Woods Point protest rally swamps town

Woods Point probably hasn't seen as many people since its gold mining heyday in the 19th century when recreational bush users made another statement in protest against moves to create additional national parks and "lock up" state forests.
A rally last weekend drew more than 1000 people - only a little over 30 people permanently live in the Woods Point area - to reaffirm its message "No More Parks" to the state government.
The town north of Walhalla these days is a hub for recreational trail bike riders, four wheel driving, bush walkers, prospecting, history buffs and many others.
Its hotel was re-opened this year by new owners and was crowded along the road at front when those at the rally formed themselves into a sign spelling out their message.
The bush users will continue their campaign with further events including another rally at King Lake on Saturday and a community forum at Pakenham on Sunday, October 6.
Drouin residents and members of Community Advocacy Eastern Region Craig Sharman and Leonie Blackwell also have been interviewing businesses in small regional communities in Gippsland about the impacts locking up the forests would have on them and their communities.
"The consistent message we hear is the balance is right. We don't need more national parks. Keep the national parks we have but don't convert our forests to national parks. The majority of bush users do the right thing and are important for the wellbeing of the bush," Leonie said.