Below is the text from an email received from Tredwell Management Consultants today. I thought I would get it out into the public space now so you all know what type of options are being proposed.
The Tourism Group will be calling a meeting soon so we can discuss this and other issues. We also intend to call the Executive Committee together shortly to meet with Tredwell to discuss progress with the Master Plan.
I have attached links to photos of each plan.
Hi Vince
Happy New Year! Hope you had a good break.
Please find attached conceptual trail plans, which will form
the basis for onward discussions:
·
SK01 Trail Alignment Options - for photo, click here
·
SK02 Alignment Option 3 - for photo, click here
·
SK03 Trailhead Concept - for photo, click here
·
SK04 Long Distance Trail - 18km (for
future consideration) - for photo, click here
Potential trail alignments (SK01) have been considered
primarily on the basis of making use of existing tracks that run through the
nature reserve. The intention being to minimise costs and environmental
impacts on existing ecological communities, whilst discouraging access onto the
rock itself and around the base of the rock.
Option 3 (SK02) makes use of existing tracks plus the
forming/defining of a new alignment for one section – it may well be that there
is an existing network of existing goat tracks that could be ‘enhanced’ with
minimal environmental impact. Interpretation points could be provided
immediately adjacent to the main trail alignment, however options to include
interpretation points at key locations closer to the rock might be explored,
dependent on the nature of the stories being told, and the sensitivities
(environmental/cultural) of those areas. These locations might offer
closer views of the rock and/or be related to a specific story/location,
accessed from a short ‘down-and-back’ side trail off the main trail.
These options will need to be investigated in more detail on
the ground, with appropriate direction from the Noongar people.
The design of the trailhead (SK03), viewing platform and
interpretation area would seek to discourage access onto the rock, in association
with developing a voluntary code of conduct to modify behaviours and educate
visitors about Noongar traditions and beliefs. Strategies/policies employed to
discourage climbing at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park will be further
investigated.
Beyond the scope of this project, but of potential interest
for the future, would be the consideration of developing a longer distance
trail starting from the Boyagin Rock trailhead (SK04). This would offer the
visitor/trail user an alternative, more challenging trail option. The
indicative alignment shown is based on a walk currently promoted by the WalkGPS
website – the feasibility of such a proposal (and its acceptability from an
environmental/cultural point of view) would be subject to a separate study, but
of relevance to this project.
Neil will be in touch with you to discuss the project
further and agree next steps.
With regards to scheduling a progress meeting, I would be
available to meet up on Thursday 6th February if that would be
convenient. Happy to meet at your office in Pingelly if that suits.
Kind regards
Dan
Daniel Ames
Open Space & Recreation Planner
Tredwell Management Services
Specialising in Sport,
Recreation and Open Space
