Public comment is being sought on the draft joint management plan for the proposed conservation and recreation reserves along the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Coast.
The Nyinggulu (Ningaloo) coastal reserves draft joint management plan 2019 covers 70,400 hectares of coast, including the terrestrial portion of Ningaloo Marine Park and adjacent unallocated Crown land from Red Bluff to Winderabandi.
The creation of the proposed reserves will enable conservation of the significant natural and cultural values along the coast, and importantly provide ongoing access and recreational opportunities for all Western Australians and other visitors.
The area will be jointly managed by the Gnulli native title claimants and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, with an Indigenous Land Use Agreement expected to be finalised this year.
The draft management plan is available at https://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au and open for comment until May 14, 2019.
As stated by Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
“This area attracts many thousands of visitors each year who seek to camp against a backdrop of the world famous Ningaloo Marine Park. The plan proposes to maintain affordable, remote and self-sufficient camping and caravanning experiences.
“Managing the area in partnership with traditional owners will have many benefits, not only for sharing knowledge and the enhanced protection and management of the Ningaloo Coast but also in terms of job creation, connection to country and customary activities.
“I encourage Western Australians to provide comment on the plan, which will help guide the management of the beautiful conservation and recreation reserves on the Ningaloo Coast for the years ahead.”
