Statement from MRBTA Chair, Stuart Hicks:
29 April 2024
I am delighted that yesterday the State Government announced significant funding for our region as part of a $165 million Outdoor Adventure Tourism package. The funding package includes:
- $17.5 million to complete our iconic Wadandi Track;
- $950,000 to provide campsites for Cape to Cape Track walkers at Mt Duckworth, Moses Rock and Ellensbrook; and,
- $250,000 for renewal of Conto Campground.
The announcement comes hot-off-the-heels of the State’s commitment to a new annual wine and food event for our region, Pair’d, and the Margaret River Pro being secured until 2028.
I know you will join me in thanking the State Government for their comprehensive investment in our industry and our region.
I also wish to express my gratitude to our regional partners and the Government agencies that have worked side-by-side with MRBTA and its Capes Foundation to articulate the region’s priorities through the Unbeaten Tracks Masterplan and Six-point Plan for the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. And I thank our local member, Jane Kelsbie MLA, for her unfailing support for these initiatives.
The Wadandi Track investment is a gamechanger for our region. It will provide a multi-use 110km walking and cycling trail from Busselton to Augusta, showcasing the heritage of the former Busselton to Flinders Bay Railway, Aboriginal cultural sites, floristically diverse reserves, and farmland and vineyards. Importantly, the Track will connect and create opportunities for the townships and businesses located in its proximity and position our region as one of the great food and wine tourism walk and cycle trail experiences on the planet.
The investment in campsites along the Cape to Cape Track, builds on last year’s announcement of $2 million to improve five of the most utilised sections of the Track, and $700,000 for signage within the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. Continued investment will enable the Cape to Cape Track to rightfully take its place as one of Australia’s five-star coastal walks.
We are now closer than ever to securing a 250km circuit track around the region’s offerings. The Leeuwin Trail in Augusta will soon be completed, linking the Cape to Cape Track and the Wadandi Track. On Geographe Bay, Cape Naturaliste is joinable to Busselton along the Meelup Reserve Trail and the City’s bike and trail network. Further improvements to the Cape to Cape Track can make the dream of a great regional circuit a reality, providing one of the longest, most varied and interesting walks in the country.
I now look forward to the State Government’s response to the Six-point Plan’s call for Joint Aboriginal Management of the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, and the appointment of four additional rangers, to help manage the Park.
Further reading: