HERITAGE ACT - TOODYAY
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11847065/Toodyay-WA-landowner-upgrades-creek-crossing-risks-jail-breaching-Cultural-Heritage-Act.html
Tony Maddox poured concrete to improve the safety of an existing hazardous farm culvert crossing. He was not informed that amendments to the Aboriginal Heritage Laws applied to the Avon River Tributary running through his property and there were inaccuracies in the departments maps of the tributaries. The penalty for this unknown breach is up to 9 months jail and a $20,000 Fine.
In Western Australia, even simple works — like repairing an existing culvert crossing— may require Aboriginal heritage approval, including on freehold land. These requirements stem from laws connected to spiritual and cultural beliefs, such as those involving the Rainbow Serpent.
Tony Maddox has already spent around $100,000 defending himself in court. The process for notifying property owners of the committee’s decision regarding the Avon River tributaries was inadequate, and the public notices issued by the department did not provide a clear way for landowners to determine whether they were affected, but he was still found guilty. An appeal is now underway — but he can’t do it alone.
We’re asking for your support to help ensure Tony has access to the strongest possible legal representation. This case isn’t just about one farmer — it sets a critical precedent for how these laws may affect all farmers and landowners in the future.
Join us in this fight — before crossing a creek becomes a criminal act for farmers. We urgently need your support — please help today.
What’s the issue?
We need your help with the appeal.
Legal costs are rapidly increasing, and we can’t fight this battle alone.
If you believe in:
Fair and practical land use
The rights of farmers and landowners
Common-sense regulation
Then please stand with us — your support can make all the difference.
Tony Maddox – 0408 926 497
Bob Iffla – 0429 953 151
Go fund me –
Tony Maddox – Westpac
BSB: 036-079 ACC: 366 041
Organizer and beneficiary
Tony Maddox
Beneficiary