised for more than twenty four senators’ hypothetical trip to 2050, to was already lively. I picked out my hours I had not heard any mention or a very sobering discussion on feminism name badge, a distinguishing green one, small talk about the weather – well – particularly Gabriel's reflections on and asked how I might help before the maybe a slight whinge about the rain her journey from a little girl with visions delegates arrived. Most jobs seemed to on the first day – or what the local footie of prime ministership be in hand so I decided to quickly drop my things off in my shared room. When I returned to reception the pace had picked up and last minute tasks were hurriedly assigned; some notices about meal times to stick up and a volunteer timetable, a pen and notice next to the barista machine so the paper cups could be recycled (a doomed sustainability attempt), a doormat to reduce the mess as it had just started to rain. Amidst the buzz of activity the room filled with old friends greeting each other and new ones making acquaintance. I only knew a few faces, but felt embraced in the warmth of everyone there. I also had a role, so I had little choice but to be Newly trained by Al Gore, climate reality activists Galen Townson, Caroline Perks, Cameron involved. Power, Barb Frey and Dinny Laurence (organiser) shared their passion. Stephen le Page

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A hundred members crowded into an untidy double circle for the opening session. Chris Johansen encouraged by her father, through and substituting those costs for Daithí Ó'Gliasáin, a new member of to her 20s dealing with remarks and chilling and packaging into Perth Regional Group and a member jokes in the boardrooms, not exactly compact chilled containers. of the conference organising committee intended to offend but offensive The answer lies not in a ban but in wrote this summary from the conference nonetheless. I was left measuring my barriers, and building a more viable and evaluation. own track record and thinking, at times, efficient alternative, so that the more ‘Stimulating discussion / opportunity I could have done better. expensive live export option is simply to spend time with like-minded people.’ I enjoyed a lively workshop facilitated less profitable. ‘Listening to Brad Orgill.’ by Giz where I participated in some illuminating and somewhat frustrating A market for chilled packaged produce ‘Meeting lots of new people.’ exercises in reaching consensus, my already exists in China, where ‘Junkadelic band.’ first experience of this method of refrigeration capacity is far greater than ‘Meeting new members.’ that currently serviced by live export. decision-making. ‘Rachel Siewert's incredible passion The live export discussion was my In short, the market will complete our and vision after already two terms.’ work. high moment. I was very pleased to be ‘Meeting Indonesian greens.’ on the program as a speaker, beside my I hope by the end of the discussion ‘Having elected MPs present at wonderful friend Lynn. Although unsure everyone realised that this was conference.’ of the format I gave it a shot. I had a achievable and could be a win for The strategy that I would concentrate on one Greens, a win for farmers, and a win ‘Participation, discussions and message and try to keep the discussion for animals. workshops.’ focused on the theme “Barrier and Thank you for an enlightening ‘Magical venue.’ Build”. weekend. ‘Loads of relevant information.’ Barriers to suffering: • put the spotlight on the export industry, where no scope can exist for contravention of protocols • ensure that sick and lethargic animals are quickly identified and euthanised to stop contagion and to cease their suffering • ensure that levies are collected and redirected back into the industry to fund construction of the only alternative: a strong producer- owned network of regional processing and dressing facilities, close to where the animals are grown, eliminating costly transportation and feeding expenses Delegates wrote their evaluations on a thank-you card for Katrina. Katrina Bercov

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‘The opportunity to learn from each other.’ ‘Heartfelt people who care.’ What can I say about the state conference which isn’t said above? Lots, actually, and that would still only be the tip of the iceberg. The weekend exceeded all expectations held, created new connections, renewed old friendships, and inspired hearts and imaginations beyond the traditional boundaries of what three days and a recreation centre are normally capable. The highlights of the weekend were many and bright, but let’s take a look through the cold hard evaluation data to see which lights shone brightest. From a sample set of 59 evaluation responses, we can glean many insights, but yet the Kate Reynolds, our newest member and keen volunteer, lighting one of the four pillar candles. data will never tell the whole story. Chris Johansen Over 100 members and 50+ non- Point Walter was deemed a suitable ‘Mobs of people, many of them new. members (excuse my loose use of the venue, with many calling for a return The new ones were so cool!’ facts here) attended the weekend. There next year, although these comments ‘Connecting, ideas, empowerment, was high praise for the organisation and were equally balanced with those calling enthusiasm, like minds.’ coordination of the event, which would for a bigger venue to accommodate the ‘The in-between times where you got surprise nobody who had the good growing numbers. The lack of public to relax and build solid relationships fortune of attending and witnessing what transport connections was noted by with other Greens.’ months of preparation can deliver. many. ‘Spending time with fantastic people. The quality of all sessions was very An army marches on its stomach, and Conversation and workshops. The Wi- high, with an overall average score of The Greens are no different. The food Fi was great.’ 4.4 on a scale of 1-5. The top sessions was the lowest scoring measure on the ‘The commitment to a culture of by user rating were: survey (4.0 – 58 ratings), with comments inclusivity. Circles, etc mean this is a • Garbologie Tour (Adam Watson) regarding the ‘overcooked veggies’ and welcoming community, not just a party.’ 5.0 (7 ratings) ‘more food diversity needed’. The The evaluations were full of praise barista service proved to be an and thanks for the organizing committee • Green Leadership (Giz Watson & overwhelming positive, delighting tea and Katrina Bercov in particular. Christine Cunningham) 4.8 (33 and coffee lovers alike. ratings) ‘Katrina is a unique, phenomenal From a program structure and content individual.’ • Enhancing Consensus (Giz perspective, two themes stood out: more ‘Thank you so much for organising Watson) 4.8 (15 ratings) breaks for social and down time, and this event. It's very refreshing to know • Community Engagement - Talking fewer sessions of longer duration. With so many people care about what's going jobs and winning over workers so much to discuss and so many people on and want to make a positive change (Alison Xamon) 4.7 (9 ratings) with whom to discuss it, this feedback happen.’ • Brad Orgill's Vision 4.7 (26 ratings) is natural when one considers the breadth From my perspective it was a pleasure • Climate Reality (Caroline Perks, of the program content and the limitation to be involved with the organisation, Cameron Power, Dinny Laurence, of the hours in the days. The sessions and an even greater pleasure to be Galen Townson, Barb Frey) 4.7 were noted as too short for discussing involved in the participation. We’re (16 ratings). big ideas, especially around policy. looking forward to The Greens WA While sessions fill the timetable, it’s State Conference 2015 already. Bigger, They say the data doesn’t lie. As I only better, greener! had the pleasure of attending the people who make the sessions and Community Engagement and Brad the comments on the general ambience Orgill’s vision (both of which happened and vibe at the conference indicated that to be my personal favorites), I can only the culture is strong and infectious. assume the data proves good in selecting ‘The Greens have the best sense of the best of the best. humour on the planet.’

