Shire of Augusta-Margaret River council defers tricky conversation around climate outlook and tourism

Shire councillors have deferred a decision on the future of the local government’s sustainability outlook amid a challenge from its own expert advisers. Last week’s Shire of Augusta-Margaret River council meeting heard sustainability advisory committee members Peta Goodwin and respected organic farmer and former Shire president Jamie McCall argue in favour of an alternative policy put forward to replace the Shire’s overarching sustainability policy, currently up for review. As reported previously, the SAC-preferred alternative seeks a focus on “degrowth” amid criticism of local government language seen to provide “moral satisfaction” rather than meaningful action on climate change. “It allows us to continue to believe that we are doing ‘sustainability’ well, that things are under control and can be managed without major disruption,” Ms Goodwin said. A majority of SAC members believed the Shire’s revised policy needed to keep in step with scientific advice as well as social values around sustainability. Continued growth under existing scenarios was unsustainable, though such a position potentially clashed with State planning guidelines, it was said. The policy proposed by officers “will not deliver us a sustainable future,” Ms Goodwin told elected members. Mr McCall said the Shire’s promotion of tourism and the contribution of tourism and associated air travel to carbon emissions also needed close examination. In backing the alternative, he said the council would “have the courage and bravery to recognise the truths the SAC has brought to them as a committee of council”. Mr McCall urged adoption of the alternative so the Shire could show leadership, forge a new path, and allow a greater community debate. “It is a discussion that we can choose to have now or have forced upon us at some future, but likely near-term date,” he said. “If our region is not going to initiate a realistic discussion on the future of tourism in a world facing emissions limits, then you have to ask who else will take the responsibility.” Deputy Shire president Julia Meldrum moved to defer the item, supported by Cr Tracey Muir, with a strategic workshop to be held before any further decision.