Aboriginal community wants to restrict Barrier Reef access

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7/02/2005

Aboriginal community wants to restrict Barrier Reef access
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Queensland tourism leaders have expressed concern at an Aboriginal community’s bid to have sole access to parts of the Great Barrier Reef and other World Heritage sites.

The move would give the Girringun people - whose traditional area extends within the Wet Tropics and the Great Barrier Reef - exclusive access to some of Queensland's premier tourist areas, including Hinchinbrook Island.

A report by CRC Reef Research Centre provides details of the proposal, which would allow the Girringun to restrict visitor numbers, charge entry fees and conduct their own tourist activities.

The Aboriginal community accused tourism operators of insensitivity towards cultural sites and disturbing the environment with the likes of dugong-watching tours.

They called for a restriction on the number of operator licences and greater consultation on tourism activities.

Queensland Tourism Industry Corporation ceo Daniel Gschwind defended the industry’s record. He claimed operators had show sensitivity to the Barrier Reef’s environmental needs and already worked closely with indigenous communities.

He said restricting access to parts of the reef would have a negative impact on local communities.

7 February 2005

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