JOINT MEDIA RELEASE WITH HON ROB STOKES MP, NSW MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
The Australian Government has taken the next important step to deliver on its promise to keep the Malabar Headland in public hands.
The Federal Government is transferring ownership of the South-Eastern Malabar Headland (known as Lot 202) to the New South Wales Government. Minister for the Environment Greg Hunt said the area would be made into a National Park.
“This portion of the Headland has stunning coastal scenery, historic World War Two defence sites and beautiful bushland, all in the heart of Sydney’s eastern suburbs,” Mr Hunt said.
“The Australian Government has been steadfast in ruling out the sale of any area of the Headland and I am extremely pleased about the progress we make today to ensure the whole community can enjoy this magnificent site.”
NSW Minister for the Environment Rob Stokes said the second section of the Headland to be transferred to National Park is almost three times that of the land received to date.
“This crucial addition to our National Park network will ensure that a precious piece of coastal bushland is protected forever,” Mr Stokes said.
“We are committed to protecting the Headland and ensuring that the largest remaining stretch of untouched bushland between Botany Bay and South Head remains in public ownership.”
Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith welcomed the transfer of the Headland.
“I am delighted the Baird Government and the Federal Government have ensured Malabar Headland remains in public hands for the benefit and enjoyment of our local community,” Mr Notley-Smith said.
“The Headland is very close to the hearts of people throughout Sydney and I am pleased we have been able to deliver on this promise.”
The Federal Government is also committing $5 million to upgrade the central portion of Headland known as Lot 301.
This includes funding to remediate the site so that the South East Equestrian Club can return to the headland, along with disabled riders. It will also be used to upgrade other facilities on the land and improve safety and amenities on the existing ANZAC Range.
Minister Hunt thanked the NSW Government and praised the work they were undertaking in the area.
“We will continue to work together and with community groups to ensure the whole of the Malabar Headland is kept in public hands, in perpetuity,” Mr Hunt said.
(ENDS)