Ningaloo Coastal Reserves to protect culture and country

The WA Government has announced a new joint management plan to protect Nyinggulu (Ningaloo) coastal reserves alongside the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Marine Park.

The 215km stretch of coastal reserves will be jointly managed by Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Aboriginal Corporation and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions’ Parks and Wildlife team to protect culture and country.

The Nyinggulu coastal reserves were announced in 2020 under the McGowan Government’s Plan for Our Parks initiative, however the finalising of this new joint management plan will help create economic development opportunities for Traditional Owners that also protect the environment.

The coastal reserves have a rich ceremonial and mythological significance and are home to threatened black-flanked rock wallaby, turtle nesting areas, seabird and shorebird roosting and breeding areas, as well as priority flora.

Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Aboriginal Corporation Chair Paul Baron welcomed the announcement:

“We have a responsibility for our Country. We look forward to the Traditional Owners working together with Government and being employed on Country, learning and teaching each other.”

This new joint management plan will help to safeguard Aboriginal culture, protect wildlife, support tourism, and create economic development opportunities for Traditional Owners on country.

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