GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE Regional Planning Strategy

CONTENTS

Page No.

Minister’s Foreword...... iii Foreword by the Steering Committee Chairman...... iv Executive Summary ...... ix Summary of Recommendations ...... x

PART 1 – BACKGROUND ...... 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION ...... 2 1.1 THE GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE REGION...... 2 1.2 THE NEED FOR THE STRATEGY ...... 2 1.3 MAJOR PLANNING ISSUES...... 4 1.4 PURPOSE OF THE STRATEGY...... 5 1.5 STUDY PROCESS ...... 6 1.6 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ...... 6 1.7 STUDY MANAGEMENT ...... 6 2.0 PLANNING CONTEXT...... 8 2.1 REGIONAL PLANNING IN THE REGION (PAST INITIATIVES)...... 8 2.2 COMMONWEALTH AND STATE GOVERNMENT POLICIES (MAJOR POLICIES INFLUENCING PLANNING) ....9 2.2.1 The Commonwealth Government ...... 9 2.2.2 The State Government...... 9 2.3 LAND USE PLANNING SYSTEM IN WA (PLANNING HIERARCHY AND STATE PLANNING STRATEGY)...... 12 3.0 PLANNING ANALYSIS...... 16 3.1 DEMOGRAPHIC CONSIDERATIONS...... 16 3.1.1 Population...... 16 3.1.2 Methodology ...... 16 3.1.3 Gender Ratio and Age Structure...... 18 3.1.4 Income Levels and Distribution ...... 18 3.1.5 Employment by Industry ...... 18 3.1.6 Demographic Trends in the Shires and Cities of the Region ...... 18 3.2 SETTLEMENTS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES...... 20 3.2.1 Issues Affecting Patterns of Growth and Settlement...... 20 3.2.2 Analysis of Settlements ...... 22 Kalgoorlie-Boulder – Regional Centre ...... 22 Esperance – Sub-regional Centre...... 25 Leonora – Sub-regional Centre...... 26 Laverton – District Service Centre...... 28 Leinster – District Service Centre ...... 30 Coolgardie – District Service Centre...... 32 Kambalda – District Service Centre ...... 34 Norseman – District Service Centre...... 36 Ravensthorpe – District Service Centre ...... 36 Menzies – Local Service Centre ...... 39 Eucla – Local Service Centre ...... 41 Hopetoun – Local Service Centre...... 41 Warburton – Local Service Centre ...... 43 Aboriginal Communities...... 43 Other Settlements – Local Service Centres...... 46

v CONTENTS

Page No.

3.3 HERITAGE AND CULTURE...... 47 3.3.1 Aboriginal Heritage...... 47 3.3.2 European History and Heritage...... 47 3.4 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION ...... 50 3.4.1 Physical Characteristics...... 50 3.4.2 Land Degradation ...... 59 3.4.3 Conservation Estate ...... 60 3.5 COASTAL AND MARINE PROTECTION...... 62 3.6 ECONOMIC RESOURCES AND PROPOSALS ...... 63 3.6.1 Mining...... 63 3.6.2 Basic Raw Materials ...... 70 3.6.3 Industrial Development...... 70 3.6.4 Agriculture...... 71 3.6.5 Pastoral Uses ...... 73 3.6.6 Forestry ...... 74 3.6.7 Fishing and Aquaculture...... 75 3.6.8 Tourism ...... 76 3.6.9 Regional Enterprise...... 77 3.7 REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE ...... 79 3.7.1 Water and Wastewater Requirements...... 79 3.7.2 Power and Energy ...... 82 3.7.3 Roads...... 83 3.7.4 Rail...... 85 3.7.5 Air Transport ...... 86 3.7.6 Ports...... 86 3.7.7 Telecommunications...... 87 3.7.8 Waste Management and Contaminated Sites...... 88

PART 2 – THE REGIONAL STRATEGY ...... 89 4.0 GOLDFIELDS – ESPERANCE REGIONAL PLANNING STRATEGY ...... 90 4.1 STUDY VISION AND PLANNING PRINCIPLES ...... 90 5.0 STRATEGIC POLICY FRAMEWORK (STRATEGY, ISSUES, OBJECTIVES AND RECOMMENDATIONS) ...... 91 5.1 SETTLEMENTS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES...... 91 5.2 HERITAGE AND CULTURE STRATEGY ...... 93 5.3 TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION STRATEGY...... 94 5.4 COASTAL AND MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION STRATEGY...... 97 5.5 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY...... 98 5.5.1 Mineral Resources and Basic Raw Materials Strategy...... 98 5.5.2 Industrial Development...... 99 5.5.3 Agriculture Strategy ...... 101 5.5.4 Pastoral Strategy...... 103 5.5.5 Forestry ...... 105 5.5.6 Fishing and Aquaculture Strategy...... 106 5.5.7 Tourism and Recreation Strategy ...... 108 5.5.8 Regional Enterprise Development Strategy...... 110

vi CONTENTS 1

Page No.

