The Esperance community will have face-to-face access to expert staff working on the proposed South Coast Marine Park following the opening of a new information station conveniently close to the town centre shops.

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) is making dedicated staff available to the public to make sure people have the right information about the proposed marine park. 

Marine park planners, marine scientists and community engagement officers will be available from 9am to 3pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays for up to eight weeks. No bookings are required. 

The information station has full office facilities, including internet access, and detailed maps of the proposed marine park. People can drop in for a chat, have their questions answered and get guidance on making their submission. 

Marine park planners will also hold dedicated sessions in Hopetoun on 21 April and 25 May for individuals and small groups. The Hopetoun sessions can be booked online at: Proposed South Coast Marine Park - Chat with a Planner (office365.com) 

The proposed marine park will be a place for the community, culture and conservation. It will create new opportunities for nature-based tourism, supporting and further diversifying the local economy. 

The park will help protect marine species such as southern right whales, sea lion colonies, the ruby and leafy sea dragons and western blue groper. The public comment period is open until 16 June 2024. 

For more information and to have your say, visit www.dbca.wa.gov.au/pscmp. 

Comments attributed to DBCA’s Parks and Wildlife Service, Luke Bentley: 

“We are engaging with the community and want to dispel some of the myths that are circulating locally around the proposed marine park. 

“For example, there will be no changes to current 4WD access or dog walking on beaches in the proposed marine park. 

“About 75 per cent of the proposed marine park will remain open for commercial and recreational fishing, with 78 per cent of the coast open to beach fishing. Where there is a sanctuary zone proposed for a popular beach fishing spot, you can let us know through your submission and the zone can be adjusted to start offshore. 

“Talking makes a difference and our expert staff are great listeners, so I would encourage anyone with any concerns or questions, to come along to Esperance Lotteries House and have a chat. 

“Public comment is open for another two months, so make sure you have your say and make your submission.”