Residents urged to Rethink the Link

By Stacey Ryde Federal government approval for the controversial extension of Roe Highway has angered many residents. The move by Environment Minister Greg provoked backlash among community members who are afraid it will destroy the Beeliar wetlands. “The government has now had to spend nearly half a million dollars on a PR propaganda campaign to counter us, so we are obviously making a significant difference,” said Rethink the Link coordinator, Kim Dravnieks. Rethink the Link is an alliance of community groups including the Labor party, Greens Senator Scott Ludlam, local greens MP Lynn MacLaren and a range of community and resident groups. The alliance is calling on the state and federal government to rethink their commitment to the Perth Freight Link, and its pursuit of the Roe Highway extension. “We have a choice, we can sit back, do nothing and let a massively expensive freeway destroy a place of beauty,” said Ms Dravnieks. “We can watch as our communities are fragmented by a six lane truck freeway and poisoned by the diesel plumes making our children sick. “Or we can make a stand, find a better solution and convince the egos behind the ridiculous project to rethink.” The Roe 8 will transform the area east of Karel Avenue in Jandakot to Stock Road in Coolbellup, where it will direct heavy traffic from suburban roads, including Leach Highway.   Bibra Lake resident Bill said it’s a waste of money and is uncertain the current campaigning will continue to prevent the highway extension. “For it to come through an area like this is ridiculous, it’s a great little place,” said Bill. “We used to have a little bandicoot living in our backyard, but this bush will soon be demolished to make way for a highway.”