5.6 REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY...... 112 5.6.1 Water and Wastewater Strategy...... 112 5.6.2 Power and Energy ...... 114 5.6.3 Roads Strategy ...... 115 5.6.4 Rail Strategy...... 116 5.6.5 Air Transport Strategy ...... 117 5.6.6 Ports Strategy...... 119 5.6.7 Telecommunications...... 120 5.6.8 Waste Management and Contaminated Sites...... 121 6.0 REGIONAL LAND USE PLAN ...... 122 6.1 PASTORAL...... 122 6.2 AGRICULTURAL...... 122 6.3 INTENSIVE AGRICULTURE...... 125 6.4 ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING PRIORITY AREAS...... 125 6.5 MARINE PLANNING PRIORITY AREAS...... 125 6.6 SETTLEMENT HIERARCHY ...... 126 6.7 ABORIGINAL USE AREAS...... 126 6.8 REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE ...... 126 7.0 KALGOORLIE-BOULDER STRUCTURE PLAN...... 127 7.1 INTRODUCTION...... 127 7.2 PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS...... 127 7.3 STRUCTURE PLAN...... 130 Land Use ...... 130 Infrastructure and Services...... 135 7.4 KALGOORLIE-BOULDER STRUCTURE PLAN IMPLEMENTATION ...... 138 8.0 ESPERANCE STRUCTURE PLAN...... 140 8.1 INTRODUCTION...... 140 8.2 PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS...... 140 8.3 STRUCTURE PLAN...... 143 Land Uses...... 143 Infrastructure and Services...... 144 8.4 ESPERANCE STRUCTURE PLAN IMPLEMENTATION ...... 148

PART 3 – IMPLEMENTATION ...... 149 9.0 IMPLEMENTING THE STRATEGY ...... 150 9.1 METHODS OF IMPLEMENTATION...... 150 9.2 LEVELS OF IMPLEMENTATION AND COORDINATION...... 150 9.3 OTHER STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES ...... 150 9.4 ASSOCIATED AND ONGOING STUDIES ...... 150 9.5 PRIVATE ENTERPRISE AND PRIVATE INVOLVEMENT ...... 151 9.6 MONITORING AND REVIEW...... 151

APPENDIX ONE: GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS...... 153 APPENDIX TWO: GLOSSARY OF ABBREVIATIONS...... 154 APPENDIX THREE: ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES CONSULTATION ...... 155 APPENDIX FOUR: MINEDEX EXTRACT – JUNE 2000 ...... 156 APPENDIX FIVE: REFERENCES ...... 158

vii CONTENTS

Page No. LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Study Area...... 3 Figure 2: State Planing Strategy (1997) Map 20 – Goldfields-Esperance Region ...... 15 Figure 3: Leonora...... 27 Figure 4: Laverton...... 29 Figure 5: Leinster ...... 30 Figure 6: Coolgardie ...... 31 Figure 7: Kambalda...... 33 Figure 8: Kambalda West...... 35 Figure 9: Norseman ...... 37 Figure 10: Ravensthorpe...... 38 Figure 11: Menzies ...... 40 Figure 12: Eucla ...... 41 Figure 13: Hopetoun...... 42 Figure 14: Warburton ...... 43 Figure 15: Settlement Plan ...... 44 Figure 16: Tindale Tribal Regions...... 48 Figure 17: Study Area Sub-Regions...... 52 Figure 18: Geology...... 53 Figure 19: Vegetation Character Types ...... 54 Figure 20: Surface Water Drainage and Groundwater Basins...... 57 Figure 21: Landscape Character Types...... 58 Figure 22: Existing Land Tenure...... 61 Figure 23: Primary Mineralisation Areas and Mining Projects ...... 65 Figure 24: Esperance Agricultural Sub-Region ...... 72 Figure 25: Regional Infrastructure ...... 80 Figure 26: Goldfields-Esperance Region...... 123 Figure 27: Goldfields-Esperance Region Plan ...... 124 Figure 28: Kalgoorlie-Boulder ...... 133 Figure 29: Kalgoorlie-Boulder Structure Plan...... 134 Figure 30: Kalgoorlie-Boulder Road Hierarchy...... 136 Figure 31: Esperance...... 145 Figure 32: Esperance Structure Plan ...... 146 LIST OF TABLES Table 1: Projected Population Scenarios for the Goldfields-Esperance Region ...... 17 Table 2: Hierarchy of Settlements/Communities in the Goldfields-Esperance Region...... 21 Table 3: Table of Land Availability (as at December 1998) – Residential ...... 24 Table 4: Gold Mines and Deposits...... 66 Table 5: Nickel Mines And Deposits...... 68 Table 6: Miscellaneous Mines And Deposits ...... 69 Table 7: Water Consumption in the Goldfields for 1997/98...... 79

