Community campaign succeeds: HMAS Penguin saved from sale.

The community has achieved a major result. HMAS Penguin has been saved from sale, following the efforts of the thousands of people who stood up to protect this irreplaceable public asset.

“Under the outcome announced, the precious Angophora forest will be transferred to the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, securing its protection, while HMAS Penguin itself will remain in Defence hands,” said community activist and organiser of the Convoy to Canberra, Michael Randall.

He has announced that the Convoy to Canberra, planned for 23 November, will be called off following the successful outcome.

“This is an extraordinary victory for the community.”

Michael Randall

“We came together because we believed that HMAS Penguin, its remarkable natural environment and its heritage were too important to lose. We made our voices heard, and the Government has listened,” Mr Randall said.

“We have succeeded in achieving protection for this vital asset. The Angophora forest will be protected for future generations, and the Defence site will remain in Defence hands.

“We thank the Prime Minister and the Minister for Finance for responding to the voice of the people and recognising the importance of protecting this remarkable place.”

Mr Randall thanked everyone who showed up for the rallies, wrote, called or spoke up — and everyone who put their hand up for the planned convoy.

He also thanked the Headland Preservation Group, Mosman Parks & Bushland Association, Mayor Ann Marie Kimber and Mosman Council.

“This campaign has demonstrated something very powerful: never underestimate the strength of a community united behind a cause,” Mr Randall said.

“The rallies, the letters, the phone calls, the public advocacy and the planned Convoy to Canberra all helped make it clear that this was an issue the community would not let go.

“People of all political backgrounds came together for this common cause.

“Today, we can celebrate what collective community action can achieve.”

The decision represents a significant result for the local community, environmental protection and the preservation of Sydney Harbour’s natural and heritage assets.

The message is clear: when a community stands together and refuses to give up, it can make a difference.

ENDS

Media enquiries: Michael Randall
0412 229 725
hello@convoytocanberra.com.au