Barraba Track Decision Opens New Horizons
The National Parks Association today welcomed the decision by the National Parks and Wildlife Service that the so called "Barraba Track" to Mt Kaputar National Park would not be upgraded and extended.
"The decision is based on sound reasons of public safety, responsible use of limited public funds and environmental protection responsibilities," said Noel Plumb, NPA's Executive Officer.
"Far from confusion and amazement, we believe that the people of Barraba and the Shire Council now have a clear decision on which to base a more constructive partnership with the NPWS for the economic benefit of the town and the amenity of local people and tourists."
"The wilderness and other conservation values of the park will remain undamaged and are worth far more to the town in the long run."
Ms Robin Gunning, the President of NPA's Tamworth Namoi Branch, said "A fraction of the money needed for the upgrade of the track to acceptable safety standards, up to $1.3 million, would be sufficient to improve access and facilities in the park for visitors and to promote it as a feature of a visit to Barraba. In the end, no responsible government or Council could justify spending so much on a major extension of this track, given the more pressing calls for funds for community facilities and infrastructure, even if the environmental impacts were acceptable."
"Nearby Horton Falls is a fabulous tourist attraction. Barraba Shire should explore with the NPWS and the Minister the prospect of making the area a national park. At present its visitor facilities and access road are very run down but the falls have enormous potential to attract visitors to the town if properly maintained and promoted."
"Barraba Shire should be using its energies and influence with environment Minister Pam Allan for this more positive approach. The experience of towns like Dorrigo and Coolah show the real benefits of a co-operative approach with the NPWS in establishing and promoting nearby national parks."
"We would be happy to serve on any community task force set up by Council to explore such positive approaches or new horizons," Ms Gunning concluded.
Contact: Noel Plumb 02 9233 4660 or 018 975 075 Robin Gunning 02 6763 1128 w or 02 6766 2266 h
NATIONAL PARKS
ASSOCIATION OF NSW INC
PO Box A96 Sydney South 1235
Ph: (02) 9233 4660 Fax: (02) 9233 4880
For more information contact the National Parks Association office (Kristi Macdonald or John Macris) on (02) 9233 4660.
19 November 1998