viii GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE Regional Planning Strategy

JULY 2000 © State of Western Australia

Published by the Western Australian Planning Commission Albert Facey House 469 Wellington Street Perth, Western Australian 6000

Published July 2000

ISBN 0 7309 9168 7

Internet: http://www.planning.wa.gov.au E-mail: [email protected] Fax: (08) 9264 7566 Phone: (08) 9264 7777 TTY: (08) 9264 7535 Infoline: 1800 626 477

Copies of this document are available in alternative formats on application to the Disability Services Coordinator

ii MINISTER’S FOREWORD

he Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning Strategy has aimed to integrate this large and diverse Tregion by providing an overall vision for its future growth and development. The Goldfields-Esperance region is diverse in both physical and social characteristics: the north is predominantly desert, inhabited by scattered communities; the Goldfields, dominated by mining activity, has small service centres and established towns such as Kalgoorlie-Boulder; and the Esperance sub-region with its coastal location and port, which services the agricultural community, is an important gateway for the export and import of resources.

The Goldfields-Esperance Region is predominantly mineral resource based and further economic and population growth will depend on the efficient winning of minerals. There are great opportunities to further develop the region as an economic powerhouse. In the short term, downstream processing of minerals will increase, as will the export of goods and services related to the mining industry.

Tourism is an emerging growth industry. The region has a diversity of tourist attractions ranging from the beautiful and unspoilt coastline of the southern coastal area, to the mining heritage and grand buildings of the towns in the central and northern Goldfields. There is potential to incorporate Aboriginal culture and heritage as an ecotourism opportunity.

The State Government has a long standing commitment to the regions in Western Australia and recognises the need to approach regional development in a way which promotes coordination and integration. This includes the promotion of regional areas as desirable places to live, work and invest. For this to occur in the Goldfields-Esperance Region, there is a responsibility for Government to provide fundamental infrastructure for the region, and to foster the continued development of mining and agricultural activity. The region plan provides a framework for State Government and local governments for long term planning and provision of infrastructure in the region.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Esperance are the established population centres in the region. Structure plans have been prepared for both centres to guide future urban expansion, and community and infrastructure coordination.

GRAHAM KIERATH MLA MINISTER FOR PLANNING

iii FOREWORD BY THE STEERING COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN

The State Planning Strategy recommended a regional strategy be prepared to identify future land use needs and address the current demand and growth requirements of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Esperance.

The formulation of this regional strategy has been a joint exercise between the State Government and local governments through the establishment of a Steering Committee and Technical Working Group.

The Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning Strategy was completed following an extensive public consultation and data collection program undertaken by the Ministry for Planning. Completed tasks include:

• Community consultation workshops in the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the Towns of Esperance, Ravensthorpe/Hopetoun, Norseman, Kambalda, Coolgardie, Leonora and Laverton (August 1997).

• A Regional Infrastructure Audit Study by consultants Gutteridge Haskins and Davey (July 1998). The study provides a detailed inventory of existing regional and community infrastructure and is a technical resource document to assist in the long term planning of the Goldfields-Esperance Region.

• Consultation with Aboriginal communities (October, 1998).

• A three-month public review (May – August, 1999).

The aim of the strategy is to provide a strategic framework for an integrated approach to planning in the region for the next 30 years. The strategy incorporates structure plans for the City of Kalgoorlie- Boulder and the Town of Esperance to guide future urban expansion and community and infrastructure coordination.