Green Issue October 2014 page 5 justice I peace and non-violence I participatory democracy I environmental sustainability About our Indonesian speakers Vasse by-election in a nutshell Chilla Bulbeck, doorknocking organisor, reflects on her Vasse campaign highlights. Thirty people gathered at number 12 Rainbird Place, Dunsborough to celebrate the four-week Vasse by- election campaign. As our candidate Michael Baldock said, ‘We had two goals: 20% of the vote, and to make Vasse marginal. And we achieved them both – over 19% of the vote, and Vasse is marginal.’ Michael noted that the Greens campaign shifted the terrain of the debate so the media was dominated by the issues we identified: keeping the foreshore for public use and not selling Dian Abraham (A’am), Shane Guthrie and Khalisah Khalid (Alin). Rez Nez out to developers and high rise short term holiday accommodation; Khalisah Khalid, known by Apart from environmental activism, chemotherapy, mental health and other everyone as Alin, is a founder of the A’am is also a supporter, and was a health services in Busselton; another Indonesian Green Party and heads the local leader, of a Teachers Union primary school in Dunsborough and Research and Resource Mobilization fighting for teachers’ rights. Department for the Indonesian Forum improved infrastructure in all the Snippets from their presentation on schools; and fracking, a sleeper that for the Environment. She has conducted Green politics in Indonesia: research on violence against women, really took off in the closing days. natural resources from a feminist • the Indonesian Green Party was Michael said, ‘When Libby Mettam political ecology perspective for the launched on World Environment breaks her promises on fracking in National Commission on Violence Day, 5 June 2012 Vasse, or on her claims to support against women, and completed a course • 78 by-laws have been passed in education, the voters will take note.’ on political ecology at the Institute of Indonesia since 1999 restricting When Michael made his Social Studies in the Netherlands. Alin women’s public presence announcement on election night we writes on a wide range of issues on her • A century ago, forests covered 84% didn't have the polling results for pre- blog http://sangperempuan.web.id of Indonesia. A recent estimate polling and postal voting. When they Dian Abraham, known by everyone suggests that the forests will be came in, the Greens vote dropped to as A’am, is one of the founders of Partai completely cut down within a just below 18% – still over 50% up on Hijau Indonesia (PHI), the Indonesian decade, with massive acceleration the State election, and 2% better than Green Party. A’am also serves as a party since the 1970s. (found on we achieved in Vasse booths in the executive, focusing on the day to day Wikipedia: This makes Indonesia federal election. The difference is due work of party building in Jakarta. the world’s third largest emitter of to both demographics (older people do Previously he joined Sarekat Hijau greenhouse gases, behind China postal votes and tend to vote Liberal) Indonesia, a “wing organisation” of PHI, and the United States. Around 80% and doorknocking (which had a high as the International Relations Officer. of the logging is illegal but there and significant impact on our result in As an environmental activist A’am is is almost no enforcement of the the federal by-election: we know it best known as a long-time activist in law) works). the Indonesian Antinuclear Society Highlights of the campaign were: (Masyarakat Antinuklir Indonesia, or • Indonesian “democrasi” has been MANUSIA / MANI), starting in 1995, recoined “democrazy”. Although • 20 people down from Perth or during the Soeharto administration. He there is a proliferation of parties, joining the local Margaret River is also very interested in renewable there is ongoing corruption, and a team to doorknock in Vasse energies and how they can be applied significant concern is convincing • Christine Milne's visit. With Scott in the Indonesian archipelago for the Indonesians that the Greens party Ludlam and Rachel Siewert, benefit of the people, not multinational (PHI) will represent people’s and Christine and Michael visited Luke corporations. the planet’s interests McCauley at Solargain in

