Mid-North Coast Timber Logging Halted as Great Koala National Park Boundary Confirmed
Forestry operations will cease across a meaningful swathe of the mid-north coast of New South Wales following the finalisation of the boundary for the proposed Great Koala National Park. The park, intended to protect koala populations and old-growth forests, will encompass approximately 175,000 hectares, effectively ending native timber logging in the area.
The decision, announced today, impacts timber haulage and associated industries. “There’ll be all of the downflow effects on haulage,” said a forestry industry representative. “All of the truck drivers, all of the people who look after the truck drivers. All of the people and businesses who provide the certainty of the timber industry.”
A key component of the park’s management will be the employment of dedicated Aboriginal rangers through Aboriginal community-controlled organisations, focusing on cultural heritage preservation within the park’s boundaries. The area holds significant cultural importance for the Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti peoples, and the park aims to provide opportunities for continued Indigenous land management.”Prioritising First Nations knowledge and management is critical to protecting country,” stated Jacqui mumford, chief executive of the NSW Nature Conservation council.
The NSW government anticipates an economic boost from increased tourism, estimating a surplus of more than $160 million over the next two decades, with an additional 85,000 visitor nights annually. The park is also intended to safeguard vital old-growth forests and important water catchments.