I wish to thank the Steering Committee and Technical Working Group for their input to the plan and the time which they have contributed in reading drafts, commenting and providing feedback. I also acknowledge the work of the study team for their efforts and enthusiasm in bringing together and completing this exercise.

GARY PRATTLEY CHAIRMAN, STEERING COMMITTEE GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE REGIONAL PLANNING STRATEGY

iv EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1

The Goldfields-Esperance Region is the largest region in the • Infrastructure principle: to facilitate strategic development State and has a diverse environment. It ranges from the desert by ensuring that land use, transport and public utilities are areas in the north-east, the woodland, forest and mallee of the mutually supportive. central goldfields to the Esperance sandplain and areas along the • Environmental principle: to protect and enhance the key south coast. natural and cultural assets of the region and deliver to all Sixty four percent of the region’s population is based in residents a high quality of life which is based on Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Esperance. environmentally sustainable principles.

The region has a sizeable Aboriginal population with close • Economic principle: to actively assist in the creation of traditional ties to the land. regional wealth, support the development of new industries and encourage economic activity in accordance with The mining industry is the principal economic base for much of sustainable development principles. the region and the distribution of existing mines, future mines and downstream processing projects has a significant influence • Regional development principle: to assist the development on the region’s infrastructure requirements. The population of of the region by taking account of the region’s special assets the Goldfields sub-region is influenced by the volatility of the and accommodating its individual requirements. mining industry. Many towns in the region are dependent on the A policy framework sets out the objectives, principal issues, mining industry for employment, with decisions of mining strategy, guidelines and recommendations for: companies and the state of the economy having a significant impact on their future. • Settlements and community services. • Heritage and culture. The growth and development of the region and the major • Environmental protection and the coast. regional centres is dependent on the availability of land and infrastructure to facilitate and channel growth. It is the aim of this • Resource and industrial development. strategy that all settlements in the region will have access to • Regional infrastructure requirements. essential services. To achieve this the strategy promotes the provision of higher order services in major or sub-regional At the end of each guideline and recommendation, a lead agency centres. Lower order centres can be sustained through the and a list of associated agencies are shown which will need to provision of appropriate and adequate services. work together to implement a particular action. Similarly, there are many private and community groups and individuals who Much of the existing infrastructure in this region, outside the may need to work together to implement a particular major centres, is of a lesser standard than in similar sized recommendation. settlements elsewhere in regional Australia. An infrastructure audit has identified gaps and future needs. The improvement of A regional land use plan sets out the predominant use of land, regional infrastructure is promoted to assist in creating regional embracing multiple use concepts which will allow decision- wealth and to provide community stability. makers a degree of flexibility in implementation.

An overall vision statement and broad principles provide the Structure plans have been prepared for the City of Kalgoorlie- foundation of the strategy. The vision statement for the strategy is: Boulder and the Town of Esperance as a component of the regional strategy. The land uses displayed in the structure plans The region will be based upon a diverse and vibrant economy, are complementary to the overall regional strategy and current offering an attractive lifestyle with a range of services and approved local initiatives such as the town planning schemes, and recreational opportunities, while embracing environmental will have a 30-year time frame. principles. The Strategy was available for public comment from May to The following represent the broad principles of the strategy, August, 1999. 22 submissions were received in total, with general which reflect those contained in the State Planning Strategy support and no major issues raised during the public comment (WAPC, 1997). period. The final Strategy reflects any issues raised by the submissions. • Community principle: to respond to social changes and facilitate the creation of vibrant, accessible, safe and self- reliant communities.

ix SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

SETTLEMENTS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES • Undertake consultation to determine the nature and extent of mineralisation to enable forward planning of land releases in major towns and for major projects and infrastructure. (DOLA/DME/CME, LG)

• Continue to update the land supply register for Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Esperance and other towns as required. (LG, MfP, DOLA)

• Prepare Community Layout Plans for major Aboriginal communities in the region. (AAD, ATSIC, LG, MfP)

• Determine a whole-of-government approach to planning for Aboriginal communities including: • Responsibility for capital expenditure; maintenance; and coordination of program delivery of infrastructure such as water, power, roads, local government services, airstrips, health services, housing and community facilities. • Identification of a formal process for the preparation, consideration and implementation of Community Layout Plans. (AAD, ATSIC, WAPC, LG, GEDC)

HERITAGE AND CULTURE STRATEGY • As part of major planning, management and development proposals, incorporate Aboriginal heritage, including site protection and management, native title issues relating to heritage and monitoring of approvals or agreements relating to the Aboriginal Heritage Act. (AAD, LG, MfP)

