Foster’s and Sartor in Land and Environment Court

Drake-Brockman told the SSH that he will argue five points in an attempt to overturn Sartor’s approval of the proposed development of the Carlton and United Breweries site in Chippendale.

He said a win would set a positive precedent for urban culture. “It would mean a new law would be created which requires future development to take account of climate change,” Drake-Brockman said.

“These people have got to be held accountable for their actions which will impact future generations.”

The state Legal Aid Commission granted Drake-Brockman $10,000 legal aid in May. However, he needs $40,000 to cover all costs. City of Sydney Deputy Lord Mayor Greens Cr Chris Harris told the SSH that $3,000 had been received or pledged as of 20 June.

“This is public interest litigation on behalf of the residents of Chippendale,” Cr Harris said. “I’ve been helping Matthew since day one with Michael Mobbs.” Mobbs is a Chippendale based sustainability consultant.

On 25 June, Cr Harris asked all City of Sydney councillors to vote in favour of his motion that council donate $20,000 towards Drake-Brockman’s legal case. The motion was successful.

Cr Harris has also worked with members of the local community to launch a public fundraising appeal. “We’re supporting him every inch of the way,” he said.

The appeal includes a fundraiser to be held on 11 July at 6.30pm in the Guthrie Theatre, in the Peter Johnson building, University of Technology, Sydney at 702 Harris St, Ultimo.

In addition to Drake-Brockman and Cr Harris, speakers include Murray Hogarth, an award winning journalist and author of The 3rd Degree – Frontline in Australia’s Climate War, Cate Faehrmann, Executive Director of the NSW Nature Conservation Council and more to be confirmed.

Tickets cost $30. Cr Harris would like people to confirm their attendance to him by phone 0407 469 384 or email charris@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au .

“If people want to directly contribute to the future of sustainable living in the city, this is the best way they can do it,” Drake-Brockman said.

Donations can be made in other ways:

Direct deposits can be made into a trust account: BSB 082-57, account number 87 479 5692, name Environmental Defender’s Office Statutory Trust Account. Cash, cheques (payable to “Environmental Defenders Office – CUB Litigation” or loan donations (minimum $200) can also be posted to EDO , Level 1, 89 York St, Sydney NSW 2000. MasterCard and Visa credit card donations are also accepted

Source: South Sydney Herald July 2007 http://www.southsydneyherald.com.au/