From the Sunday Mail

Shots fired near activists' camp
By Robyn Grace
29sep05
GUNSHOTS had been fired near a camp of anti-logging protesters in southern Tasmania, the activists said today.

The group of 10 men and women believe the shots were fired last night to intimidate them after they set up a temporary village in the World Heritage-nominated Weld Valley.

The only access to the camp is via a forest road, which Forestry Tasmania locks between 5pm and 7am (AEST).

The activists say they saw spotlights shining from several vehicles between 11pm and midnight (AEST) before they heard "a number of gunshots".

"They were extremely fearful. They were extremely intimidated by it," group spokeswoman Jenny Weber said.

Ms Weber said the group had either been subject to intimidation tactics or Forestry Tasmania should have informed them of dangerous practices occurring during the night.

"Only people involved in the logging industry have the keys (to the forest road gate)," she said.

"Therefore, how did these people get in the forest to scare the peaceful protesters with guns and spotlights?"

Activists returned to the Weld Valley this week after a six-month hiatus, which allowed Forestry Tasmania to carry out regeneration burns.

The group is trying to halt construction of a road in the area and is also calling for the protection of 2000ha of forest bordering the World Heritage area.

Ms Weber said the group was "totally committed to staying there" for months to come, despite last night's scare.

"They've calmed down. They're confident among themselves," she said.

Ms Weber said the group had filed official complaints with Tasmania Police and Forestry Tasmania.

Comment is being sought from both organisations.