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Busselton to talk about renewable support, Kim Dravnieks, Alistair Spong website; Steve Yuen, telephone banking energy and the importance for and Paula Samson. For training: Robyn co-ordinator and to the volunteers in Vasse jobs of preserving the Williams and Barb Frey. For giving up the Perth office who made 800 telephone Renewable Energy Target. They their holidays or taking holidays to do calls to the electors of Vasse. Thanks also visited a GeoCatch Living it and/or for coming down for days at a to Kate, Michael’s wife who secured Stream site which cleans the runoff time: Lisa Gibson, Alistair Spong, Paula our accommodation and fed us on pre- water of industrial chemicals. Samson, Mary O'Byrne, Andrew election and election night (with lots of GeoCatch has lost its funding - just Woolley, Guy McDonald, Louis kale!). Again our thanks to Giz for being a few thousand dollars to finance Beckering, Dinny Laurence, Avril Jones. so on top of every contingency; and the volunteers protecting the local For helping for the fabulous double Michael for being a candidate of whom environment weekend surge, either by driving for six we could be so proud. • The mental health forum at which hours in one day or coming for a whole Special thanks to Grainne, Lisa, Judy, Michael, Lynn MacLaren and weekend: Daithi O'Gliasain, Judy Jordan and Daithi for being new Lorrae Loud, LAMP Inc CEO Eastham, Gabrielle Whiteley, Kevin members who have surged into spoke. Lamp supports 1400 people Ball, Garry Boase, Nicki MacLennan, supporting The Greens with their wit, requiring mental health services, Tim Smith, Roslyn Drayton, Mark talents, passion and time. Not to say I so they do not fall deeper into Holland, Elliot Sawyer, Jordan Cahill, don't love all the old hands too: I love illness and require more intensive Maria Niermann. you all and couldn't have chosen a more and costly intervention. State and Thanks also to: Grahame Bowland, IT exciting “holiday.” Now, if you weren't Federal Liberal funding has been support for telephone banking and in Vasse in October, think about it for stripped from community services doorknocking without which it would next time! throughout the electorate, including not have happened; Patrick Hyslop, from Lamp booth co-ordinator; Grainne O'Donovan, • Michael speaking sensibly and a relentless and keen-eyed social media rationally and convincingly at and website co-ordinator; Robyn candidates' forums, including the Williams and Grant Boxer, stalls co- ABC South-West forum on ordinators; Anthony Sharp for the Thursday 16 October, from which snippets were played on radio next day • Staffing the prepolling booth almost every hour of every day, with long stints from Peter de Cuyper, Jay Birnbrauer and Pam Heald (who also scrutineered the mobile polling) • The Liberals' “Don't risk electing the Greens, Vote Liberal” polling booth signs, which we changed to “Risk electing the Greens” with some temporary sleight of hand. We could have done with a few more risk takers, a few more of the young mothers and out of a job workers who care about health, or education or a clean energy economy and responded positively to our doorknocking or Left: Daithi and Paula at Busselton Community polling booth presence. We'll be onto Resource Centre polling booth pointing to the ‘No Fracking Way’ poster put together by it next time, or rather, well before next Grainne and printed for the booths by Giz on time. Friday before the election. Chilla Bulbeck Thanks to the five Greens politicians, Top right: Michael Baldock acompanied by Rachel Siewert during his doorknocking. the 25 door-knockers, the 50 booth Giz Watson workers, the 20 phonebankers and the Above: Doorknocking in Geographe: Garry many other helpers who made this such Boase, Lou Beckering, Mark Holland, Michael Baldock, Lisa Gibson, Chilla Bulbeck, Daithi a great event. My special thanks to the O’Gliasain, Mary O’Byrne, Kevin Ball, Paula doorknocking teams: for organisational Samson. Kim Dravnieks

Green Issue October 2014 page 7 justice I peace and non-violence I participatory democracy I environmental sustainability The emergence of peace and nonviolence in The Greens (WA) – part 2 In the previous Green Issue, Jo Vallentine described her involvement in the peace and anti-nuclear movements in WA in the 70s and early 80s, up to her election in 1984 as a Senator representing the Nuclear Disarmament Party (NDP). This second instalment covers her experience as a Senator leading up to the formation of The Greens (WA). It is indeed appropriate to publish this account in October as it is Non-violence Month, celebrating UN International Day of Nonviolence which commemorates the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth on 2 October 1869. So, there I was, the teacher/activist mother of two young girls, catapulted into the Senate in the December 1984 election, but not taking up the position until July 1, 1985. It was a difficult time, being Senator-elect – no office, no staff, no salary, but everyone expecting me to be doing the job! I borrowed money to enable the campaigning to continue, but during that limbo, the NDP collapsed at its first national meeting, held in Melbourne in April, 1985. As we gathered for that significant meeting, it became very clear that how we'd operated in WA was not matched How’s your eye for detail? Swamped by suits, Jo as a member of the Joint Foreign Affairs, by other states. To cut a long story short, Trade and Defence Committee in 1990. Parliamentary photographer it was a meeting at which any member 1986, the International Year of Peace, the resources of the Senate office to that could be present, in line with the very when I was invited hither and yon to end. It was activism on steroids! It was open nature of the fledgling party. What events honouring our longing for peace, very effective and wonderfully had happened, particularly in Melbourne despite the Government's contradictions: satisfying for activists in the team after and Sydney was that the Socialist good on the Comprehensive Test Ban years of struggle in resource poor Workers' Party had made itself Treaty, creating the first Ambassador community groups. We opened our indispensable to party operations, and for Disarmament position, supporting office to numerous progressive now they wanted to expand party the South Pacific Nuclear Weapons Free organisations and instigated public fora, policies, to direct the way the party was Zone, but bad by allowing the three like the Just Defence conferences, giving going to proceed, and to direct the only mines uranium policy to be the public many opportunities to voice Senator who'd got elected. We implemented, by not challenging the its concerns. experienced “entryism” at that first US military's use of Pine Gap, North- Civil disobedience, or holy obedience meeting, and decided that the only way West Cape and Nurrungar, and by as I liked to call it, was one of the chosen forward was to walk away from a encouraging the visits of US warships ways of operating with the possibility compromised party structure, which to our ports. So, there was a great deal of an arrested, even imprisoned Senator allowed for people belonging to two of work to do. raising awareness of issues like Pine parties simultaneously. It was very Our office worked as a community Gap, nuclear testing at the Nevada test distressing, to say the least. empowerment resource, creating a site, and Australia following the United After consulting with the 800 plus WA Lobby for Peace network, whereby our States blindly into war. I waited until I members via mailouts and special research team would put out information thought my girls were old enough to meetings, the overwhelming number about any given topic, and ask the public get some idea of the notion of civil called for independence from the NDP. to act upon it. The staff actively disobedience before my first arrest. I So, by the time I officially became a campaigned on issues such as halting remember letting their teachers at school Senator, I'd had a birth of fire, and took visits of nuclear armed/powered know that I'd probably be in gaol soon, up the position as Independent Senator warships to WA ports, preventing and asked them to be sensitive to my for Nuclear Disarmament. I was on my uranium mining at Rudall River and motives in dealing with teasing which own, but with a great team around me, cancelling the lease at Pine Gap. We might occur. It did, and they were. and the support of many peace groups, saw part of our role as supporting the My daughter Kate, then eight years not only in WA, but from around the peace movement locally, nationally and old, wrote me a card reading: “Dear country. This was strengthened during internationally and could justifiably use Mum, I am so proud of you for

