One of the Illawarra’s most popular destinations, Killalea State Park, will be added to the NSW ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Parks estate, creating one of NSW’s newest Regional Parks.
Environment Minister Matt Kean said the transfer, from NSW Crown Lands, was a major win for the community who have campaigned for greater protections for some time.
“Killalea is an area of incredible ecological and cultural importance and a space that is much loved by locals attracting about 30,000 visitors a month,” Mr Kean said.
“As a Regional Park, Killalea will continue to be treasured, while at the same time its plants, animals, birds and threatened species will be protected for future generations,” Mr Kean said.
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the 260-hectare park will be dedicated as a Regional Park and protected by national parks legislation.
“Dedication of Killalea Regional Park will ensure this spectacular coastal location remains a pristine spot for camping, world class surfing, bushwalking, fishing and picnics,” Mrs Pavey said.
“The reserve is currently managed by Reflections Holiday Parks who welcome the outcome for it to come under the care of the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and recognise its unique environmental and cultural values.”
The Park is home to diverse vegetation types that support nine endangered ecological communities and provides habitat for many bird species.
Migratory shorebirds such as the Sooty and Pied Oyster Catcher are also known to nest at Killalea.
NPWS will develop a new Plan of Management for Killalea Regional Park when the transfer takes place, working with local residents, Aboriginal groups, Council, the surfing community and environmental groups.
Killalea Reserve
