LORD Howe Island residents with an interest in the marine environment are being encouraged to nominate for the Lord Howe Island Marine Park Advisory Committee, with the NSW Government seeking local expertise to help guide the future management of the island’s protected marine estate.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has opened nominations for the committee, with successful applicants appointed for an initial four-year term. Nominations close on 30 September 2026.
DPIRD Director of Marine Estate Management Sarah Fairfull said the advisory committee provides valuable local advice to the NSW Government on the management of the marine park.
“The committees provide important local advice to the NSW Government on marine park management, including local values, threats, issues and opportunities,” Ms Fairfull said.
The committee includes volunteer members representing a range of knowledge areas, including Aboriginal culture, conservation, fishing, marine science, boating, recreational water use, the maritime industry, tourism and scuba diving.
“To ensure a wide range of community values can be considered, each of the committees is made up of members with skills, experience and knowledge in areas such as Aboriginal culture, conservation, fishing, marine science, boating, recreational water use, maritime industry, tourism and scuba diving,” Ms Fairfull said.
She said the advisory committee plays an important role in ensuring local perspectives are considered when managing one of Australia’s most unique marine environments.
“Marine parks are special places designed to conserve marine biodiversity and deliver a range of benefits to the community, including public appreciation and enjoyment, Aboriginal culture, scientific research, education, and sustainable recreational and commercial uses such as scuba diving, fishing, boating and tourism,” Ms Fairfull said.
“I encourage members of the Lord Howe Island community with the relevant skills, experience and interest in providing a voice for their communities in the management of the marine estate and their local marine park to nominate for their local committee.”
More information and nomination forms are available through the NSW Marine Parks website.
By Sis HIGGINS
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