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Jo at Pine Gap in 1987, prior to her arrest. Jo with the Rudall River kids. Photographer unknown Photographer unknown going to gaol.” It still brings tears The challenge of carrying so many launch of The Greens (WA) occurred to my eyes. issues without parliamentary colleagues on 1 January 1990, so that we were in But Senatorial colleagues were not so was daunting. Not being a “oncer” any a position to run a much wider green proud – they were disgusted! I wrote a longer, I managed to talk my way onto agenda, with a three-woman Senate piece entitled “Rationale for Civil the coveted Joint Foreign Affairs, Trade team, and candidates in all 15 electorates Disobedience” so that my motives and and Defence Committee, the first non- for the March 1990 federal election. philosophy were on record. major party person, and the first woman to join the elite group. Promptly I opted While the NDP died quietly in WA, for the Defence sub-committee, where mainly because PND was still active, State conference I managed to frequently upset their cosy it kept going in NSW for some time, and in a strange precedent to what little applecart, and where my posts to Facebook recently happened in the 2013 Senate vegetarianism came under great scrutiny Pete Best on conference dinner elections, an NDP Senator was elected during our weekly dinners. speakers: Senator Rachel Siewert during for NSW in 1987 with less than 2% of Meanwhile, later in 1987, there was a the conference dinner: ‘The moment the vote. He was someone who'd been state election, during which a group we get the idea that our only role is to actively involved with the NDP split in called W.A. Greens ran a campaign in get politicians elected is the moment I 1985, so there was a rapprochement of various urban seats, as did the don’t want to be here.’ sorts, to enable us to work together for Alternative Coalition, plus the Green ‘Linking the threads for 30 years of one term. I had been re-elected by a Development group in the South-West. Greens history in WA – with Giz narrow margin in the 1987 election for People had had a taste of doing things Watson.’ the Vallentine Peace Group, so-called differently, and they wanted to claim because my name was quite well known space in the state Parliament as well as Robyn Williams: ‘As a grumpy critic by that time, having been outspoken in the Senate, but that was not to occur of pretty much all conferences I’ve ever and arrested, and importantly having until 1993. attended, for the waste of opportunity, an above-the-line spot on the ballot In 1989 we had a significant visitor to value and return on investment, the paper. WA in Petra Kelly, the amazing Green GWA state conference was the The Vallentine Peace Group comprised member of the Bunderstag in Germany. exception that demonstrated the various community organisations which She was inspiring and exhausting! We potential of getting a bunch of fabulous, were prepared to give me backing to filled the Octagon theatre, with people thoughtful, passionate, caring, intelligent retain the spot, people having realised keen to hear her message about the four and willing people together. An absolute that great resources could be shared by pillars of being green, which were bargain! I’m completely ready to take the community with a Senator in the latched onto with great enthusiasm. on Vasse and beyond. A Green ranks. Our team was encouraged by government by 2050, at the latest! Big many progressive community groups It was quite a job gathering in all the love and respect to Katrina, Chilla and to expand the agenda, so gradually we groups mentioned above to form a the conference crew.’ took on many issues, which were mostly coherent group, and much admiration not new to me, but which I had shied goes to Sue Hall and Annabelle away from because I felt obliged to Newbury who painstakingly managed stick to what the voters back in 1984 to keep meeting with all parties until had voted for me to tackle. agreement was reached. The formal

Green Issue October 2014 page 9 justice I peace and non-violence I participatory democracy I environmental sustainability

People's Climate Action takes to the (wet) streets Chris Johansen, Green Issue co-editor and Fremantle-Tangney member reports on the Perth climate action rally.

On the afternoon of 21 September a and government officials – the largest- Declaration on Forests, a clear large crowd filled Perth’s Russell Square ever climate meeting of world leaders. proclamation by world leaders that at a rally for action on climate change Tony Abbott decided not to attend, even retention and expansion of forests is a – one of 2,646 such events in 156 though he was in the USA the next day key to tackling climate change. countries, involving hundreds of for talks with the US President and at Prominent business leaders pledged thousands of people with climate the UN General Assembly. His place at emissions reductions in their enterprises concerns, including some 400,000 who the Summit was taken by Foreign and supported pricing of carbon. Various marched through the streets of New Minister Julie Bishop, who tried to initiatives were proposed to scale up York. Greens were at the Perth event explain, to an appropriately empty sustainable transport solutions like mass in force, but not so visible among the auditorium, what the Australian public transit, walking and cycling, and sea of umbrellas and raincoats on this government was doing about climate electric vehicles. very rainy day. While prominent persons change. Together, these actions and the positive such as Ban Ki Moon joined the New Nevertheless, despite the sour grapes vibes of the Summit have provided a York march, a local high profile figure, contributed by Australia, the general social licence for governments to act Fiona Stanley, spoke at the Perth rally. mood of the Summit was upbeat, decisively and agree to a new, ambitious In view of the Australian Government's according to an assessment by the World global agreement in 2015. The extent antipathy to action on climate change, Resources Institute to which Australia is left out in the cold the main message of the Perth rally was (www.wri.org/blog/2014/09/analyzing- in this endeavour seems to rest largely that it is time for the people to take their outcomes-un-climate-summit). Leaders in the hands of The Greens, in their own “direct action”. clearly demonstrated their understanding effectiveness in mobilising Australian

The Perth rally. Chris Johansen The rallies and marches around the that the impacts of climate change are public opinion towards meaningful world aimed to encourage delegates to real and costly, and that they no longer action on climate change. the UN Climate Summit in New York, have to choose between economic • • • held on the following Tuesday, to growth and climate action - they go galvanise and catalyse global climate hand-in-hand. Many countries Moore-Cowan, in combination with Stirling, organised a climate action action. This Summit didn't aim to nail reaffirmed their commitment to make picketing three local politicians' offices. down global agreements during the their post-2020 emissions reduction Mary O'Byrne, membership officer for meeting but was meant to build offers by the first quarter of 2015, as Moore-Cowan, explains. momentum towards a global agreement agreed in earlier UN climate meetings. on greenhouse gas reductions, to be However, Australia is yet to initiate We've had just one week to put these finalised in Paris at the end of 2015, even any internal debate on this, with three events together, get the coreflutes, hopefully a more robust follow-up to less than six months to go before that paint the signs ... And today 11 adults the now expired Kyoto Protocol. submission deadline. and three totally busy children turned The New York Summit brought Governments, companies, and civil up and had a fantastic venue to together more than 125 heads of state society groups issued the New York demonstrate at. You had to be

