Management changes to seven lakeside state parks

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Management changes to seven lakeside state parks

In July the NSW government announced a new management model for seven NSW state parks located on inland dams.

Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner said the new management model was based on the models already established at Crown caravan parks along the NSW North and South Coasts, which includes the 2011 ‘Best Holiday Park in Australia’ Clarkes Beach Holiday Park at Byron Bay.

“The new model will bring a professional management structure to the state parks and provide a sustainable future in a competitive leisure market,” Mr Stoner said.

“A new trust will be responsible for the coordinated management of the Inland Waters Holiday Parks, comprising Burrinjuck Waters, Copeton Waters, Grabine Lakeside, Lake Burrendong, Lake Glenbawn, Lake Keepit and Wyangala Waters state parks. This model replaces the seven separate trusts previously responsible for the management of these valuable community facilities.

“By introducing more efficient and professional management practices, the Inland Water Holiday Parks will be able to offer improved access, facilities and overall a better experience for visitors.

“The NSW Government and the community are very grateful to the hard-working volunteers who managed these parks up until now and I thank them for their commitment. But it has to be acknowledged the state parks operate in an increasingly complex regulatory environment and competitive marketplace, and this requires a commitment beyond what can be reasonably expected from part-time volunteers.

“The NSW Government is well aware of the importance of the parks to local communities which is why community advisory committees will be established to advise park management. This provides continuity from the previous volunteer trust board model and ensures community input on the future of the parks.

“The new model was determined after a strategic review of state parks, involving consultation with stakeholders such as the current trustees, administrators and the State Park Trusts Advisory Board.

“The advisory board will also be disbanded and I wish to thank its members for their dedication to state parks and cooperation with the review and its outcomes.

“The transition to the new arrangement will take some months to complete.”

Source: NSW CoFA