Feasibility studies to be undertaken on tourist facilities in Karijini National Park

2/7/97

Environment Minister Cheryl Edwardes today announced that Auster Developments Pty Ltd had been selected as the proponent to undertake feasibility studies to provide a range of tourist accommodation facilities in Karijini National Park subject to it satisfying itself that the provision of accommodation facilities was economically viable.

Mrs Edwardes said this was another step forward in meeting the demand for upgraded environmentally friendly tourist accommodation facilities in Western Australia's national parks.

"Karijini National Park is one of the State's natural treasures," she said.

"It is a major tourist attraction for State, national and international tourists keen to experience the native flora and fauna that we have to offer.

"The nature-based tourism industry is rapidly growing and it is imperative that we promote and enhance visitors' experiences by providing adequate facilities to meet this demand."

Mrs Edwardes said Auster Developments had been selected following a public call in December 1995 for expressions of interest for proposals to develop tourist accommodation in Karijini National Park.

"Auster indicated that they were prepared to undertake a multimillion dollar investment proposal to provide a range of accommodation to cater for not only the existing tourist market but also those areas of anticipated tourist growth primarily from overseas," she said.

"This range would include campsites, caravan sites, tented cabins, safari chalets and wilderness lodges.

"Auster Developments, a subsidiary of Hancock Prospecting, has a long association with the Pilbara and this is reflected in their proposal.

"They understand the need to involve the Aboriginal community in the planning, development and operational phases of any proposal and the need to address the problems of lack of water, comparative remoteness, isolation and other general infrastructure difficulties."

The Minister said Auster had embarked on a detailed program of consultation and planning to ensure that any development proposal would be viable and meet the needs of tourists whilst protecting the landscape and conservation values of the park.

Development proposals were subject to Ministerial approval and the approval of the National Parks and Nature Conservation Authority (NPNCA). They would also need to meet stringent environmental guidelines.

Mrs Edwardes said the accommodation plans were part of the draft management plan for the park released last year.

"At 627,444ha, Karijini is the State's second biggest national park and features the spectacular gorges of the Hamersley Ranges," she said.

"It is also home to more than 30 species of native mammals, 133 species of bird, 90 species of reptiles, eight species of fish and more than 480 species of native flowering plants.

"The draft management plan is designed to cater for public demand for recreational opportunities while maintaining and restoring the natural and cultural environment, conserving native flora and preserving archaeological, historic and scientific values."

Media contacts: Diana Russell Coote on (08) 9421 7777

Michael Burchett/Peta Wright, Hancock Prospecting (08) 9429 8222