Waste fight in Nambucca Valley pits national park against growth

Key points

• Nambucca Valley Council has deferred a decision on buying 23 hectares of state forest to expand its waste facility. Councillors voted 5-1 for the delay, and a more detailed report on the site will be prepared before the matter returns.
• Local MP Michael Kemp urged the council to act before the Great Koala National Park is gazetted, warning the land is needed to manage future waste. Conservationists oppose the plan, citing endangered species and cultural values on the site.
• Councillors Jane MacSmith and David Jones argued for a joint Mid North Coast waste strategy.