Logging halt continues

Protesters have halted logging at Challar Forest near Walpole for more than a month since setting up camp in January.

A platform 40m above the ground was erected in a karri tree in the centre of the Challar Forest which protestors have been taking turns to sleep in.

WA Forest Alliance spokeswoman Jess Beckerling said about 100 people have stayed at the camp in the past five weeks.

“There is always one person permanently in the tree house while the others are supporting them in the camp,” she said.

“It’s serving to protect the area and remind people of the urgency of protecting the forest, protecting our endangered species and water quality.”

Ms Beckerling said the protestors would stay as long as it takes to stop logging at the site.

“We are dedicated to protecting the Deep River catchment and working towards ensuring there is a link created between the two parts of the Walpole wilderness area,” she said.

Protester Donna O’Brien acted in a liaison role with the loggers and said the campaign had been respectful between all parties.

“We haven’t had any sort of conflict, there’s been some really good discussion between the loggers, tourism operators, the WA Forest Alliance and Forest Products Commission,” she said.

In November, Environment Minister Albert Jacob approved a proposed Forest Management Plan 2014-2023 which would guide management of South West native forests over the next decade.