Published on Thursday, 25 July 2019 at 4:32:56 PM
Picture Caption: WA Premier Hon Mark McGowan MLA, Mayor Shane Van Styn, Member for the Agricultural Region Laurie Graham MLC, Minister for Environment Hon Stephen Dawson MLC and Member for the Agricultural Region Darren West MLC.
Development of tourism at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands will soon be a reality after it was declared a National Park.
Premier of Western Australia Hon Mark McGowan MLA and the Minister for Environment Hon Stephen Dawson MLC made the announcement in Geraldton on Thursday.
A total of $10 million will be invested over the next two years to establish visitor operations and infrastructure.
It will include the creation of a jetty, installation of signage and paths, and the expansion and upgrades to the airstrip.
City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the announcement was a game changer for the region’s tourism and economy.
“The Abrolhos Islands is one of the most untapped sources of tourism in the state and it is important we monitor what is happening over there,” he said.
“The introduction of public facilities will not only support and encourage tourism development, but also improve visitor safety and amenities.
“This $10 million investment is absolutely fantastic and I would also welcome additional investment into the Southern Group of Islands to enable tourism for local and visiting boaties as well as prospective fast ferry operators who wish to conduct day trips.
“Being classed a National Park creates big opportunities for us to preserve the area’s nature, culture and visitor appeal.
“This announcement is a real turning point for tourism in WA,” he added.
In addition to the $10 million, a further $3.8 million will be spread over the four-year budget period for the ongoing management of the Islands.
WA Premier Hon Mark McGowan MLA said it was a historic day for WA.
"Our vision is to provide a world-class tourism experience and create new jobs and economic opportunities in the Midwest, while protecting the unique environmental values of the islands,” he said.
"The creation of the national park will ensure the area's unique conservation values will remain protected and will open it up to new tourism opportunities. The Islands have a rich and, in many ways, infamous history.
"The improved visitor facilities will be a big drawcard for local, interstate and international visitors, with increased opportunities for nature tourism and recreation on the islands.
"The creation of the Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park was only possible thanks to the valuable input we received from the community and industry," he added.
In December 2018, Council showed their support for the development of tourism at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands and appealed to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DCBA).
The announcement coincides with the Houtman 400 Festival, which celebrates the 400 year anniversary of Dutch explorer Frederik de Houtman’s discovery of the Islands.
The Abrolhos Islands is the first National Park to be created under the State Government’s Plan for Our Parks initiative.
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