Minister admits he knew of tensions in lead-up to Croppa Creek shooting

Aug. 1, 2014, 4 a.m.

The state government has admitted it was aware there was tension surrounding illegal land clearing

THEY KNEW: Environment Minister Rob Stokes, pictured centre with department chief Terry Bailey, right, and local MP Kevin Anderson, left, said they were aware of the issues in the Croppa Creek area which has now seen all operations on the ground suspended after Tuesdays alleged murder. Photo: Gareth Gardner 310714GGA06

THE state government has admitted it was aware there was tension surrounding illegal land clearing in the Croppa Creek area before Tuesdays alleged shooting murder.

NSW Environment Minister Rob Stokes and Office of Environment and Heritage chief executive Terry Bailey flew into Tamworth yesterday morning to meet with grief-stricken family members and work colleagues of local compliance officer Glen Turner. The 51-year-old husband and father-of-two was on a reserve on Talga Ln, north of Moree, on Tuesday night when he was set upon and allegedly gunned down by local farmer Ian Robert Turnbull.

Mr Turner was allegedly shot in the back by the 79-year-old farmer, who is behind bars on one count of murder.

Local ecologist Phil Spark said he, along with other residents, had received no reply from the minister after highlighting the problems gripping the Croppa Creek area.

I raised it with the minister last month. We sent a letter to inform him of the whole history, and we told him of the issues, what was going on, he told The Leader.

Wed written to Robyn Parker stacks of times to no avail.

Mr Stokes wouldnt be drawn on the letter or any of the information he had received, and said he

The rest is here:
Minister admits he knew of tensions in lead-up to Croppa Creek shooting