Last year three generations of First Nations Bidewell families visited the Bidewell reserve on the Errinundra Plateau, where logging is scheduled. Over 60 coupes are on the schedule on Bidewell Country around Errinundra/Cottonwood forests
But there is no consent from Bidewell Elder's to log, or be on their traditional lands. Last year Bidwell-Maap Traditional Owners have written a letter to the Victorian government condemning logging planned in the Bidewell reserve near the Errinundra Plateau.
"The reserve is under the custodianship of the Bidewell people, we have had no one approach us to ask for permission to go onto country. Before going onto country there needs to be consultation, there has been no consultation with Elders and Traditional Owners of the land." - Uncle Bevan Hayes, Bidewell Elder
"Grandfather Gobian was our main ancestor so I just want to acknowledge Grandfather and all those ancestors after. They were the true survivors and in Gippsland where some of the worst massacres that occurred trying to kill Gunnai mob and Bidewell mob."- Desley O'Dwyer
"And like all those animals, that this became a refuge when the bushfires raged, our ancestors ran and found refuge here. And Bidewell mob took on a lot of other mob and we wouldn't be alive today without those ancestors surviving so that we could be here." - Desley O'Dwyer
For over 3 months community members and supports have been taking action to disrupt logging on Bidewell country with the support from Traditional Owners. We stand with them and Bidewell custodians who want to see an end of the destruction of country.