The Government, Opposition and Family First joined forces today to oppose a motion by Senator Christine Milne noting the fire burning in the magnificent Tarkine wilderness, apparently related to a car accident on the 'Road to Nowhere', and calling for the road to be closed.

Senator Milne said "The fire still ravaging the magnificent Tarkine wilderness is a tragedy that was waiting to happen ever since the 'Road to Nowhere' was opened.

"None of the claims about the supposed benefits of the road have ever come to pass, and it remains a dangerous, ill-maintained black hole for government funds, diverting much-needed black-spot funding for the Bass Highway.

"In 1994, as leader of the Tasmanian Greens, I was arrested with many others, including the courageous 'Tarkine Tigers', opposing the construction of the road, warning that it would pose an unacceptable threat to this unique and irreplaceable rainforest.

"Now that what we warned of has tragically come to pass, the road should be closed and converted to a cycle and walking track, and the Tarkine's world heritage nomination should be advanced to ensure its permanent protection.

"The failure of the Government, Opposition and Family First to support this motion, which only the Greens and Democrats voted for, puts the lie to all their fine words about protecting the Tarkine."

The motion reads:

(a) That the Senate notes:
1. The bush fire that is burning in the magnificent Tarkine wilderness area in north west Tasmania and which has already burnt 1800 hectares;
2. The fire was started in conjunction with a car accident on the "Road to Nowhere" known as the Western Explorer Road; and,
3. The high risk of fire from opening the inaccessible area to vehicle access was identified by conservationists as a major threat and reason for objection when the road was proposed and approved by the Tasmanian Liberal government in 1994.
b) Calls on the Government
1. To urge the Tasmanian government to close the road and convert it to a world class cycling and walking track; and,
2. To advance the world heritage nomination of the area to secure its permanent protection.