Farmer fined $60,000 for destroying native vegetation

During the court proceedings, the 73-year-old farmer admitted to clearing saltbush and shrubby glasswort on his property in Port Wakefield, but claimed he was carrying out the work for environmental purposes. As Senior Judge Durrant noted, the clearance lacked official authorization, as the landowner had not previously applied for consent from the Native Vegetation Council.

According to the judge, the defendant had experience with such procedures and had previously participated in the approval process with the Council on neighboring land, and therefore was well aware of the need to obtain permits. The prosecution pointed to the commercial aspect of the offense, whereas the defense insisted on environmental improvement.

The court took into account the report of an accredited consultant, which recorded the active recovery of the soil cover, significant growth of native species, and good prospects for the further restoration of the ecosystem. The Senior Judge confirmed that he took into account the defendant's lifelong experience in agriculture and livestock farming, his participation in restoration activities, and his sincere belief that his actions would improve the condition of the land.

As a result, the court convicted the 73-year-old landowner and ordered him to pay a fine of $60,000.