Marine park Community Reference Committee members appointed

• Committee to provide community input into future marine park for the south coast
• Part of the McGowan Government's significant Plan for Our Parks project
• Will protect the south coast's unique ecological and cultural heritage values
• Multiple use park will allow commercial, recreational and charter fishing in appropriate zones

The McGowan Government has appointed 12 members to the Community Reference Committee (CRC) for the proposed south coast marine park.

Chaired by former Government Minister, Hon Francis Logan, the CRC is comprised of individuals from a variety of sectors and backgrounds, with skills, knowledge, and experience relevant to the proposed south coast marine park.

Following a call for expressions of interest, a total of 28 nominations were received. Appointments were made based on relevant experience and expertise as well as geographical location to ensure all communities are well represented.

The CRC will meet regularly to provide advice throughout the proposed south coast marine park planning process.

The members of the CRC are:

• Kristy Alexander;
• Kim Bennett;
• Ron Chambers;
• Kim Colero;
  
• Manue Daniels;
• Wayne Daw;
• Helen McCarthy;
• Nathan McQuoid;
• Karen Milligan;
• Kristen Perks;
• Ken Richardson; and
• Rob Stewart.

Sector Advisory Groups are also being established to provide broader sectoral input to the CRC deliberations. The Sector Advisory Groups will provide valuable input to the CRC deliberations and stay informed about the planning process. Information on how to join a Sector Advisory Group can be found at https://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/south-coast-marine-park

Part of the McGowan Government's Plan for Our Parks, the south coast marine park will be multiple use, allowing for biodiversity conservation and cultural activities alongside a range of commercial and recreational activities including fishing, diving, boating and tourism in appropriate zones.

The area under consideration extends from Bremer Bay eastward to the Western Australian border, and offshore to the limit of State waters, with development of an indicative boundary to occur as part of the consultation process.

Comments attributed to Environment Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:

"Thank you to everyone who applied to be part of the Community Reference Committee for the south coast marine park.

"Applications received were of a very high quality and reflected the strong level of community interest in the proposal.

"I'll be looking to the CRC for their local knowledge, expertise and experience throughout the planning process.

"It is important we protect this beautiful marine environment into the future, while balancing the needs of industry, and the contributions of the CRC will be invaluable."

Minister's office - 6552 5900