Helicopter camping proposal under fire

LABOR is questioning the impact of a proposal for helicopter access to a fly-fishing camp planned for the state’s World Heritage Area.

Braddon candidate Justine Keay and Opposition environment spokesman Tony Burke say anglers are concerned their remote trout fishing expeditions will be ruined by choppers.

The Lake Malbena standing camp proposal, put forward under the State Government’s wilderness tourism expression of interest process, is being assessed under the federal Environment, Biodiversity and Conservation Act.

“Anglers are worried helicopter access will impact upon the experience traditionally enjoyed by bushwalkers and bushwalking anglers who have accessed this area by foot over many decades,” Mr Burke said.

“Local anglers walk into these areas to enjoy a remote fishing experience, not have a helicopter buzzing overhead.”

Mr Burke joined Ms Keay on the campaign trail ahead of the Braddon “super Saturday” by-election on July 28.

Liberal rival Brett Whiteley, campaigning with Federal Minister for Resources Matt Canavan, accused Mr Burke of using the issue to harvest preferences from Greens voters.

“I reckon I've knocked on 1000 doors personally over the last three or four weeks — I have not heard that issue once,” Mr Whiteley said.