A new forest shelter has opened at the National Arboretum as a place of reflection to remember the impact of ‘Mr Fluffy’ loose fill asbestos insultation in the ACT.
Minister for Sustainable Building and Construction Rebecca Vassarotti said the place of reflection in the Black Tupelo Forest provides an opportunity for the community to reflect upon the impact of loose fill asbestos on the lives of hundreds of Canberrans.
“‘The discovery of the health impacts of Mr Fluffy’ loose fill asbestos insultation and the need to knock down over a thousand homes as a result, deeply impacted the lives of thousands of Canberrans,” Minister Vassarotti said.
“Individuals and families continue to live with its impact – this place of reflection is an important part of the healing process for the community.
“ACT residents and visitors to Canberra will be able to visit the pavilion and reflect on the impact of Mr Fluffy on their lives, and the community.
“A recommendation from ‘Mr Fluffy’ Community and Expert Reference Group, establishing a place of reflection will provide a focal point for those impacted, while educating the community on the historic use of loose fill asbestos in the ACT.
“The location at Black Tupelo Forest was selected following feedback from the Canberra community that we needed to identify a space to come together to share experiences, to connect and to reflect.
“The opening of the place of reflection coincides with National Asbestos Awareness Week and provides an opportunity to highlight the progress that has occurred since the ban of Asbestos in Australia.
“I encourage everyone to visit the shelter and reflect on this chapter in Canberra’s history while looking over our city.
Information on the key insights heard from the community can be found on the YourSay Conversations website in the Listening Report.
