You’d think protecting a pristine stretch of coastline like Geographe Bay would be a no-brainer. But somehow, common sense seems to have gone out the window, along with transparency, when it comes to a controversial offshore wind project that’s causing real concern across the South West.

One Nation Senator Tyron Whitten recently tried to get some straight answers by filing a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. He wanted to know how and why the Department of Environment decided that the marine survey mapping was 'not a controlled action' for the proposed wind facility, surveying using sound levels that deafen whales, which rely on their hearing to survive. But here’s the kicker: the FOI request was denied. And not just by anyone,  it was shut down by the same person who made the original decision to greenlight the project.

Let that sink in for a second. The public official who gave the go-ahead is also the one saying, “Nope, you don’t get to see the paperwork.” That’s not just suspicious, it’s outrageous. Senator Whitten didn’t mince words, calling it a “disgrace” and accusing the government of hiding behind bureaucracy instead of owning up to its decisions.

And honestly, he’s not alone. Locals, environmental advocates, fishers, and tourism operators have all raised the alarm. Geographe Bay isn’t just a postcard-perfect slice of nature, it’s a hub for wildlife, jobs, and community life. The idea of putting industrial-scale wind farms offshore has plenty of people worried, and they deserve clear, honest answers.

But instead of engaging with the public, the concerns of the public have been blatantly ignored in the rush to construct wind turbines in our oceans and on prime agricultural land. Is this really how decisions that could affect generations are being made without scrutiny?

Forcing projects through without community support, without transparency, and without proper environmental safeguards in an unregulated industry? That’s not progress. It’s political theatre.

Senator Whitten’s promise that One Nation will fight for local voices is one thing. But the real question is: will anyone in Canberra actually listen?

Geographe Bay deserves better. And so do the people trying to protect it.