9 April 2008

A new Victoria University research report has revealed mixed community attitudes towards Croajingolong National Park and the surrounding natural environment.

The report is based on research by Victoria University PhD student Judi Inglis. In 2006 she visited the area and collected information from residents of Mallacoota, Cann River and Bemm River.

Among residents who participated in the research the majority displayed 'pro ecological' views. They believe the natural environment is important in its own right and are willing to volunteer to maintain or manage sections of the national park and adjust their lifestyle for the environment.

Inglis found that most residents had a strong attachment to the park and surrounding region developed through memories of an emotional or historic nature, often from childhood.

She said: "The majority of participants drew inspirational and spiritual meaning from the park and locations in the region and felt that it provided tranquillity and a buffer from the trials of modern life."

The report identified local community identity as deeply connected with the national park, and according to Inglis this has implications for management to ensure that the status of the national park is protected.

She said: "The unique identity of the community and the bond they have to the park should be preserved."

Residents reported that they used various locations in and around the national park for recreational purposes with the majority undertaking 'appreciative' activities such as bird watching, nature walks, nature study, picnics and sight seeing activities.

Participants also expressed concern about local issues that could affect the natural features of the region and their way of life, such as the proposed development at Bastion Point and increased pressure on fishing at Bemm River and Sydenham Inlet.

The attitudes of local business owners were found to be split between a 'pro ecological' perspective and a view that the environment is only of significance if it is of use to people - where use for business purposes is more important than other considerations.

Findings from the study will inform management plans used to maintain the park and conserve the neighbouring natural environment.

Inglis said: "Consulting the community about decisions affecting the national park and neighbouring areas, as well as ensuring the skills and knowledge of local residents are fully utilised, could have enormous benefit for the natural environment."

"On the other hand inappropriate development could shatter people's attachment to the national park and surrounding areas."

"What this research shows is that as long as people care about natural places there is a good chance they will play an active role in looking after them."

The research was supported by Parks Victoria and funded by Victoria University and the Cooperative Research Centre for Sustainable Tourism.

Media Contact: Ms Christine White, Media Manager,
Marketing & Communications Department, Victoria University
Ph: (03) 9919 4322; mobile: 0434 602 884