The GKNP committee is delighted to partner with the Chamber of Commerce to raise awareness about the potential for the park, both in an economic and conservation sense.

Members of the public are encouraged to come along to the Bowraville Theatre from 3pm to hear more about what is this positive ambition for the Coffs Coast.

“We’re very excited that the Bowraville Chamber of Commerce has recognised the significant tourism and business opportunities the Great Koala National Park offers our area and Bowraville in particular,” Caitlin Hockey, Great Koala National Park spokesperson, said.

GKNP steering committee member, Paula Flack, will launch concept plans for a 65 km horse riding trail and a series of walks in the proposed park.

Senior Ecologist with the National Parks Association of NSW, Dr Oisín Sweeney, will discuss the need for the park and outline how community groups have planned implementation of the park so that it can support diverse recreation and tourism needs.

Plus there will be two short films and a Q&A session to complete the event.

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“Local groups have been promoting the Great Koala National Park since 2014 when the concept was born,” Caitlin said.

“Over that time, we have seen a steady increase in awareness and support for the park. Behind the growing support has been the dual realisation by the public that we must act now because koala numbers are falling fast, as well as the economic opportunities that the first national park in the world dedicated to koalas would bring.

“That’s why we’re really proud of our approach to the park: we know there’s a demand for recreation and tourism so we have tried to make sure that the park can work both for koalas and people.”

She said the launch of the horse riding and walking trails was the first step with more plans to follow, including mountain biking ideas.

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