An untouched paradise off Western Australia's coast will be better protected under new 10-year management plans.
The Houtman Abrolhos is an archipelago of 210 islands surrounded by spectacular coral reef about 60 kilometres west of Geraldton.
The national park was created in 2019 and is managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). The management plan covers 184 unoccupied islands and part of five occupied islands.
The remaining occupied islands are a Class A reserve, managed by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) for conservation, tourism and fishing. The surrounding crystal blue waters lie within a Fish Habitat Protection Area.
The three management plans have been developed with the community and stakeholders to safeguard the natural habitat, cultural heritage, fishing, recreation, as well as support sustainable tourism.
To view the plans, visit www.dbca.wa.gov.au/managementplans or www.fish.wa.gov.au/About-Us/Publications/Pages/default.aspx
Picture caption: Vessels secured on public moorings at Morley Island in the Houtman Abrolhos.