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there to hear the horns beeping and see people waving. We warned Michael Keenan's (Liberal member for Stirling) office, caused no panic, met with federal police who were very nice to us, and stayed in place outside the office for the two hours. Family friendly and effective. The hound in the picture below was liked by Scott Ludlam on twitter. We also picketed Luke Simpkins' and Ian Goodenough's offices, Liberal members for Cowan and Moore. • • • Broome Greens member Kevin Smith reports on the climate rally there: About 85 people turned out. This meant gathering for a photo opportunity overlooking Broome's iconic and Ramsar-listed Roebuck Bay. I spoke about the People's Climate Action events worldwide, their relevance to Australia and Broome's future. Martin Pritchard from Environs Kimberley reiterated the importance of the need for action on climate change, and focused on the immediate fossil fuel-related threat of fracking to Broome. • • • Alistair Spong reports from Margaret River. The wind dropped off early but heavy rain persisted, failing to deter 250 people rolling up to voice their concerns at Abbott's lousy policies and the slippery slope he's putting us on. New Greens member Naomi Godden did an incredible job as MC in very difficult conditions. Michael Baldock launched his campaign for Vasse with a stinging rebuke of WA's sneaky streetlight tax, and the monetary costs this imposes on our local council and the environment. The scheme effectively puts the kybosh on any efficiency measures or the technology changes needed to create a safe climate not to mention an efficient and competitive electricity system. A special mention of final year high school student Connor, who spoke of how he often views older generations as selfish – then ad-libbed most of his speech, when he found that standing in front of so many people on such a terrible day filled him with optimism Top: The Broome rally – not a cloud in sight! Kevin Smith Centre: The wet but determined Margaret River mob. Tarna Osbourne that positive change was possible. Above: The hound Scott Ludlam liked on Twitter. Mary O'Byrne

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Vasse photo roundup

Clockwise from top: Busselton stall, 12 October. (Grant Boxer); Doorknockers discussing their experiences and tallying their sheets. (Chilla Bulbeck); ‘Don’t risk electing the Greens. Vote Liberal’ polling booth placard from running-scared Liberals. (Giz Watson); The sign “reformatted” to ‘Risk electing the Greens’ by Giz Watson, campaign manager, and booth workers Robin Chapple, Lynn MacLaren, Guy McDonald, Behrooz Eslam and Nadine Walker. (young Nationals booth worker); The Vasse by-election campaign team strategises at State conference: Lynn MacLaren, Scott Ludlam, Rachel Siewert, Michael Baldock, and Giz Watson in the background. (Chris Johansen); Robyn Williams creating ‘Make Vasse Marginal Vote Green’ badges at Busselton Stall, 12 October. (Grant Boxer)

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Ringing in the Greenscheme drive a great success In September we launched a serious Katie O'Connor, Nick Wilson, Steve change: AGM drive to sign more members and Kepert, Jeannette Bartlett, Jordon Steele- supporters up to our regular giving John, Pete Best, Connor, Triona Scully results program Greenscheme, mailing a letter who co-ordinated many of the sessions, Chilla Bulbeck, outgoing GWA to all our members who are not signed Katie O'Connor, Nick Wilson, Steve secretary, reports briefly on the Annual up, as well as strong supporters. The Kepert, Jeannette Bartlett, Jordon Steele- General Meeting. message was: join our politicians who John, Pete Best, Connor Moran, Natasha donate one tenth of their salaries (and Annan, Mary O'Byrne, Steve Yuen, The AGM was held during the State more) to the Greens. We followed the Natasha Kepert, Lee Collis, Shauna Conference. Thanks were extended to letter up by ringing letter recipients who McGovern and Simone Mcinnes. had not signed up, as well as many many people who have kept The Greens If you are not yet a member of supporters. As a result, 49 new members (WA) functioning, including all Greenscheme, please join by filling out members of Administrative Working and supporters joined Greenscheme: 21 through the letter and 28 through our the form available on our website in the Group and the volunteers in the office ‘join’ section: – eg, Jay Birnbrauer, Margo Beilby, phonecalls. This increased our Greenscheme income by 14% and https://wa.greens.org.au/sites/greens.org.a Steve Yuen, Jean le Quesne and Kim u/files/imports/Greenscheme%20form%20 Wakely. After Giz Watson thanked secured well over $2000 in one-off donations. Thanks to the 15 volunteers Ver%202%20-%2020121106.pdf or ring Adam Duncan for his work as convenor, who made this possible: Triona Scully Rowena Skinner in the GWA office on Adam Duncan expressed thanks to who co-ordinated many of the sessions, 9221 8333. Rowena Skinner, Jenny Sullivan; all members of the Administration WG and all WGs which make the party function; Jess McColl and Anthony Blond for their enthusiasm and smarts; our politicians for their incredible amount of work; Curtin RG for setting him on his path; and in particular David Letham, the tireless Membership Officer. Adam thanked the whole party in general, concluding that we are becoming the last remaining party on the Left. Giz Watson reported on the great success of GWA as a party – eg, Phonebankers calling members to join Greenscheme. Catriona Scully increasing our membership, scrutineering the recount, doorknocking, and other aspects of the two Senate elections. Administrative processes have been revised and induction material for new members updated or introduced. There were now functioning local groups in Forrest-O'Connor and a local group in East Kimberley. The new officebearers, elected unopposed, are: Co-convenors Giz Watson and Grahame Bowland Treasurer Mark Siford Secretary Patrick Hyslop Young Greens hang with Hair. Young Greens and university students from the four UWA National Delegate: Adam Duncan campuses were invited to hang with Scott Ludlam shortly after second semester started. Congratulations to them all, and best Pictured are Back: Sarah Nielsen-Harvey, Nick Wilson, Cadell Eynon; Centre: Kyle Lipthorpe, Evana Coote, Louis Marchant, Scott Ludlam, Antonio Lumley, Silvia Lozeva, Jack Looby; Front: wishes for the year ahead. Georgia Blackburn, Jordon Steele-John, Kymberli Lim, Jordan Cahill, Jannika Jacky, Brady Johnston. very helpful Mechanic's Institute barman

