Whitsundays moorings and watersports areas expanded

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is seeking comment on proposed amendments to recreational and tourism use in the Whitsundays area of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

With more than 40 per cent of all visitors to the Great Barrier Reef arriving via the Whitsundays, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has decided its time to update the Whitsundays Plan of Management last amended nine years ago

Public comment is now sought on proposed amendments to the Whitsundays Plan of Management.

For boaters, the plans include enhanced anchoring access for superyachts at various locations, particularly for vessels less than 70 metres, as well as more private moorings and dedicated motorised water sports areas.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority general manager Simon Banks said the proposed amendments sought to protect the plant, animal, habitat and heritage values of the unique destination, while ensuring flexibility for people to enjoy the World Heritage Area.

"We recognise it is a multiple-use area and the Whitsundays Plan of Management is a key tool in protecting the biodiversity of the region, as well as its beauty, to make sure we can all continue to appreciate it.

"Updating the plan continues to ensure effective management of this spectacular area and we’re keen to have as much input as possible into these proposed amendments."

Among other key proposed amendments are removing reef walking as a permitted activity and further protecting seabirds by limiting access to important nesting sites.

Have your say online by April 7, 2017, at Plans of Management in the Whitsundays.