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Endangered Species Threaten HMAS Penguin Sale
2 Sep
Summary
- 16 threatened species identified on the HMAS Penguin site.
- Mosman Council pushes for public ownership amid development fears.
- Heritage assessments may restrict redevelopment options.
The proposed sale of sections of HMAS Penguin, a defence site in Sydney, is encountering opposition due to environmental and heritage concerns. An independent ecological assessment identified 16 threatened species within the Middle Head precinct, raising questions about the site's development potential.
Among the identified species are endangered swift parrots and the Nielsen Park she-oak, a plant found only in Sydney. These findings have intensified Mosman Council's efforts to keep the land in public ownership, fearing private sale could lead to redevelopment.
Concerns extend to marine habitats, with the Sydney Institute of Marine Science highlighting risks to endangered seagrass meadows and White's seahorse from potential construction and runoff. Heritage assessments are also underway, potentially restricting development around scout halls and historic structures.
A Department of Finance spokesperson stated that environmental and heritage merits would be evaluated, with no final decisions made. Mosman Council is seeking support to retain the land for public benefit, potentially via transfer to the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust.
