A record number of parties have registered ahead of this year’s election. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be digging into the newest entrants to political thunderdome. Next up is the Outdoor Recreation Party.
Their campaign is simple; Stop The Greens.
They promote the benefits of outdoor recreation with their primary focus to prevent political parties limiting public land access.
The Outdoor Recreation Party aims to protect the rights of those who wish to enjoy the Australian bush, originally formed out of the grass-roots four-wheel-driving community.
“4WD and other outdoor enthusiasts were frustrated by the fact that the government was more focused on appeasing baseless ‘extreme-green’ attitudes than adopting a sensible plan for public access to public land.”
Believing public land should be accessible to all Australian’s for recreational purposes rather than ‘locked up and neglected’, The ORP are seeking to limit the amount of interference in outdoor leisure activities.
“We represent the interests of those who seek to engage in outdoor recreational pursuits such as four-wheel-driving, kayaking, skiing, fishing and camping.
“In recent times, thanks to ever-tighter restrictions, lockouts and compliance costs it has become harder and harder for average Australians to access large parts of the countryside.”
Lots of new members joining ORP at Sydney 4WD Show. http://t.co/g15RB8Gk. Theme “Stop The Greens” really hitting home. Tnks helpers #auspol
— Outdoor Rec Party (@outdoorrecparty) October 13, 2012
Policies
Four wheel driving
Campaigning for no discrimination against 4WD vehicles, the ORP policy advocates for no bull-bar restrictions and free access to public land.
Shooting and hunting
The ORP says yes to hunt feral animals in National Parks and no to the current gun laws, looking at repealing those they feel are unjust. They also advocate for removing the legislation requiring a licence to hunt deer on private property.
Car Enthusiasts
With plans to increase speed limits, repeal hoon laws and end alleged harassment of young drivers, the ORP would also like to see traffic laws focusing on the safety of others, not raising revenue.
Environment
The ORP supports policies to repeal bans on land clearing and keeping native animals as pets. They are also advocating for a renewable forestry industry.
Further policies regarding National Parks, motorcyclists fishing, hikers, skiers and law and order can be found here.
Despite this being their first federal election, The ORP have more than 1100 members with its supporters an eclectic mix of active Australian voters from paintballers to horse riders.
With the most recognised face of four-wheel driving leading the campaign the ORP believe they are in with an ‘extremely viable election chance’, boasting well known-candidates John Rooth and 4WD TV host Simon Christie
Formally aligned with the Liberal Democratic Party The ORP support efforts to reduce the size of government through less regulation and lower taxes.
“We view restrictions on outdoor activities as part of a larger problem of excessive regulation, bureaucracy and government intrusion.”
The Outdoor Recreation Party (Stop the Greens) is running senate candidates in all states, visit their website or Facebook.
Bridget Rollason is a third-year Bachelor of Journalism student and upstart’s Fashion and Lifestyle editor. You can follow her on Twitter: @Didgeriedoo.
