Dear Editor,

In a few short weeks, we expect the Walker Corporation of NSW to submit a formal development proposal to our State government.

What will this proposal consist of?  And will the Lennon government share its contents with the people of Tasmania, prior to deciding whether or not it will be allowed to proceed into the state’s planning system?

Will Walker stick to its original plan for an 800 home canal estate, plus 200 berth marina, in Ralphs Bay at Lauderdale? Or was this just an ambit claim, Stage 1 in the Walker game plan for Tasmania? Whatever Lang Walker really wants from Tasmania, it is unlikely the community will be fooled into thinking his proposal is primarily intended to benefit anyone other than the Corporation’s two shareholders – Lang himself (Australia’s 18th richest man), and his wife.

Of course, there is always the possibility that the Walker Corporation will have correctly assessed the mood of the Tasmanian people; taken note of the strength and coolness of the wind screaming across Ralphs Bay, and noted, too, the recent weakening of the real estate market across Australia.  Taking all these factors into account, Lang Walker may be getting ready to walk away – and we wish him a sincere Bon Voyage back to Sydney.

Yours faithfully,

Jane MacDonald.