Green Issue October 2014 page 13 justice I peace and non-violence I participatory democracy I environmental sustainability Is Green sustainable? The responses Pearce-Hasluck member Arthur Rosenwald ([email protected]), discusses the responses to his article in the June Green Issue, posted when it was published on the Australian Greens magazine website http://greens.org.au/magazine/national/green- sustainable Arthur recommended starting ventures to show the public that we are prepared to get our hands dirty, and physically show them that there's a way to make the world a better place. I don't know how many people read Parliament in Australia and called for possible” in gaining incremental the article, but 14 written responses an end to growth, labelled growth as environmental, social and economic appear to indicate a raw nerve. I hope the ideology of the cancer cell, and (sustainability) improvements, rather we can be convinced to at least begin called for economic contraction. Instead than “all or nothing” you will remain a small force.’ thinking about a slightly different they add another contradiction to the • • • approach to our version of politics. The capitalist dialogue in calling for growth ‘In the leadup to the last state election, writers have given permission to be to be “greener” so we can all be more The Greens asked that members and quoted, and a selection is printed here. prosperous and consume more.’ supporters simply talk to people about ‘I fully accept what you're saying, but • • • Green policies. I did, and was absolutely I'm afraid that the fact that we are called ‘Just writing to express my shocked at the instantaneous responses: “extremists” is just going to be par for appreciation for the article you wrote “Greens spoil everything”; “Greens are the course. Practically anyone espousing for the national magazine. I'm glad closing down the mines/forests”; progressive ideas will be an extremist someone has said it so well. It's true, “Greens hate small business”; ”Greens in the eyes of the general populace and most of the population aren't listening want to close down the state and only to us. In which case, we need to start the institutions in power. I guess there's have national parks” – and even “those doing rather than talking, and what we not much to be done about it, except to Greens want to kill off all the old need to be doing are precisely the kind people”.’ implement the sort of stuff you're • • • of projects you are talking about.’ suggesting until “the others” “get it”!’ ‘I have made the following suggestion • • • • • • before at a state level and think it could ‘Just read your article and congratulate ‘I quit the Green Party because I am be a starting point for change, in a your ideas ... I have found that the not sure the planet can be saved even if similar manner to Bush Heritage ask ignorance about our party and our Green people to make regular Green policies are implemented. I am policies is overwhelming, and farmers a biologist and cannot comprehend how contributions to a Green small business here in my Shire, retired or still active, fund; use this money to fund a business we can fix the problems due to our hate us ... I have Greens stickers on my lifestyle without addressing with at least (ethically Green) and when the money vehicle. We should encourage this sort is repaid, fund another. These businesses as much vigour the issue of our sheer of public advertising, saying we are numbers. I'm not convinced that Green would be promoted publicly as funded here, everywhere! Unfortunately very by Green members. Obviously it would policies are anywhere near adequate in few Greens members do this and say be small to begin with but would be a tackling that issue. Social equity alone that their car could be damaged or they way to for many Green-minded bods to will not save us and the climate, it is might be harassed if they wear a Green contribute without being openly way too late for that. If you can't even T-shirt.’ political, and could raise the public get people to vote for a party that • • • image of The Greens.’ proposes solutions which will only ‘I am a swinging voter who has voted prolong our impact on nature (until we Green on many occasions. My main get restricted because we have nothing problem is that Greens appear to have left to rape), how on earth would people “spat the dummy” on at least two vote to change the current economic occasions when they could not get their and societal model to one of degrowth own way. The first was a few years ago which is what is needed now?’ when you voted against a carbon price. • • • I know you wanted a higher price, but ‘I am a one-time member of The sticking to that at all costs appeared Greens. I agree with your conclusion ideological rather than practical. What that a party is required that is prepared a missed opportunity! The second was to challenge the dominant paradigm of recently, when you voted against the capitalism and economic & population fuel levy even though it was your policy. growth directly rather than going softly, You could, at least, have attempted to softly … Let me know if I am wrong, negotiate with the government and make but I don't think any elected Green it known they refused. Until the Greens Arthur and wife Trudy at a demonstration for politician has ever stood up in a are seen as “practiced in the art of the asylum aeekers in February.

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Rachel Siewert Australian Greens Senator for WA

As usual it has been full-on lately, so The Bill will see around 28,000 people residents and traditional owners. It is it was especially enjoyable to be at the aged under 35 who receive the DSP important that remote communities are State conference between the last two reassessed under new impairment tables, supported and invested in, and that weeks of Parliament. I went back fired with a view to dumping many onto the effective measures are put in place to up to oppose the awful changes to our lower payment of Newstart or Youth address safety and health issues, such social security system. Allowance, thus making it even harder as those prevalent in Oombulgurri. for people with disability to find work. Simply removing services and forcing The conference was a terrific Another measure will reduce the people from communities does not opportunity to gather with members and portability of the DSP - meaning people address these issues, and highlights talk about the future of WA and the with disability will be only be allowed flaws in the approach taken by both nation, and the important role the Greens to travel overseas for up to four weeks state and federal governments. have to play for a better future for instead of the present six, or face losing people, the environment and our I have been continuing to work on income support. These budget measures communities. I got lots of really valuable constitutional recognition of Aboriginal have the potential to markedly affect input into our caring for people strategy and Torres Strait Islander peoples. the quality of life of people with Although support in the community for so look out for the next instalment of disability, and we will be opposing the WA 2.0. recognition continues, many people are Bill. distracted by ongoing funding for It was also great to visit the South The government hasn't given up on services in the face of government cuts. West to help out with the Vasse by- the other cuts it wants to make, and we We now head to Senate Estimates, election and spend time with candidate will continue to oppose them. Michael Baldock and his team. During where there is a lot of work to do digging the visit I spoke about the importance In Parliament we also sought to draw into the government's policy decisions of food security and protecting local attention to proposed demolition of the and actions during its first year in office. industry from threats such as climate remote WA community of Oombulgurri, The ministers have been in place long change, and ensuring that we maintain with the Senate supporting my motion enough now to take ownership for their the safe-food culture that is so strong to halt the demolition and calling for departments and their decisions, and we in the region. the WA government to work with will hold them to account. In the last sitting period we saw the government begin debate on the two Social Services Amendment Bills that contain the majority of the budget cuts and changes to our social security system. This includes the increase in the retirement age, cuts to indexation and efforts to dump young job seekers off Newstart for six months a year. Rather than allowing these doomed bills to go to an embarrassing vote, the government took rushed steps to split them into new bills, one of which looks set to pass the Senate with the support of the ALP. This Bill will still affect many Australians, including families and single parents, students and, in Rachel with Vasse by-election candidate Michael Baldock at Samudra food event, 4 October. particular, people with disability. GizWatson

