Australian actor Simon Baker has thrown his celebrity weight behind a significant environmental campaign, joining forces with South Australia's Liberal opposition party to accelerate efforts for World Heritage recognition of the Great Australian Bight.
Parliamentary Steps Demonstration
The Mentalist star, 56, appeared on the steps of South Australia's Parliament House on Tuesday, standing alongside members of the Great Australian Bight Alliance to advocate for the long-delayed World Heritage designation. The veteran performer, who has increasingly become a vocal environmental advocate, revealed he had been profoundly affected by both the community's ongoing fight for the Bight and the recent devastation caused by a toxic algal bloom.
The Great Australian Bight spans both South Australia and Western Australia, forming a massive, dramatic curve of coastline along Australia's southern edge renowned for its towering cliffs and rich marine biodiversity.
Cross-Party Support Emerges
Speaking to The Advertiser, Baker expressed optimism about the political developments. 'I watched with great enthusiasm the fight for the Bight, and then in the last 12 months I've watched the tragedy unfold of the algal bloom and the impacts that's had on the communities,' he stated. 'I think it's beautiful if we turn our energy towards preservation and preserving something sacred.'
Baker described it as 'promising' to see politicians on both sides finally working together, particularly noting the support from Opposition Leader Vincent Tarzia. 'To be here and to see the leader of the opposition speak out in support of World Heritage listing. It's a very promising thing,' he added.
Adelaide Visit and Private Meetings
The actor is currently in Adelaide for a special screening of Ocean, the new documentary narrated by Sir David Attenborough. During his visit, Baker met privately with Premier Peter Malinauskas and members of the Great Australian Bight Alliance to discuss the conservation push.
Liberal Opposition Leader Vincent Tarzia and Member for Flinders Sam Telfer both attended Tuesday's event to support the campaign to secure the Bight's World Heritage listing, demonstrating rare cross-party cooperation on environmental issues.
Across his distinguished career, Baker has starred in numerous films including The Devil Wears Prada, Breath, and L.A. Confidential, while also leading popular television series The Mentalist as Patrick Jane and The Guardian as Nicholas Fallin.
