Flood and cyclone damaged Kimberley Parks to receive funding for reopening

To support the reopening of Marine, Conservation and National Parks in Western Australia's Kimberley region after cyclone and flood damage earlier this year, the Federal and Western Australian Governments are partnering to fund clean-up and repair works.

The Kimberley is home to some spectacular natural attractions, including National Parks such as Danggu Geikie Gorge and Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge).

Tens of thousands of tourists visit this area every year to enjoy an unforgettable outback experience immersed in the breathtaking landscapes.

Western Australian Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson shared "unfortunately, the flooding has significantly damaged access roads, fencing, walking trails and essential utilities in National and Conservation Parks. We need to repair and reopen these attractions, so local tour operators can get back to business.

"Traditional Owners, who jointly manage some parks, have also told of the need for Country to heal and for those who speak for Country to reconnect with flood-affected areas.

"This jointly funded program will enable these magnificent natural attractions and popular tourism destinations to be safely reopened to visitors."

Jointly funded through Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the program will support the WA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions to clean up debris and repair and reinstate National and Conservation Park minor visitor infrastructure damaged by the record-breaking flooding associated with Ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie.

The program will also fund the clean-up of fishing vessel debris and the repair of public moorings within the Rowley Shoals Marine Park, located 300km west of Broome, which was impacted by Tropical Cyclone Ilsa in April this year.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Murray Watt said the works would eventually allow visitors and locals to access the areas safely and noted that the governments are “committed to delivering clean-up and safety repairs in areas that hold environmental and natural significance for local communities and landholders.”

The National, Conservation and Marine Parks Clean-up Program will be managed by the WA Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

More information about the program is available at www.emergency.wa.gov.au/recovery

Image.Flood damaged Danggu Gorge National Park in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Credit:Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA)