After three decades, the Preston River to Ocean Park site is set to be realised thanks to the State Government’s new long-term preservation strategy.
The WA Government announced $10.5 million in the State Budget for the South West Regional Parks project.
Funding for the project looks set to cover additions such as walk trails, cycle paths, shelters, and fencing.
The initiative will develop two new parks – the Preston River to Ocean Park and the Leschenault Regional Park – in the Greater Bunbury region.
Environment Minister Stephen Dawson said the initiative was part of the government’s ongoing plan to provide accessible and friendly public spaces in Bunbury.
“This project has been on the cards since 1983, so it’s 35 years in the making,” he said.
“It’s a pristine area but also has cultural and tourism benefits as well.
“I want to see the state’s unique environment protected for future generations, so I want to see the expansion of the conservation estate.
“We’re particularly keen to see aboriginal groups and the local community benefit from the project.”
According to the WA Government, the Preston River to Ocean Park will be a continuous reserve of almost 900 hectares.
The 2297-hectare Leschenault Regional Park will stretch along the West Coastal Plain.
Three new ranger positions, reserved for indigenous applicants, will be created to cover both parklands.
Weed control and rehabilitation projects will be devised to help transform the bushland areas into parkland.
A Community Advisory Group will also be established later this year to determine boundaries and community concerns.
Environmental advocate and Bunbury resident Bernhard Bischoff was thrilled to see the government’s support for the area.
The $10.5m funding commitment was made by Labor during the 2017 State Election campaign.
Bunbury MLA Don Punch thanked the government for supporting the ecosystem in and around Bunbury.
“This is a start for getting the area back into control but also for looking at the assets we have,” he said.
“For me, this is a really special day.”
Mr Dawson and Mr Punch visited Maidens Reserve on Monday in celebration of the announcement.
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