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Rock art custodians attack green light for Pluto gas project

Burrup peninsular rock art photo courtesy FARA

16 October 2007 - Environment Minister Malcolm Turnbull has approved Woodside's Pluto gas project. (AAP: Mark Graham))

The custodians of ancient Aboriginal rock art on the Burrup Peninsula, in north-west Western Australia, have condemned the Federal Government's approval of Woodside's Pluto gas project.

On Friday, Environment Minister Malcolm Turnbull gave environmental clearance, with construction expected to begin within the week.

But the Commonwealth is also considering an application by the Wong-goo-tt-oo people for a 'section 10' which would offer permanent heritage protection to the engravings.

More than 40 carvings have already been moved to make way for the $12 billion project, with up to 200 more yet to be relocated.

Elder Wilfred Hicks says he is disappointed in the Federal Government.

"I think it's a terrible decision. They are supposed to be helping Aboriginal people on their land. It's breaking up our bible. The Aboriginal bible is on those rocks," he said.

Source: ABC

Further information: burrup issues page - includes news index and external links