Bald Rock and Boonoo Boonoo national parks to undergo upgrades

New amendments to the Plan of Management for Bald Rock and Boonoo Boonoo national parks are set to enhance tourism and visitor facilities in the Tenterfield region of New South Wales. The changes, adopted by NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe, officially recognize the Western Bundjalung People as native title holders and incorporate the 2018 Western Bundjalung Indigenous Land Use Agreement.

Infrastructure improvements include upgrades to the Cypress Pine campground and the Bald Rock picnic area. Additionally, a cabin in Boonoo Boonoo National Park will be offered for short-term accommodation. To manage environmental impact and improve access, the plan allows for the construction of cycling bridges at submerged creek crossings to reduce erosion.

The updated management plan also focuses on cultural heritage, allowing for Western Bundjalung cultural interpretation within the parks. Commercial operators providing Aboriginal cultural heritage material will require endorsement from the native title holders. These measures aim to balance increased visitor numbers with the protection of the parks’ natural and cultural values.