5/10/05
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Agriculture and Forestry, the Mid-West and Wheatbelt, Tony McRae, is one of 500 participants attending the State’s first Natural Resource Management (NRM) Conference in Denmark this week.
Mr McRae, who has a leading role in Natural Resource Management in Western Australian Government, said working with community members from across regional WA was essential to ensure the $316million salinity and landcare program was delivered on-ground.
“I am looking forward to learning more about how we improve water quality, develop a better understanding of ecosystem processes and ensure WA’s land, water, native flora and fauna are here for future generations, as well as sustaining regional communities now,” Mr McRae said.
Mr McRae works with Agriculture Minister Kim Chance on implementing the State’s six NRM strategies covering the Avon, Northern Agriculture, Rangelands, South Coast, South-West and Swan Catchment areas.
“A number of conference delegates have expressed a real desire to see that WA’s regional NRM strategies empower local communities and industry to arrest salinity while improving water quality and bio-diversity,” he said.
“In July, Mr Chance appointed independent reviewer Mr Stuart Hicks to examine how people can best participate in their regions, minimise duplication of effort and put the maximum amount of money directly into on-ground work.
“Mr Hicks is due to finalise his report to the Minister within the next few weeks.
“The Gallop Government has a very clear focus to develop a robust regional network that supports successful delivery of NRM to the regions.
“Western Australia has one of the most extraordinary range of ecosystems in the world.
“Only a partnership between the Government and local communities can counter the loss of native species, protect and enhance our water resources and ensure our primary industries are sustainable into the future.”
Minister's office: 9213 6700
