The McGowan Government is committed to the expansion of Wellington National Park, with the public comment period now open on the expansion proposal.
The proposed expansion along the southern border to the Preston River will provide a focus for tourism along major access routes and enhance opportunities for recreation, including mountain biking, bushwalking, camping, cultural education and adventure activities.
It will also provide greater protection for significant areas of mature jarrah and marri forest, and high-quality wildlife habitat within the proposed expansion area.
These additions will increase the overall area of the national park to almost 25,000 hectares, and improve connectivity to adjacent conservation reserves, while limiting the impact on timber harvesting and firewood collection.
The proposed areas also include registered Aboriginal heritage places and sites of other Australian cultural heritage.
To comment on the proposal, visit http://www.pws.dbca.wa.gov.au
As stated by Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The McGowan Government is committed to expanding the network of national parks and reserves in Western Australia to protect conservation values and enable areas to be enjoyed now and for generations to come.
"Wellington National Park continues to grow as a popular camping and day visit destination due to its proximity to Perth; outstanding scenic, cultural and biodiversity values; and the multitude of recreational activities it offers.
"During the past 10 years visitation to the park has increased substantially, reaching more than 315,000 visits in the 2017-18 financial year."
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray:
"This is a significant step in progressing the Government's election commitment to expand Wellington National Park.
"The proposed expansion will provide the basis to improve and expand tourism and recreation opportunities within our incredibly unique national park.
"I am proud to say that we are working to ensure a brighter future for the people of Collie-Preston.
"I ask that anybody with an interest in this area to come forward and have their voice heard during the public comment period."
