A proposed amendment to the Murujuga National Park Management Plan, aimed at improving access to one of Western Australia’s most culturally significant areas, is now open for public comment.
The proposed amendment will allow for the construction of a new access road to Conzinc Bay, in the northern part of Murujuga National Park, where visitor facilities will be built.
Currently, access is only available by four-wheel drive over very rough terrain, which restricts visits to the area.
The amendment includes measures to manage and mitigate any potential environmental and cultural risks associated with the construction of the road and visitor infrastructure, including national and potential World Heritage values.
Prepared by the Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation (MAC) and Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) as joint managers of the national park, the proposed plan amendment will support the MAC’s aspirations for a tourism precinct at Conzinc Bay.
The State Government has pledged $15 million towards the construction of the access road and visitor facilities to support tourism and boost the management of islands on the Dampier Archipelago.
Two sites in the northern part of the park are proposed for visitor infrastructure for day-use and recreation activities, including fishing and swimming.
A two-month period of public comment will allow interested Western Australians to have their say.
As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:
“Murujuga is home to the world’s largest concentration of rock art. Our aim is to collaborate with the traditional custodians who are our joint management partners, to protect and promote the cultural and natural values of the park, in particular its National Heritage and potential World Heritage values.
“The McGowan Government is committed to promoting a greater understanding of the cultural significance of the Murujuga National Park and supporting the MAC’s aspirations to develop a self-sustaining tourism precinct in the area.
“The construction of an access road will not only ensure the creation of local jobs but will also provide a tourism boost to the wider region, while showcasing the area’s significant cultural heritage.
“Responsible visitation and tourism are a major focus of management for Murujuga. In partnership with MAC, DBCA is developing a visitor services plan to identify culturally and environmentally appropriate recreation and tourism options.”
As stated by Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation CEO Peter Jeffries:
“MAC and DBCA have worked collaboratively to prepare the proposed amendment to the Murujuga National Park Management Plan which will allow for the construction of an access road and facilities that will share and preserve our rich and ancient heritage.
“Our proposed tourism precinct, which includes a Living Knowledge Centre, will allow us as traditional custodians of Murujuga to build a shared sense of pride in the ancient history of Australia and the responsibility we all have to care for country.
“This adds to the recently opened Ngajarli Art Viewing Trail, a major visitor site where people can learn about Murujuga’s distinct rock art and its cultural significance. The trail was recently recognised by the State’s Heritage Awards for its outstanding contribution to heritage conservation and interpretation.
“It is hoped that visitors to Murujuga will leave with a greater understanding of Aboriginal culture and the significance of this location to the global community.”
