A draft plan to protect one of the Pilbara’s most significant areas, Fortescue Marsh Nature Reserve (Nyiyaparli Country), is now open for public comment.

Covering 100,000 hectares in the Fortescue River valley between the Chichester and Hamersley ranges, the area is home to one of only three inland wetlands in north-western Australia and can support up to one million waterbirds. 

It also includes many important ceremonial and mythological sites for Nyiyaparli people. 

Karlka Nyiyaparli Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC Chairperson Keith Hall has welcomed the opportunity to protect the area’s cultural and natural values alongside joint management partners from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.  

"It is a good thing for us as Nyiyaparli people that the Marsh will be looked after. It is good to be working together with the State Government to do this,” Keith said. 

Conservation and Parks Commission Chairperson Jo Lanagan said the Nyiyaparli people bring more than 40,000 years of on-Country leadership, knowledge and vibrant culture to the conservation area, which was created in September 2024 as part of the State Government’s Plan for Our Parks initiative.

“The reserve also provides habitat for several conservation-significant wildlife species, including the critically endangered night parrot, endangered northern quoll, vulnerable greater bilby and vulnerable Pilbara olive python,” she said.

The public comment period for the Fortescue Marsh Nature Reserve (Nyiyaparli Country) draft joint management plan is open until 21 February 2025.

Online submissions can be made at dbca.wa.gov.au/haveyoursay
Hardcopy submissions can be sent to: 
Planning Unit – Aboriginal Engagement, Planning and Lands Branch 
Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions 
Locked Bag 104, Bentley Delivery Centre, WA 6983.