• Promote the preparation of heritage inventories in town planning schemes to maximise the protection of heritage places. (LG, MfP)

• Actively promote and facilitate the conservation of the regionally significant cultural heritage of the region including the Burt and Hannan Street precincts and the Gwalia townsite. (HCWA, LG)

TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION STRATEGY • Prepare an Integrated Conservation Plan based on: • Protecting, consolidating, enhancing and expanding reserves in the conservation estate to achieve biological representation of natural systems, associated wildlife and genetic diversity. • Inclusion (where possible) of freehold and leasehold enclaves (where private or leasehold land is surrounded by or adjacent to conservation reserves) in the conservation estate by purchase, exchange or joint management arrangements. • Linking existing and proposed regional reserves through other public land and private land to provide ecological linkages and public access. • Protection of regionally important landscapes and important environmental systems in freehold land by appropriate zoning or policy controls. • Management of coastal areas from Cape Arid to Ravensthorpe and further west against the threat of the loss of biodiversity that could be caused by the further spread of dieback in coastal areas. • Preparation of an inventory of important remnant native vegetation in the Esperance sub-region, especially along river corridors, and nomination of mechanisms whereby these remnants can be protected through clearing controls on subdivision, acquisition for reserves or voluntary agreements with landowners. • Provision of recreation and tourist areas which are compatible with conservation and landscape protection. • Recognition of the nationally and internationally significant Nullarbor karst landscape. • Development of interpretive centres at the Nullarbor Plain, Recherche Archipelago, Goldfields Woodlands and Salt Lakes. • Promotion of ecotourism opportunities. (CALM, MfP, AgWA, LG, DEP, WATC, GTA, ERTA)

x SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

• Prepare landscape management guidelines to identify and preserve the landscape values of the region and require new developments such as housing, industry or mining to be in harmony with existing landscapes. (MfP, CALM)

• Prepare a strategy to identify and protect wetlands and salt lakes based on geomorphic and ecological systems and address the management issues relating to the habitat. (WRC, CALM, LG, DEP)

• Prepare a strategy to protect water catchment areas, particularly potable water from the groundwater reserves around Menzies, Leonora and Laverton. (WRC, WC, CALM, LG, DEP)

• Formulate planning and management measures to reduce fire risk and manage wildfires on unallocated Crown land. (DOLA/CALM, FES)

• Identify and provide an appropriate site/s for landfill of a Class 3 and 4 category for waste management. (DEP, LG, MfP, DME)

COASTAL AND MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION STRATEGY • Initiate the implementation of recommendations from the Report of the Marine Parks and Reserves Selection Working Group (Wilson, 1994) regarding the following: • The waters of the Recherche Archipelago. • The waters adjacent to the Stokes National Park. • The waters adjacent to the Fitzgerald Biosphere Reserve and Twilight Cove. (SCMG/CALM/FWA, GEDC, MfP, LG) • Initiate the implementation of recommendations from the South Coast Terrestrial and Marine Reserves Integration Study regarding the following: • The waters adjacent to the Fitzgerald Biosphere reserve. • The waters between Israelite Bay and Point Culver. (SCMG/CALM/FWA, GEDC, MfP, LG) • Prepare a regional coastal management plan which: • Focuses on the Esperance area, Hopetoun and other nodes of development. • Provides an integrated planning approach to coastal areas. (SCMG/MfP/CALM, LG, DEP)

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY

Mineral Resources and Basic Raw Materials Strategy

• Prepare a mineral resource inventory for the region in order to clarify what land is available for future townsite expansion by: • Examining the potential of identified resource areas particularly in the Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Menzies, Leonora, Laverton, Coolgardie, Kambalda, Norseman and Ravensthorpe townsites. • Clearly defining areas with resource potential, identified priority mining tenements and time lines for development to facilitate decisions on future developments and rehabilitation requirements. (DME, CME, MfP, DOLA, DRD, DEP, LG, KB-CCI)

xi SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

Industrial Development

• Identify general/light industry sites and buffers adjacent to the townsites or within/ adjacent to major industrial estates as part of structure planning and town planning scheme reviews. (LG/LandCorp, DRD, DME, MfP, GERPCC, DOLA, KB-CCI)

• Carry out a study to evaluate suitable sites for strategic industrial development in close proximity to the Esperance port. (MfP/LG, DRD, LandCorp)

