01/03/2006 - Greg Hunt
MP, Parliamentary Secretary with ministerial
responsibility for Booderee National Park,
today announced a new fee structure that
will give veterans, carers and the disabled
lower entry fees at Booderee National Park
as of July 1 this year, as part of a broader
fee restructure.
"The new fees will mean that veterans,
carers, TPI card holders and the disabled
will enjoy lower entry fees to this increasingly
popular park, Mr Hunt said.
"I would like to congratulate the Federal
Member for Gilmore, Mrs Joanna Gash for
her continued perseverance in seeking better
concessions for veterans, carers and the
disabled.
"She has lobbied hard for these wins."
"The day pass for all users will now
extend to two days for the price of one.
"This new fee structure is fairer,
with some great deals for regular visitors,
whilst also helping to offset increasing
park costs.
"The restructure will top up the significant
contribution made through Australian Government
funding to make sure that Booderee continues
to offer excellent facilities and education
programs whilst protecting its fantastic
natural environment.
"All additional revenue will go back
into the park and help support local businesses
and jobs."
Mr Hunt said the fee restructure will also
address the needs of different kinds of
visitors.
"Many of our day visitors want more
than just a day to relax and experience
all the park has to offer, so the $10 entry
fee will now cover visitors for two days.
We've also created short stay itineraries
so visitors can make the most of their time."
"Booderee's local neighbours enjoy
the park's quiet beaches, walking tracks
and Botanic Gardens and they often want
to show the park to visiting family and
friends, so we're introducing a discounted
price for a second family car."
"We need to increase the cost of annual
passes to cover maintenance costs, but locals
will be pleased to hear we will have a new
two year 'value pass' at the old rate,"
Mr Hunt said.
Mr Hunt said the restructure of camping
fees, the first in 14 years, created a much
fairer system.
"Booderee National Park attracts tens
of thousands of campers, who visit the park
every year because they love the uncrowded
beaches, family friendly environment and
great facilities including hot showers.
Rather than increase the number of sites
to raise more revenue, we have increased
peak period rates so they are in line with
other campgrounds."
"Prices in off season or shoulder periods
will actually be cheaper for some, and although
prices in peak season have increased, all
campers will now have a park entry fee pass
included in the fees. "
"The new system is fairer as camping
fees will be better linked to the size of
their site and number of people using the
facilities," Mr Hunt said.
"The modest increase in park income
from the fee restructure will support conservation,
weed control, road maintenance and research
into rare and endangered species. The continued
support of visitors to the park is allowing
us to offer activities for families and
schools and develop new areas like the Bush
Tucker garden - and make Booderee an even
greater national park."
