22/05/2021
Maria Island's management plan is up for renewal, and it is important that we all have input into this process. These plans are the most important document to provide the legal framework for how a National Park is used and managed. The last management plan for Maria Island was written in 1998, well before the increased interest from interstate and international tourism for the island.
The plan outlines strategies for the management of Maria's flora and fauna, infrastructure maintenance and development, managing sensitive cultural and heritage values, World Heritage values, Marine Protected Area management and visitor services management and opportunities.
Maria Island National Park has become a tourism drawcard for the incredible and unique values that it has to offer. However, these values are not just for tourism, which is why this plan is more than just a tourism management strategy.
You may have an idea or suggestion on upgrading walking tracks, for installing additional toilets, for better protecting shore birds, increasing cultural awareness, identifying hazardous areas for future visitor engagement, w**d control or signage and interpretation.
Your suggestions may also be specific to tourism development and Maria Island's increasing visitation. Considering this plan will govern Maria Island's management for many years, it is critical to get this right.
If you do want to make comment, we encourage you to put your suggestions in writing to PWS and Inspiring Place (Inspiring Place is the Hobart consultancy developing the recommendations of the plan based on the community input).
Submissions will close Monday June 7th at 9am. Submissions should be emailed to [email protected]