• Promote and facilitate the development of strategic industry at the Mungari Industrial Park. (DRD/LandCorp, GEDC, LG, MfP)

Agriculture Strategy • Prepare a detailed land use plan for the Esperance sub-region outlining: • Planning units based on a range of physical and land use characteristics. • Planning and management guidelines to help landowners, government agencies and decision-makers when considering changes to land use and undertaking further detailed planning activities. (MfP, WRC, AgWA, LG) • Develop landcare plans for the Esperance sub-region based on: • Planning and management for the rehabilitation of salt-affected areas. • Incorporation of strategic revegetation and best practice processes. (AgWA, CALM, LG, SCRIPT)

• Prepare an agricultural development strategy for the Esperance sub-region to: • Promote the diversification of agriculture into other intensive uses (e.g. olives, seed potatoes, floriculture and farm forestry). • Promote research and trials of alternative farming methods. • Examine the potential for water harvesting. • Encourage best practice management. (AgWA, LG, CALM, WRC, GEDC)

Pastoral Strategy • Assess and implement where appropriate the recommended actions within the National Principles and Guidelines for Rangeland Management. (PB/PGA/AgWA/CALM/DEP)

• Formulate and introduce a strategy based on the National Principles and Guidelines for Rangeland Management to: • Support and promote government initiatives such as business and industry development grants. • Seek additional funding support from government through the National Landcare Program. • Provide support for pastoralists in developing comprehensive station management and business plans. • Identify and fund regional priorities for fencing which conforms with regional land use and conservation objectives for domestic, native and feral animals. • Promote management for conservation and other integrated land management activities. • Provide for the diversification of the pastoral industry. (AgWA, CALM, PB, PGA)

Forestry • Identify areas with potential and promote the benefits of timber plantations and agroforestry to the rural community. (SEFF/AgWA, CALM)

• Facilitate the development of speciality timber industries based on sustainable utilisation of natural resources. (CALM, GEDC, PB)

xii SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

Fishing and Aquaculture Strategyand Aquaculture Strategy • Prepare a strategy for the development of aquaculture in inland/desert saline waters which addresses the following: • Availability of project resource and funding. • The allocation of land and appropriate zoning for inland aquaculture development, including the ability of farms to be subdivided to provide an economic opportunity for development. • Environmental management, including the disposal of saltwater. • Access to seedstock, food and markets. • Provision of appropriate infrastructure such as power. (FWA, DEP, AgWA, GEDC, CALM, LG)

• Evaluate the development of aquaculture along the south coast with consideration of the following: • Environmental management. • Allocation of appropriate sites with minimal conflict between the various users. • Economic viability. • Protection of the visual amenity of the Esperance coastal scenery. (FWA, CALM, DEP, AgWA, LG) • Promote the coordination and integration of government processes and mechanisms for the consideration and development of aquaculture projects. (FWA, CALM, DEP, LG)

Tourism and Recreation Strategyand Recreation Strategy

• Prepare a coordinated tourism strategy for the Goldfields Region to: • Identify future tourism development needs. • Identify appropriate locations for tourist facilities in areas with tourism potential. • Provide opportunities for nature-based tourism. • Promote the location and design of facilities which minimise adverse impacts on the landscape and surrounding uses. • Make provision for appropriate land use and infrastructure. (GTA, WATC, GEDC, MfP, LG, KB-CCI)

• Identify suitable sites for the development of tourism and recreation infrastructure and development. (LG, MfP)

• Examine the Port of Esperance’s capacity to accommodate cruise ships, and undertake a cost/benefit analysis of infrastructure requirements. (Transport, ERTA, EspPA)

• Investigate Middle Island as a potential site for day-use ecotourism activities. (WATC, CALM, ERTA, EspPA)

• Identify the potential for development of ecotourism museums throughout the region on sites with ecotourism significance similar to those that have been developed in the South-West Region. (GTA/ERTA/WATC, ONT)

• Prepare a development and management strategy for the Gwalia townsite to: • Provide for tourist facilities. • Ensure ongoing management. • Preserve its heritage. (WATC/LG, GTA, GEDC)

• Maintain existing roads and develop additional tourist routes in the region. (WATC, MRWA, LG)

xiii SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

• Investigate the setting up of a regional interpretative display at the Kalgoorlie Airport and at the Kalgoorlie- Boulder Railway Station. (GTA, WATC)

• Develop Wilson Street as a feature promenade from the Railway Station to Hannan Street. (LG, GTA, WATC)

