The community are invited to have their say on options to grow local tourism and agriculture through the Pickering Brook and Surrounds Sustainability and Tourism Strategy (the Strategy) released by the McGowan Government today.
The report, Facilitating Sustainable Economic Opportunities, recognises the area's tourism and agriculture industries as important contributors to State and local economies with the ability to deliver employment and business opportunities for the community.
It was compiled by an independent working group, chaired by Kalamunda MLA Matthew Hughes, that was established to investigate planning and economic development opportunities for the Perth Hills.
The Working Group has made 24 planning recommendations and related actions for the Pickering Brook and surrounding area, which are focused on facilitating the sustainable growth of the tourist and agriculture economies.
These include implementing measures to enhance the areas' agritourism, encouraging tourism opportunities that are suitably located to manage bushfire risk, and exploring the potential to better recognise the Perth Hills as a tourism destination in its own right.
The report has considered community feedback, tourism analysis, soil and land capability assessment, and bushfire risk assessment.
To have your say on the strategy, visit https://consultation.dplh.wa.gov.au/land-use-planning/pickering-brook. Consultation closes on Friday April 29, 2022.
As stated by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Growing up in Roleystone, I know first-hand how beautiful and unique the Perth Hills region is to our State.
"It is important that as we plan a sustainable future for the Pickering Brook and surrounds, we balance the traditional agricultural uses with the growing tourism opportunities.
"Effective planning today means that we can ensure we support the growth of the area, with development that respects and maintains its unique character for future generations to enjoy.
"Community involvement has been key to developing this strategy, and I encourage community members to review the recommendations and the draft strategy, and provide their thoughts about shaping the area."
As stated by Tourism Minister Roger Cook:
"The Perth Hills has so much to offer visitors, from stunning scenery and bushland to agritourism experiences, and a diverse selection of gourmet food and beverages available to taste and buy from where it's made.
"There are opportunities to build on this diverse tourism offering and grow the area's experiences for visitors, and this consultation gives locals a chance to share their thoughts and be a part of this exciting planning for the future."
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"The report provides us with a great opportunity to identify and plan for future agriculture opportunities in the Perth Hills, and to support growers to adapt to WA's drying climate and build sustainable horticulture businesses.
"Part 2 of the strategy includes an extensive analysis of the soil and land capability, identifying more than 3,000 hectares of high-quality agriculture land suitable for horticulture production.
"I encourage all local growers to review the strategy and provide feedback on potential opportunities to grow and diversify our horticultural industry in the Pickering Brook area."
As stated by Kalamunda MLA Matthew Hughes:
"This draft Part 2 of the strategy is the result of extensive investigation and consultation about how the State and local governments can prioritise planning opportunities that facilitates tourism growth and secures the agricultural future of the Perth Hills.
"The draft Part 2 responds to the decline in the productive agricultural activity we have seen in the Pickering Brook and surrounding areas, particularly orcharding by traditional family businesses over the last 40 years.
"This change contributes to declining community populations and economic activities, which can also impact on the social and cultural fabric of these places without proactive planning.
"I encourage everyone to get involved and review this important strategy and provide their feedback."
