Endorsement of Meelup park management plan

11/5/93

Lands Minister George Cash has endorsed the Meelup Regional Park management plan, developed by the Shire of Busselton.

Mr Cash this week commended the shire on the quality of the plan for the 540 ha 'A' class reserve, 280 kilometres south of Perth, along the coastline from Dunsborough to Bunker Bay.

"Busselton Shire is to be congratulated on the comprehensive nature of the management plan, which provides for the ongoing protection and preservation of this significant area," Mr Cash said.

"Due to the importance of the region in terms of conservation and recreation, input to the management plan was provided by Conservation and Land Management, the Environmental Protection Authority, the Department of Planning and Urban Development and the Department of Land Administration.

"Vasse MLA Barry Blaikie also provided a good deal of input into the plan and is to be commended on his efforts in realising its development."

Mr Cash said a primary objective of the plan was the conservation of the diverse flora and fauna in the reserve.

"Of particular importance is the protection of existing or potential habitats of endangered plant and animal species.  There are at least six rare and three vulnerable plant species within the reserve, and the wetlands support a number of rare and unusual invertebrate animal species," he said.

The plan also includes details and guidelines on:

·         rehabilitation of degraded areas;

·         public recreation activities in appropriate areas;

·         fire management of the reserve; and

·         control of ferral animals.

Mr Cash has asked the Shire of Busselton to proceed with the formation of the Meelup Regional Park advisory board.

"The board will be responsible for the implementation of the proposals outlined in the plan, which I am sure will result in the further enhancement of the park's attractiveness," the Minister said.

"Meelup Regional Park is to Dunsborough residents what Kings Park is to Perth residents.  This plan will provide a blueprint to ensure that Meelup's many special qualities are preserved and enhanced for future generations of locals and also tourists visiting the South-West."

Media contact: Narelle Cant 222 9595