What: A visually striking peaceful demonstration of local opposition to the imposition of nuclear power on Gippsland
Where: Kay Street Traralgon (Eastern end across from post office)
When: Tuesday 15th April, 2025
11:30-1:30 Nannas against Nuclear “Knit-in”
12:15 Key moment with speakers and group photo
Photo/TV op: Hundreds of cardboard sunflowers with messages from local residents will surround the Nannas against Nuclear as they participate in a knit-in calling for a nuclear-free Gippsland.
Context
Opposition to the imposition of a nuclear power plant on the existing sites of retired coal power stations has drawn together many disparate voices from across Gippsland and become a major election issue.
To give local and national media the opportunity to capture images and video of that opposition, over 600 Gippsland residents have written statements of their opposition to Peter Duttons nuclear plans.
Many have cited the unresolved long-lasting legacy of nuclear waste as the basis for their opposition, others the high costs of establishing nuclear power and extended construction timeframes, and many encouraging the Victorian state government to stay the course with renewable energy – which is already at 40% energy generation.
The peaceful protest will also ask why local MP Darren Chester has consistently refused to meet with local constituents to hear their concerns and opposition to a nuclear facility in their electorate.
This visual display set out by the community seeks to convey to Darren Chester and the national media the level of dissatisfaction and resistance to the proposal.
Anna Hall, spokesperson for Nanna’s against Nuclear from Boollara, said:
“I’m concerned about the future of my children and my grandchildren. I want to make sure they have a clean, healthy future and I don’t think nuclear is safe.”
“It’s asking for trouble, it’s like having a bomb in our neighbourhood and opens us up to all sorts of accidents and incidents. Look at what’s happening in Ukraine and how the nuclear facility there is being used as a war tool. I think it’s not the right way to go.”
Hayley Sestokas, Latrobe Valley Senior organiser for Environment Victoria, said:
“Nuclear is a dangerous distraction that’s been lumped on our community for political gain. It’s clear from the lack of consultation by the coalition and Mr. Chester’s refusal to meet with local people on this issue, that this was never about what’s best for our community.”
“Hundreds of people from across the region have shared concerns and reasons why they are opposed to nuclear power. So today, we are sharing those messages with MP’s and candidates.”
“Gippslander are embracing safe, clean, renewable energy and the jobs and the economic benefits that come with it. Our hope is that when this election is over, we can get on with the shift to renewable power, which is already well underway.”