• Address gaps in product provision including accommodation facilities for a variety of budgets, farm or station-stay and other rural attractions. Package existing product to provide an overall tourism experience, adventure and ecotourism attractions, and conference facilities. (WATC, ERTA, GETA)

• Promote and encourage Aboriginal involvement in tourism initiatives. (WATC, GTA, GEDC, LG)

• Produce a tourism implementation strategy that identifies key development issues and achievable outcomes. (WATC, ERTA, GTA, GEDC, LG)

Regional Enterprise Development Strategy

• Initiate strategies across government and industry which will encourage Aboriginal individuals and communities to participate in and achieve economic and social benefit from development of the region, including: • Involvement in industry related vocational training (such as ranger training and rangelands management), through a combination of formal and on-the-job training. • Involvement in ecotourism as a way of allowing traditional skills to be utilised. • Encouragement and training for small business enterprises for passing tourists near Aboriginal communities. • Involvement in cottage type industries such as timber projects. (GEDC, CALM, Curtin, Community/Industry alliances, LG, KB-CCI)

• Identify suitable sites for the development of future regional enterprise initiatives. (LG, MfP, GEDC)

REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY

Water and Wastewater Strategy

• Improve to community standards the water quality at Leonora, Laverton and Menzies by reducing the high concentration of nitrates and other trace elements when the schemes are upgraded. (WC, OWR)

• Implement strategies to reduce water usage and re-use wastewater for areas with limited potable water. (OWR, WRC, WC, LG)

• Identify and provide an alternative and reliable water supply option for Kalgoorlie-Boulder. (OWR, DRD, LG, KB-CCI)

• Devise regional management plans for water resources outside the Kalgoorlie-Boulder area. (WRC, WC)

• Examine mechanisms to introduce more competition into the water market in the Goldfields-Esperance Region. (OWR)

• Investigate individual water supply options for strategic locations within the region. (OWR, WC)

• Provide incentives for private producers to provide a dual supply for water. (OWR).

• Investigate options for a public water supply at Eucla. (OWR)

xiv SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

Power and Energy • Investigate alternative energy options for potential future use in remote areas and review feasibility figures to determine more cost-effective ways to introduce alternative energy sources. (OE)

• Investigate the co-location of a gas pipeline if and when a water pipeline is constructed between Kalgoorlie- Boulder and Esperance, to minimise the cost of and disruption associated with construction. (OE, Private sector)

• Investigate power supply options for strategic locations within the region. (OE)

• Provide opportunities for private producers to compete as suppliers of power. (OE)

• Prepare a 10-year strategy to: • Determine how electricity and gas infrastructure can be upgraded to meet future demands. • Consider all feasible options for energy supply to regional centres and options for a more equitable energy supply. (OE, WP)

Roads Strategy • Implement the recommendations of the Goldfields-Esperance Regional Transport Strategy, when completed, Roads 2020 Strategies and the Transform WA Program. (MRWA, Transport, GEDC, LG, KB-CCI)

• Examine the issue of access for Aboriginal communities, particularly in relation to the possible future high level of road activity generated by mining companies. (MRWA, Transport, GEDC, Aboriginal communities)

Rail Strategy • Review existing track infrastructure to enable it to handle heavy haulage of products from existing and future mining activities. (Transport, Westrail)

• Evaluate the impact of the sale of Westrail Freight Services on the region. (GEDC, Transport, KB-CCI)

• Upgrade the Kalgoorlie-Esperance rail link. (Transport, Westrail)

• Instigate a study to review regional growth and investigate the railway between Leonora-Leinster-Mt Keith- Newman. (GEDC, Transport, PDC, DRD, MfP)

• Investigate a rail connection from Leonora to Laverton. (Transport, Westrail, Anaconda Nickel, CME, DRD)

• Re-establish motor-rail facilities at Kalgoorlie, to facilitate rail-drive tourism. (Transport, Westrail, GTA, WATC)

Air Transport Strategy • Undertake a study to identify a suitable alternative site for Kalgoorlie-Boulder regional airport. (LG/Transport, KB-CCI)

• Examine the level of current and future use of airstrips in the region to prioritise airstrip upgrading to address: • All-weather availability of Regular Passenger Transport airports. • Re-sealing and possibly re-sheeting of the most frequently used airstrips within 5 to 10 years. • Ensure suitable lighting is installed at all airstrips. • Maintenance of airstrips along the Eyre Highway on the Nullarbor Plain. (Transport, WATC, GEDC)

