Launch of a new management plan for Abrolhos Islands [Audio]

16/12/98

Fisheries Minister Monty House today launched a new management plan for one of Western Australia's most unique and valuable marine environments, the Abrolhos Islands.

Mr House said the plan, Management of the Houtman Abrolhos System, provided a clear direction for effective and integrated management of the islands.

The plan also included the State's first Fish Habitat Protection Area in the waters around the islands.

There are 122 islands in the Abrolhos system, situated about 60km west of Geraldton.

Mr House said the Abrolhos Islands' historical, cultural, scientific, tourism and fishing values required a management plan that balanced the needs of competing interests in the area, while providing long-term protection of the natural resource.

Preparation of the plan was co-ordinated by the Abrolhos Islands Management Advisory Committee (AIMAC), formed in 1996 and chaired by Michael Hardy. Mr House commended the work of the committee and their commitment to the future of the Abrolhos Islands.

Mr House said the effective implementation of the many strategies contained in the plan would be overseen by a new independent Abrolhos Islands Management Authority.

The AIMA would strengthen links with relevant authorities to address issues such as conservation, health, planning and building standards on the islands.

"The authority will have seven members with legislation to create the authority being developed over the next 12 months," the Minister said.

"Pending the establishment of the new authority, the Abrolhos Islands Management Advisory Committee will begin implementation of some of the key strategies."

The islands are home to many important species, including endangered sea birds and the western rock lobster which is Western Australia's single most valuable commercial fishery. The Abrolhos rock lobster fishery attracts around 150 boats with fishers living on 22 of the islands during the three-month season.

The islands are also a growing attraction for tourists and recreational fishers, while the Batavia wreck is a particularly popular diving spot and historical site.

"By identifying the islands' values and user groups the management plan provides a range of strategies that are consistent with the protection of this valuable natural asset," Mr House said.

"It recognises the need to improve public access to the area while protecting its natural, cultural and heritage values, sets fishing guidelines to protect species and recommends upgrading of building standards and waste disposal for current and future structures on the islands."

Mr House also released a separate report on tourism development on the islands for public comment. The report identifies the type of tourism best suited to the Islands' unique environment and provides management guidelines for these activities.

Submissions on the tourism report close on March 10 next year.

Copies of the new management plan and the draft report on tourism development for the Abrolhos Islands are available from Fisheries WA offices in Perth and Geraldton.

Media contact: Julie Cole (08) 9481 2044