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Scott Ludlam Australian Greens Senator for WA

Australian politics has taken a dark Closer to home the campaign to save failing to even field a candidate, it turn, with the spillover of the Syrian Point Peron is coming to a head, with became a three-way contest between civil war into Iraq provoking a military Commonwealth Environment Minister moribund Liberal and National response from an Australian government Hunt blindly signing off on the candidates and a high-energy Greens desperate for a respite from its destruction of the area. The campaign campaign, and it is amazing seeing the unpopularity at home. A huge raft of now steps up a notch, with focus turning results. “national security” legislation - some to the Rockingham Council, the Around the country – whether in of it years in gestation - is being rushed investment community and Vasse, the strongly-contested by- through the Parliament in a climate of householders considering buying into elections playing out in Newcastle, or fear. ASIO legislation criminalising the canal development. The strength of the amazing effort going into the national security journalism marks a the campaign is a tribute to the work of Victorian state election campaign – it's new low point; unfortunately the local residents and Greens members clear that The Greens are investing a backlash came far too late, with the next who have continued to step up the massive amount of time and energy in Bill already upon us. In the pipeline for pressure. taking our electoral ambitions to the October and November is a proposal It was also a real pleasure to see next level, as the only consistently for mandatory data retention that has everyone throwing maximum support progressive political movement in the been washing around inside the Attorney behind Michael Baldock and the team country. It really is an amazing time to General's department since at least 2008. in the Vasse by-election. With Labor be doing this work. The department now has a weak and compliant Minister in Attorney General George Brandis, who is forging ahead despite not having a clue about how it will work, what it will cost, or even basic details about the technology he proposes to regulate. In summary, the proposal is to force telecommunications providers – phone and internet companies – to trap and store vast quantities of data on our movements, communications and social relationships, for two years. This is meant to be for everything from mundane police work to large-scale data mining and social network mapping by intelligence agencies. Because hundreds of agencies will have access to these new pools of data without having to apply for a warrant, the proposal simply has to be stopped. Go online, look up #StopDataRetention on twitter and facebook, and get busy. We have to find 38 votes to stop the Bill, and we don't Scott, Rachel, Michael and Christine visit Luke McCauley's Solargain business during the Vasse have long. by-election campaign. Giz Watson

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Lynn MacLaren MLC, South Metro

I'm sure all Greens MPs can relate to I supported a motion to disallow the I was also given the honour of talking how it feels when we backtrack through imposition of certain charges to residents at the memorial of John Pat, a 16-year- the volume of work we have done over of retirement villages, when the State old indigenous boy who died in police two months, to squash it into a tight government reneged on undertakings custody 31 years ago, after he was summary for Green Issue. It serves as given in 2012 that costs not directly assaulted. The State government must an update for the readers but also a nice related to the operation of a retirement make more of a commitment to pat on the back for members, staff and village would not be borne by residents. addressing deaths in custody. volunteers who never lose momentum Unfortunately, the disallowance was I joined the start of the Mayors for on issues that matter. defeated. I worked hard to protect Peace walk from Bathers Beach, residents in retirement villages from The past two months have seen a Fremantle, with a global call to prohibit these costs , and it’s a shame that the significant win for the community. The nuclear weapons, whilst celebrating the government broke its promise on the intense burst of campaigning since opening of Fremantle Peace Grove. I issue. We also debated my Climate December against shark culling has then joined hundreds of thousands of Change Motion, which passed despite people worldwide as part of the People's reaped success, with the Premier wrecking-ball amendments by the Climate Mobilisation, demanding more backing down after the EPA government. recommended against the nonsensical action to address climate change. Rain three-year drum line proposal along WA The past two months have also seen on the day did not deter protestors. plenty of work at a grass roots level. I beaches. This is a huge win for the The weekend before I picnicked with had the pleasure of once again speaking majority of Western Australians, who 700 community members who at the Equal Love rally for marriage supported the science when opposing equality. My upcoming forum peacefully protested to protect Point the drum lines. discussing the constitutionality of our Peron from a canal estate. Despite a great recommendation on Same-Sex Marriage Bill is just round The past two months culminated in a sharks, the EPA lurched into controversy the corner and will offer peace of mind wonderful three day Greens State after it was found that at least 25 projects for MPs, lawyers and stakeholders who Conference where I discussed live over a decade were invalid, due to a may be unsure of how my Bill would export, LGBTI, GMOs, food, self- conflict of interest within its board work at a State level alongside the sufficient communities (and much more) members. Among such projects were federal Marriage Act. as well as the Vasse by-election the Roe 8 proposal through Beeliar Wetlands, and the development on Underwood Ave bushland. The Greens (WA) have called for the approvals to be revoked and undergo a thorough environmental assessment from an overhauled EPA board, and do not support retrospective legislation introduced to validate these two approvals. The much-anticipated Mental Health Bill finally passed. We have always believed that the provision of adequate, affordable and coordinated services for all people with mental illness is a high priority, and that these people should have access to high-quality mental health care treatment. Lynn speaking at Same Sex Marriage rally. Johnny Vidovich

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Robin Chapple MLC, Mining & Pastoral Region

