The McGowan Government has appointed an expert stakeholder convenor to help guide delivery of its election commitments to create the Fitzroy River ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Park and develop a management plan for the Fitzroy River.
Bardy McFarlane, a former member of the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Native Title Tribunal and Manager of Land Access at BHP Billiton, will provide stakeholder groups with a direct link to a newly formed Ministerial Council comprised of the Ministers for Aboriginal Affairs, Environment, Regional Development, Agriculture and Food and Water.
With the assistance of Mr McFarlane, the Ministerial Council will work closely with the newly formed Martuwarra Fitzroy River Council, the Fitzroy Valley Stakeholder Group, local governments, the Kimberley Like Nowhere Else Alliance and other organisations with an interest in the Fitzroy River.
As noted by Regional Development and Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“The McGowan Government has pledged to work closely with stakeholders in meeting its commitments for the Fitzroy River. Appointing Bardy McFarlane to the role of stakeholder convenor is part of this, providing a focus for work ahead.
“Mr McFarlane’s experience will help in translating the range of interests that the people of the Kimberley have into a plan for the future of the catchment that can benefit the community who lives and works there.”
As noted by Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
“The McGowan Government is committed to protecting and growing the environmental and economic future of the Fitzroy River for the people of the Kimberley. I encourage all stakeholders to work closely with the State Government and Bardy McFarlane as we progress a plan for the Fitzroy.”
As noted by Water Minister Dave Kelly:
“Having a clear and inclusive framework for consultation in the catchment is essential in delivering a water allocation plan that protects the health of the Fitzroy River and provides for sustainable economic development.”
As noted by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:
“The stakeholder convenor’s role will assist the engagement of Fitzroy Valley traditional owners, which will be critical to the overall success of forging consensus among stakeholders for the protection and sustainable development of the region.”
