I own up to not speaking up often enough and I am working on it but this is one speaking up I am happy to share – not just from me but a whole slew of the population who were appalled at the plans for Toondah Harbour in Cleveland.

There were plans afoot to develop this area massively.Plans for a 400 berth marina, foreshore development and multi-level residential, retail and commercial developments were proposed.

This is a wetlands area which is frequented by many migratory birds as well as shore birds and the development plans would have endangered nesting and breeding grounds and habitats. The tidal flats and mangroves are important habitats for fish, crustaceans, green turtles and many more.

Walker Corporation withdrew its application after Tanya Plibersek, the Federal Minister for the Environment and Water of Australia rejected the development because of the unacceptable impact it would have on the Ramsar-listed wetland and threatened species such as the critically endangered eastern curlew.

The project was opposed by an almost decade-long community campaign backed by scientists and conservationists because of the impact it would have on irreplaceable habitat.

Many protests, sit ins, and petitions were organised and the result was a resounding success for preserving these wetlands. We strolled around them with joy on this bank holiday.

One fishy thong looking for a fishy mate …