Funding for new marine park in the Exmouth Gulf secured in State Budget

A new marine park in the Gascoyne is one step closer after more than $3 million was allocated in the State Budget to preserve the Exmouth Gulf for the future. The $3.4m commitment will provide $800,000 in funding to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions to establish a new marine park in Exmouth Gulf. This includes funding for co-designing the marine park with traditional owners, alongside the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. The new marine park will be established over the eastern and southern parts of the Exmouth Gulf, and Class A reserves will be gazetted for local areas of significance such as Qualing Pool, Camerons Cave and the islands of Exmouth Gulf. The commitment comes in response to Environmental Protection Authority recommended measures to preserve the area’s unique environmental and cultural values. A further $2.6m is being provided to the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation to support the Exmouth Gulf Taskforce, which will be chaired by former North Metropolitan Region MLC Laine Ashforth-McDonald. Fisheries Minister Don Punch said the commitment was a win for the Gascoyne. “I am very pleased to see planning for the marine park commencing, which will coexist with existing commercial fishing operations and ensure this unique area of our State is protected for generations to come,” he said. “I am looking forward to seeing the newly appointed chair lead a unified approach to the protection of the Exmouth Gulf through genuine engagement with our recreational, charter and commercial fishers.”