Calling all Western Australians! It’s time to have your say on WA’s proposed South Coast Marine Park.

 

The WA Government has just released its management plans for the proposed South Coast Marine Park – and it’s seeking public feedback.

The new marine park will provide important protections to local marine species – including one not found anywhere else in the world! Meanwhile, the majority of the park will remain open for commercial and recreational fishing.

Environment Minister, Reece Whitby said, ‘Our vision is to create a marine park rivalling Ningaloo and the Great Barrier Reef. It will be the first ocean marine park along WA’s south coast, filling a key gap in the state’s marine reserve system’.

‘Community feedback will be critical to ensuring we achieve our vision of a world-class marine park that can be supported by the Western Australian community,’ he added.

 

South Coast Marine Park WA - proposal for public feedback - Credit DBCA

Each highlighted area in the map above has a corresponding management plan | Image thanks to Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, WA

What is the South Coast Marine Park?

The proposed marine park will stretch along WA’s South Coast from Bremer Bay, past Esperance, and onto Eucla on the state’s eastern border.  There are four separate management plans for each Native Title area – to allow for joint management arrangements with the four Traditional Owner groups.

Recreational beach access will remain unchanged by the proposed plans and there’ll be opportunities for nature-based tourism. Around 75% of the proposed marine park will remain open for commercial and recreational fishing.

The marine park is home to the Ruby seadragon – a unique species not found anywhere else in the world – as well as important fisheries, Southern Right whale nurseries, kelp forests, reefs, and vulnerable seal and sea lion colonies.

How can I have my say?

Consultation on the project began in 2021 with Traditional Owners, local community groups, and other stakeholders. Now the opportunity lies with the wider WA community to give their feedback on the proposed management plans for the marine park.

The four-month public comment period is open until the 16th of June 2024.

 

Feature photo by Tourism Western Australia

 

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