It might be slightly weathered, but a red banner has proudly served as a voice for one Port Stephens group over the past three years.
The Mambo-Wanda Wetlands Conservation Group (MWWCG) removed its ‘Save Mambo Wetlands’ banner at the weekend after the state government decided to purchase a six-hectare patch of prime koala habitat in Salamander Bay.
The land, which was controversially sold to a developer for $250,000 in an online auction in 2016, reportedly cost the government $420,000 to buy back.
During the ceremony on Sunday, MWWCG stated it wanted assurances from recently appointed planning minister Rob Stokes, who was also in the role three years ago, that it would not be put on the market again.
The group claimed Mr Stokes’ department ignored its own reports before the sale.
These documents included hundreds of emails from the Port Stephens community imploring him not to sell; a submission from Port Stephens Council asking that Mambo not be sold; and a letter and petition from local MP Kate Washington requesting it be taken off the market.
There was also a biodiversity report that noted the block of land contained endangered flora and fauna, including koalas.
While MWWCG welcomed the government’s decision to buy back the land, secretary Kathy Brown said the fight was not over yet.
“We are glad it happened, but we still need assurances that it won’t happen again,” she said.
“You have to wonder why the department missed all those red flags that were raised.”
Mr Stokes said the government’s purchase ensured the land was returned to the community for future generations to enjoy.
“This site sits adjacent to the ecologically important Mambo Wetlands, which is treasured by the community and has a strong Aboriginal history and connection for the local Maaiangal people,” he said.
“This purchase will improve access to public open space for the community and visitors alike, while protecting an undisturbed coastal environment that is an important part of the area’s history.”
Ms Brown said MWWCG was in the process of developing a video showing the qualities that made Mambo and Wanda Wetlands such unique places.
It will also support Port Stephens Council’s three-year plan for regeneration within the wetlands.
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