Legislation to establish the Great Koala National Park has been introduced into the NSW Parliament, with the National Parks Association of NSW (NPA) warmly welcoming the move and the government’s commitment to protecting one of our most vital koala populations.
NPA President Liz Jeremy stated ‘After over a decade advocating for the Great Koala National Park, today the legislation to make it a reality has finally been introduced to parliament.
‘NPA’s vision, which began as a report proposal in 2015, could not have come this far without the ongoing dedication of our members, local communities, and allied conservation groups.
‘The Great Koala National Park will be a world class example of a large, connected reserve that will balance protecting nature with recreational opportunities, including free campsites, multi-day walks, and continued access for activities like dog walking, mountain biking, and horse riding.’
Dr Grahame Douglas of NPA Coffs Coast Branch, stated ‘The Great Koala National Park has the support of the vast majority of people in NSW who want to see our national icon protected.
‘The park will be a boon for our local region, bringing in $140 million a year, supporting new Aboriginal ranger positions and ongoing park management, while creating more jobs for locals.
“We applaud the NSW Government for delivering on its commitment to establish the Great Koala National Park and look forward to working together to turn this big idea into a reality that will give our threatened forest fauna and flora the best possible chance of survival, while paving the way for new opportunities for our local communities.
ENDS
Media contacts:
(02) 9299 0000
Liz Jeremy, NPA NSW President
Dr Grahame Douglas, NPA Coffs Coast Branch