takayna defender Viola Barnes, known to visitors as Tyto, is climbing down out of her treesit on Saturday after a mammoth 72 day treesit. Tyto has occupied a treesit in the vicinity of mining company MMG’s proposed toxic tailings dam to highlight the rainforest at risk.
“It is time for me to come down from the canopy. Somebody else or many, many climbers will step up and occupy this threatened canopy,” said Tyto.
Bob Brown Foundation has reoccupied the rainforest at Mckimmie Creek in Tasmania’s takayna / Tarkine since December 2022 ahead of an expected decision by Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek on whether to approve drilling and roading works for the tailings dam.
“Our vigil continues and hundreds of members of the public have visited the camp in just the past two months to experience these ancient rainforests and see for themselves what is at risk,” said Bob Brown Foundation takayna / Tarkine Campaigner Scott Jordan.
“MMG still wants to destroy this critical Masked Owl breeding territory for a heavy metals waste dump. Instead, we are calling on Minister Plibersek to protect takayna for its World Heritage values.”
“Until that happens, we will hold our defence of this ancient place.”
While in the tree sit, Tyto has shared her experience with the world via Bob Brown Foundation’s social media channels over the past 72 days, including her observations of the family of black cockatoos nesting in the neighbouring tree.
“I think the thing she will miss the most is her feathered neighbours,” Jordan said.
“Tyto has been an exceptional ambassador for the rainforest and the creatures that have shared her canopy world. Her excitement has engaged and inspired so many to stand in defence of this place. We thank her for her dedication.”