Protesters have been a constant presence during land clearing for Roe 8.
Camera IconProtesters have been a constant presence during land clearing for Roe 8. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Anti-Perth Freight Link group to wait on Saturday’s poll result

Bryce LuffCockburn Gazette

The planned $1.9 billion extension of Roe Highway to Fremantle port has generated plenty of attention in recent months, with land clearing for the 5km first stage, Roe 8, irking protesters keen to see the project delayed until after the election.

Labor has pledged to scrap the project if it takes government. Conversely, the Liberal Party wants to finish it.

While the Liberal Party looks set for a battle to retain power, Rethink Perth Freight Link alliance convenor Kim Dravnieks said she was not celebrating yet.

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“Never trust pre-election polls,” she said. “But I’m an optimist. I hope West Aussies will see the benefit in changing governments.”

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When asked if protesters would continue their fight to end Roe 8 should the Liberal Party retain government, Ms Dravnieks gave nothing away.

“I couldn’t say,” she said. “That decision would be up to the organisation.”

Thousands have flocked regularly to work sites in Coolbellup and Bibra Lake to voice their anger against clearing of Beeliar Wetlands.

Transport Minister Bill Marmion chose against asking them to end their ongoing crusade, even if the Liberals are voted in for a third straight term.

“People have the right to protest peacefully and within the bounds of the law,” he said. “If any laws are broken or safety has been compromised, there are processes in place to deal with that.”

Ms Dravnieks said the Cockburn Community Wildlife Corridor group was taking steps to ensure it has a head start on any rehabilitation work, should it get approval to do so.