I was laid low with a mystery bug for responsibility for environmental Aboriginal Heritage Act that threaten most of the State Conference weekend, approvals to the states, it also wants to to make it easier to destroy Aboriginal but did manage to deliver my talk on divest itself of providing essential heritage sites. At a recent bush meeting the federal government's plan to delegate services for remote Aboriginal at Yule River, representatives of many power for major projects assessments communities. This would see a shortfall Pilbara Aboriginal groups voted to reject and approvals to the states. The states in funding to the states, without a the AHA amendments. The previous have proved to be poor guardians of commensurate increase from state day, in the Kimberley, 400 members of areas of national environmental government coffers, resulting in a the Kimberley Land Council voted significance. If this plan goes ahead, downgrade of service delivery. At least unanimously against the changes; while the winners will be mining companies 180 communities in WA will be on 16 September members of Perth's and property developers, while the losers affected, and I am deeply concerned Nyoongar community organised a rally would be local communities, our shared that the state government will exploit outside Parliament House denouncing environmental assets, and our unique the situation to shut down more. Despite the proposals. There are too many ecosystems. (Since my talk I have decades of living together on this island problems with the amendments to go learned that the Australian Greens have continent, governments still do not know secured an agreement with the Palmer into here but they include giving more how to relate to Aboriginal people. powers to the Department of Aboriginal United Party to block Abbott's plan – Without developing appropriate which would, according to Greens Affairs CEO to make decisions about governance measures we are no closer Senator Larissa Waters, wind back Aboriginal heritage, while stripping to living together in respect, environment protection in Australia by members of the Aboriginal Cultural understanding, peace and harmony than more than 30 years. Go Greens!) Materials Committee and Traditional we were when our shared history began. Owners of their authority. In short, the Black death in custody Opposition grows to Aboriginal amendment undermines the rights of I was shocked and saddened recently Heritage Act amendments Aboriginal people to protect their sites, to learn of the death in custody of 22- while making it easier for developers year-old Pilbara Aboriginal woman, Aboriginal leaders in the Kimberley, Pilbara and Perth have rejected the WA to destroy those sites, in contravention Julieka Dhu. The reason for her death of the Racial Discrimination Act. has yet to be determined but a witness government's plans to amend the state's in an adjacent cell said she was vomiting and crying out in pain for three days before she died. The Coroner will hold an inquest into the matter, though that may be some time away. I hope the findings will eventually bring some comfort to the family. This appalling situation must not be allowed to be repeated. Over the past few weeks I have been speaking to the media and asking Parliamentary questions at every opportunity, and will do all in my power to bring the relevant officials and Ministers to account to ensure this matter is not swept under the carpet. Services to remote Aboriginal communities to be handed to States What is it with the Abbott government? Robin discusses the AHA amendments with senior Wadjari man Anthony Dann at the Yule Not only does it want to hand River meeting. selfie by Robin

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Humour in uniformity: A selection of cartoonist Simon Hudson’s takes on voting, and Australian politics generally.

Regional Groups Name Contact Meeting Brand Jordon 0427 681 296 Wednesday before Saturday Reps. Contact convenor for venue. Canning Kim 0418 434 140 1st Tuesday of month, 5.45pm for 6pm start, Armadale library. Curtin Katie 0405 327 436 1st Thursday of month, 7pm Earthwise, 315 Bagot Rd, Subiaco. Fremantle/Tangney Rob 9335 4446 Thurs before Saturday Reps, 7pm, Fremantle Town Hall Reception Room. Moore/Cowan Kevin 0407 192 279 1st Wed of month, 7.30pm, Cmty Ctr, 5 Trappers Dr Woodvale (behind library). Pearce/Hasluck Jo 0435 273 760 1st Mon of month,7.30pm, Mechanics Institute, 20 Meadow St Guildford Perth Tim 0419 914 722 1st Tuesday of month (exc Jan), 6.30pm, Bayswater Drill Hall. Forrest/O’Connor Michael [email protected] Mthly e-meetings, three-monthly face-to-face, various SW venues. Stirling Tom 0408 093 279 1st Thursday of month, 7.30pm, Enviro Centre, Groat St North Beach. Swan Kieran 0410 870 144 1st Wednesday of month, 6pm. Ring office for venue. Local Groups Name Contact Busselton/Dunsborough Michael 0403 386 250 Margaret River Alistair 0402 572 645 South Coast Greens Karen 0435 056 340 Bunbury Rae [email protected] East Kimberley Jade [email protected] Working Groups Convenor Contact Admin & Constitution Grahame & Giz [email protected] Policy Mark 0439 986 858 National Adam 0406 857 822 ICT Pete [email protected] Refugee Action Lisa 0404 762 694 Young Greens Sarah & Jordan 0416 971 591 Donor Relations Kim [email protected] Cap Bldg & Training Robyn [email protected] Parliamentarians Member Phone Fax Office Staff Senator Rachel Siewert 9228 3277 9228 4055 1/151 Brisbane St, Northbridge Chris, Jess, Rose,Tenille, Andrew Senator Scott Ludlam 9335 7477 9335 7499 8 Cantonment St, Fremantle Trish,Chantal,Sarah,Rachel,Aistair,Renai Mining & Pastoral MLC Robin Chapple 9486 8255 9486 8355 41 Havelock St, West Perth Nina, Maria, Betty South Metro MLC Lynn MacLaren 9430 7233 9430 7207 7/142 South Terrace, Fremantle Shane, Nadine Officebearers Name Phone Email Co-convenors Grahame Bowland c/- office [email protected] If you are unable to contact any office Giz Watson c/- office [email protected] bearers or working group convenors Secretary Patrick Hyslop c/- office [email protected] listed here, please ring the office during Treasurer Mark Siford c/- office [email protected] business hours for assistance. Membership David Letham c/- office [email protected] Office Rowena Skinner 9221 8333, fax 9221 8433 [email protected] – www.wa.greens.org.au

Authorised by R Delves, 31 Gibson st Beaconsfield 6162. Printed by The Greens (WA). Published by The Greens (WA) ABN 41 747 355 722, 445 Hay St, Perth 6000, in printed form and online at www.wa.greens.org.au Contributing editors Rob Delves, Chilla Bulbeck, Chris Johansen • Design & layout Craig Chappelle Please direct articles, photos, comments etc to [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected] Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of The Greens (WA).

Green Issue October 2014 page 19