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(This website contains news items and media statements produced prior to August 2019 only.)

Yalgorup National Park to be expanded

Details: Published: Friday, 12 January 2018 10:32

1,001 hectares to be added to internationally recognised Yalgorup National Park The McGowan Labor Government has today announced it will add 1,001 hectares of Class A conservation reserve within world-renowned Yalgorup National Park. Located just over 100 kilometres south of Perth, Yalgorup National Park contains the internationally recognised Peel-Yalgorup Ramsar wetlands which provide habitat for migratory shorebird species as well as resident species such as the hooded plover. Yalgorup National Park also supports critical habitat for the endangered Carnaby's cockatoo and the vulnerable listed western ringtail possum. This reservation in the heart of Yalgorup National Park will ensure the long-term management and protection of critically important banksia and tuart woodlands. The move is part of the State Government's plan to increase the protection of threatened…

Invasive aquatic plant found in Perth waterway

Details: Published: Tuesday, 09 January 2018 12:02

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions is calling on Perth residents to help manage the spread of Amazon frogbit, following its discovery in a Perth waterway. Amazon frogbit, a highly invasive aquatic weed that can impact on river health and biodiversity, was first spotted in Bayswater Brook in late December. Originating from Central and South America, the Amazon frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum) spreads rapidly via fragments that are readily detached from the parent plant. Each plant fragment can produce multiple seed pods with each pod containing 20-30 seeds that are viable for at least three years. It is sold in Western Australia for use in aquariums, however when disposed of inappropriately the plant has the potential to cause widespread devastation by congesting drains, waterways and…

Green light for ‘Old Salt’ Swan River event barge

Details: Published: Friday, 05 January 2018 14:46

The Swan River is set to have another attraction for Western Australians and visitors to enjoy, with the McGowan Labor Government approving the development of a floating barge event venue about 400 metres from Elizabeth Quay. The 250-patron-capacity barge will complement the surrounding venues and landscapes on the Swan River through its modest and minimalist design. Events will include weddings and corporate functions, cinema nights, private seminars and workshops, as well as various breakfast and brunch options. Old Salt Pty Ltd lodged an application with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, which was then referred to relevant government agencies and local governments. Public submissions were also sought during a four-week period. Old Salt has proposed to transfer patrons between Barrack Square and the barge…

WA’s firefighters take to the skies for the 2017-18 bushfire season

Details: Published: Thursday, 21 December 2017 11:15

Western Australia's $21 million aerial firefighting fleet has been bolstered this bushfire season with the addition of a multipurpose helicopter and new multipurpose hangar. Emergency Services Minister Fran Logan and Environment Minister Stephen Dawson today launched the State's aerial fleet and the new operations base in Jandakot for the 2017-18 bushfire season. The new multipurpose hangar means the State's firefighting aviation services will operate under the one roof for the first time. The new base will also provide storage for specialist rescue and hazmat incident response equipment that can be rapidly deployed by air. The multipurpose helicopter can be used for water bombing, air attack supervision, heavy rescue, and transporting crews and equipment to natural disasters. The joint Department of Fire and Emergency Services and…

New campground for Margaret River region

Details: Published: Monday, 18 December 2017 10:50

New campground near Margaret River open for Christmas New $2.7 million campground for Jarrahdene The first stage of the new $2.7 million Jarrahdene Campground in the State’s south-west has been completed just in time for the Christmas holidays. Stage one of the project includes 24 individual camp sites, five double-cubicle toilets and four barbecue shelters, as well as tables and fireplaces for each camp site. Located 21 kilometres south of Margaret River, Jarrahdene Campground is next to the remains of the State Heritage-listed Jarrahdene Mill, which was built in 1896 and was the centre of the local community and economy. The completed campground will feature 36 camp sites and two group camping areas that can be used by school groups and outdoor education providers. It…