Cape range and ningaloo coast awarded unesco world heritage status

The rugged beauty and bountiful marine wildlife of Cape Range Park and the Ningaloo Coast have been cast forward upon the international stage with a recent decision from UNESCO to add them to the World Heritage List. UNESCO World Heritage listing is an honour bestowed upon areas proven to possess 'significant cultural and / or natural heritage value to all the people of the world from present and future generations'.

The Ningaloo Coast is home to one of the largest near shore reefs in the world and is teming with a vast array of colourful coral and tropical fish species. It is also the site of mass whale migration and is frequented by large numbers of whale sharks and turtles. These were among the many reasons for the nomination that aimed to provide recognition to the area's myriad outstanding natural values.

As reported by the IUCN in its technical evaluation 'The coast form aesthetically striking landscapes and seascapes. The coastal waters host a major near shore reef system and a directly adjacent limestone karst system and assoicated habitats and species'.

The boundaries of the area are outlined in the above map. Small scale commercial and recreational fishing is still allowed within these boundaries as it has been deemed to pose no threat to the area. Similarly camping and tour operators will not be adversely affected.

According to the Department of Environment and Conservation one of the significant benefits of the listing is the 'commitment at local, state and national levels to manage the property for present and future generations'.