New management plan to protect Yanchep parks

• 10-year plan covers natural, cultural and recreational values

• About 275,000 visits a year to Yanchep National Park

Environment Minister Bill Marmion today released the State Government's new management plan for Yanchep and Neerabup national parks and Neerabup Nature Reserve following extensive public consultation.

"Through the management plan, visitors will gain enjoyment from the natural, cultural and social environment of Yanchep National Park and provided with a range of nature-based recreation, education and interpretation activities," Mr Marmion said.

"It is known as Perth's natural and cultural meeting place and among the most popular parks in the State, attracting about 275,000 visits a year.

"The park has a range of natural values, including caves and scientific and cultural importance.  It also has freshwater wetland systems that are habitat for many native plants and animals, including resident and migratory waterbirds.

"It is one of the biggest, relatively undisturbed natural areas on the Swan Coastal Plain that provides an important corridor for wildlife.  It is also a breeding and feeding ground for the threatened Carnaby's cockatoo.

"Yanchep also contains Aboriginal heritage sites of mythological ceremonial significance and forms part of a migratory route historically used by Aboriginal people."

Yanchep National Park offers visitor experiences which include Aboriginal tours, bushwalking, cave tours and the opportunity to see koalas.

The plan was prepared by the Department of Environment and Conservation on behalf of the Conservation Commission of Western Australia.  Copies are available at http://www.dec.wa.gov.au

      Fact File

• Parks and reserve cover almost 4,000ha

• Further 2,700ha identified as possible additions to the parks

• Explore Yanchep at http://www.everytrail.com/guide/yanchep-national-park

Minister's office - 6552 6800