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Shark Bay's caretakers
The responsibility of protecting and conserving the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay is a serious task which is shared amongst three committees - the Ministerial Council, the Shark Bay Community Consultative Committee and the Shark Bay Scientific Advisory Committee.
Each has its own focus but complements the other - the Community Consultative Committee advises the Ministerial Council on the protection, conservation, presentation and management of the area from the community's view point. The Scientific Advisory Committee gives advice to the Ministerial Council on scientific research priorities, new information, scientific-basis for management and appropriateness of research.
Funding
The coordination of all three committees falls to Cheryl Cowell, funded with $44,000 from the Australian Government and support from the State Government via the Rangelands NRM Co-ordinating Group.
Activities
Cheryl said the committees ensured the best interests of the community and the environment were represented and World Heritage values were maintained.
"With each Council considering all activities, projects and developments that may impact on the area, we can ensure the best decisions from all perspectives are made for Shark Bay," Cheryl said.
The proposed Coburn Mineral Sands project recently went before the Community Consultative Committee, which is made up mostly of residents on or near the property and people with knowledge in conservation, heritage, local government, fishing, tourism, Aboriginal matters, park management or agriculture.
"The main issues raised were the level of groundwater usage, dust suppression and replanting of the site, with a dramatic reduction in the water table and increased groundwater salinity a very real possibility," Cheryl said.
Achievements
"Members recommended the issues be addressed before commencing the mining operation. They also recommended compensation be negotiated between the company and the lessee for potential reduced levels of artesian water pressure, loss of power generation from artesian water and impact on stock grazing due to plant reduction."
The Shark Bay Scientific Advisory Committee recently considered the expansion of the Monkey Mia Resort, deciding an expansion of existing facilities would be more desirable than new development at other sites.
More information
- Cheryl Cowell, WA Department of Environment and Conservation: 08 9948 1208 or cheryl.cowell@dec.wa.gov.au
- Shark Bay World Heritage website: www.sharkbay.org
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