The World Heritage listing of the spectacular Ningaloo Coast has marked its 10th anniversary.
The 604,500-hectare, marine and terrestrial area near Exmouth is home to a diverse range of wildlife and one of the world’s longest near-shore reefs.
Minister for Environment, Amber-Jade Sanderson said the Ningaloo Coast’s World Heritage listing was officially announced on 24 June 2011.
Ms Sanderson said the submission to the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) highlighted the coast’s natural beauty, significant geomorphic features and its biological diversity.
“The Ningaloo Reef is home to more than 500 species of fish and threatened marine life including whale sharks, manta rays, turtles and dugongs,” she said.
“Tourists flock to the region every year to admire this beautiful part of the world through an array of activities such as camping, snorkelling and hiking.”
Ms Sanderson said she was happy to celebrate the anniversary of such a special part of Western Australia.
“The Government is supporting the protection of this beautiful region, with nearly 50,000 hectares of new reserve added to the national park, as part of the Plan for Our Parks initiative,” she said.
“The Ningaloo Coast is a tourism drawcard, seeing thousands of tourists flock to the region every year, which generates local jobs, contributing to the economy.”
Further information on the Plan for Our Parks initiative can be accessed at this PS News link.
