Community consultation on Bay of Fires boundaries

16/10/2009

Tasmanians are encouraged to comment on proposed boundaries to define the State's newest national park. In March 2009, the Premier announced the State Government's intention to establish the Bay of Fires National Park on Tasmania's north-east coast.

The Minister for Primary Industries and Water, David Llewellyn, said that a project team was set up in the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment to scope issues and options associated with developing a national park.

"The State Government is now embarking on a public consultation process to garner feedback on the proposed boundaries," Mr Llewellyn said.

"There are eight reserves in the region: three conservation areas, one State and one Forest Reserve, an Historic Site, a Nature Conservation Area, and Mount William National Park.

"The areas being considered for inclusion in the 7,410-hectare national park are Mount Pearson State Reserve, part of the Bay of Fires Conservation Area and a parcel of Crown Land."

Mr Llewellyn said that land in the Bay of Fires area contains significant natural and cultural values and is used for a wide range of purposes by local residents, businesses, recreational users and tourists.

"It's also of particular importance to the Tasmanian Aboriginal community which has cultural linkages with the land both before and after European contact."

"This community consultation process is dealing solely with the proposed boundaries of the national park.

"The State Government has already established a separate process to address Tasmanian Aboriginal community interests in the region."

The consultation process for the proposed boundaries is being managed by Tasmanian consultants, Pitt and Sherry.

Consultation starts today and will run until Friday 27 November. Relevant documents are online: here; or contact Catherine Nicholson, Environmental Planner, Pitt and Sherry (cnicholson@pittsh.com.au), for a copy.