[Greens-Media] World Heritage on the cards for Ningaloo

[Norton, Tim (Sen R. Siewert)]

World Heritage on the cards for Ningaloo 
Wednesday 20th February 2008

The Australian Greens welcomed confirmation in Senate Estimates that the
Government would finally move of World Heritage protection for Ningaloo
Reef.

It was confirmed in Estimates yesterday that the Federal Government
plans to nominate Ningaloo Reef for the 2009 round of World Heritage
listing.

Yesterday Department of Environment and Heritage officials confirmed
that the region would be nominated by 1st Feb 2009 for final
consideration by the world heritage body in mid 2010. 

The boundary for the nomination has not been finalised by the State and
Federal governments.

"I'm extremely pleased that the Commonwealth and WA Governments have now
committed to a nomination by 2009, after years of inaction by the
previous federal government," said Australian Green Senator Rachel
Siewert.

"Not only is Ningaloo renown for its whale sharks, manta rays and
incredible diversity - scientists also believe that its unique location
and history means it is more likely to be resilient to climate change."

"It is so important that this reef is given the upmost protection and
management."

"There is no doubt in my mind that this unique reef will easily make it
onto the World Heritage list once it is nominated," she concluded.

For more information or comment call Chris Twomey on 0407 725 025
Email senator.siewert at aph.gov.au  |  http://www.rachelsiewert.org.au