The WA Government has announced it will establish a new marine park spanning the entire Exmouth Gulf to conserve and protect the globally significant marine habitat for generations to come.
The Gulf is an important habitat for nursing humpback whales and their calves, one of the world’s largest populations of dugongs, Australian humpback dolphins and four species of marine turtles.
To ensure the long-term health of the Gulf’s ecosystems, the Government proposes that at least 30% of the marine park be designated as no-catch sanctuary zones, which will provide the highest level of protection to ecologically sensitive areas.
“Exmouth Gulf is one of the most extraordinary and unique marine ecosystems on the planet and it deserves the highest level of protection,” said Premier, Roger Cook.
“A carefully zoned and properly managed marine park will enable us to achieve strong environmental, social and economic outcomes for the long-term benefit of Exmouth locals and the whole of Western Australia.
“By working in genuine partnership with Traditional Owners, we will protect its cultural and environmental value while ensuring the community and industry can continue to enjoy this special place.”
The proposed park will be jointly vested between the Conservation and Parks Commission and the Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Aboriginal Corporation (NTGAC) and jointly managed by NTGAC and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA).
“The zoning plan will strike the right balance – protecting critical habitats and cultural sites while allowing sustainable fishing, tourism and economic activity to continue,” said Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn.
“I would like to thank the Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Aboriginal Corporation and all the Exmouth Gulf Taskforce members, particularly its recent Chair David McFerran, for their insights and work to deliver the Final Report.”
In planning the marine park, the Government will adopt a zoning scheme that provides strong environmental protection while supporting the Gulf’s ongoing social and economic use. The zoning framework will:
- Honour existing commitments to high protection over the eastern and southern Gulf;
- Ensure existing managed commercial fishing continues;
- Support sustainable recreational and tourism use, including recreational fishing, outside of the designated sanctuary zones; and
- Allow for the sustainable economic development of the area.
The Government says it will now work closely with NTGAC, local communities, and industry to plan and implement the marine park in a way that delivers strong environmental protection while maintaining social and economic benefits.
“We will be working hard to deliver a balanced outcome which continues to support sustainable fishing, and I encourage industry and community to take the opportunity to put their views forward as part of the consultation process,” said Fisheries Minister, Jackie Jarvis.
