Member for The Entrance, David Mehan, has applauded the decision by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to reverse its proposal to erect a boundary fence off Wyrrabalong National Park, along Reserve Dve, Bateau Bay.
The fencing proposal had been made by NPWS in good faith to address concerns about informal tracks and vegetation damage, he said.
In September, the Chronicle reported that hundreds of Bateau Bay residents petitioned NPWS to protest against the fence, saying it would limit access to the popular 1.6km Coast Track, renowned for its spectacular views and whale watching lookouts between Bateau Bay Beach and Crackneck Point Lookout.
Instead, they said, money spent on building a 500m fence would be better used on fixing the badly degraded walking track and repairing the poor state of this pocket of national park.
The residents said that there had been no community consultation or necessary information provided about NPWS plans.
“After meeting residents and receiving a petition with 400 signatures about the matter, I made representations to the Minister for Environment seeking that the fencing proposal be overturned,” Mehan said.
He noted the proposal to erect the fence did not reflect the best way to protect Wyrrabalong National Park, but was the only option available to NPWS in the absence of appropriate funding for the coastal track and protective works in the location.
“I’m glad that NPWS has seen sense as to the detriment that this proposed fencing would have caused the residents and visitors to the park,” Mehan said.
“I’m also glad I was able to assist in achieving this result.
“NPWS now needs to focus its sights on upgrades to the Wyrrabalong National Park which will not only protect the park but also improve its amenity.
“It’s important that consultation occur with the local community with any work that NPWS intends to undertake as this will ensure that all parties are satisfied with the outcome and that a benefit is achieved for all.
“I will continue to work with the community to both protect the park and improve access to this local treasure,” Mehan said.
Sue Murray