The Fitzgerald Biosphere on the south coast of Western Australia has been recognised globally as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, raising the profile of the area to an international level.
With Fitzgerald River National Park at its core, the new biosphere includes 1.5 million hectares of conservation estate, State waters, farmland, and industrial and urban areas.
Fitzgerald River National Park was originally listed as a biosphere reserve in 1978, but required changes to meet the zoning criteria of the contemporary UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme. In 2010, as a result of strong community support, the decision was made to renominate an extended biosphere reserve.
The renomination was co-ordinated by the Biosphere Implementation Group comprising representatives of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions; the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development; the Great Southern Development Commission; the shires of Jerramungup and Ravensthorpe; the Ravensthorpe Agricultural Initiative Network; the Fitzgerald Biosphere Group; and the South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council.
Photo: Fitzgerald River National Park (Brian Yap (葉) / Flickr)