• Improve the airstrips at Ravensthorpe, Hopetoun and Norseman as a priority, to improve Royal Flying Doctor Service access. (Transport)

xv SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

Ports Strategy • Assess the need for improved loading and storage infrastructure at the Port of Esperance to increase efficiency and cater for increased demand. (EspPA, GEDC)

• Develop longer term plans for the possible expansion of berthing facilities and increased channel capabilities at the Port of Esperance. (EspPA, LG, MfP, Transport, GEDC)

• Complete the upgrading of Esperance port facilities and associated service corridor, as well as road and rail transport links to the Goldfields. (Transport, LG, MfP, Westrail, MRWA, EspPA, GEDC)

• Evaluate the need for future port facilities, through the Southern Cross-Esperance Regional Minerals Province Study. (DRD/GEDC/Transport, EspPA, DME, MfP, DEP, CALM, LG)

Telecommunications • Establish telecentres at Leinster and Laverton to provide a range of Information Technology and Telecommunications resources for public use, plus training courses, Help Line support and tele-health facilities. (DOCAT, GEDC)

• Facilitate the provision of a comprehensive telecommunications system (including a mobile telephone system and high speed broad band data transmission) to cover all the towns, mining camps, pastoral and Aboriginal communities and principal highways of the region. (GEDC, Commonwealth Government’s Regional Telecommunications Program, local mining companies, LG, Commonwealth and State regional development programs)

Waste Management and Contaminated Sites • Establish a Regional Waste Management Council. (LG, DEP, GEDC)

• Develop a Regional Waste Management Plan, including the development of a Regional Waste Management Coordinator’s position per the Waste Management and Recycling Fund. (LG, DEP, GEDC)

KALGOORLIE-BOULDER STRUCTURE PLAN • Complete the housing strategy for the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. (CK-B)

• Review the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Land Release Plan on a regular basis. (MfP, LRTF)

• Prepare an urban design study for the Kalgoorlie Town Centre. (CK-B, MfP)

• Implement the streetscape plan for Hannan and Burt Street to improve the visual attractiveness of the streetscape for residents and tourists. (CK-B, MfP)

• Undertake a study to identify a site for transient Aboriginal accommodation. (CK-B/AAD)

• Undertake a floodway study focusing on the Gribble Creek catchment (CK-B, WRC).

• Undertake a study to determine boundary and prepare a Special Policy Area to complement the Safety Exclusion Zone. (KCGM, CK-B, DME)

• Prepare a structure plan for the Parkeston industrial area. (CK-B, MfP, DOLA, Landowners, ASR)

• Undertake a study to identify a suitable alternative site for a Kalgoorlie regional airport. (CK-B/Transport, DME, KB-CCI)

• Review the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder boundary as part of the TPS process. (CK-B)

• Undertake a study to identify a suitable site for a major regional prison. (MOJ, MfP)

• Undertake a strategy to consolidate landholdings around Curtin University of Technology Kalgoorlie Campus to facilitate the development of student housing and establish additional facilities at the university. (Curtin, ED, GEDC, KB-CCI)

xvi SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS

ESPERANCE STRUCTURE PLAN • Prepare a land development program for Esperance for land use supply and coordination of physical and human service infrastructure for a five-year period. (MfP, LG, GEDC)

• Following identification of an appropriate site through the Regional Power Procurement Process, the site should be recognised in the Esperance Town Planning Scheme. (OE, LG, MfP)

• Identify and confirm the suitability of a site for the development of a water desalination plant to service the Goldfields-Esperance region. (OWR, Proponent, WRC, LG, DEP)

IMPLEMENTING THE STRATEGY • Establish a locally based Goldfields-Esperance Region Planning Coordinating Committee to progress implementation of the Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning Strategy. (WAPC/MfP, GEDC, LG, CME, KB-CCI)

• Prioritise recommendations for implementation. (GERPCC)

• Review the Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning Strategy every five years. (WAPC/MfP)

• Publish annual updates on the status of recommendations from the Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning Strategy. (WAPC/MfP)

• Encourage the early establishment of an office of the Ministry for Planning in Kalgoorlie-Boulder to assist with implementation of the strategy. (MfP)

• Assist local government in the establishment of a shared town planner scheme within the region. (LG, MfP, DOCAT)

• Investigate the establishment of a local government planners’ professional forum for the region. (LG)

xvii xviii Part 1

PART 1.BACKGROUND BACKGROUND 1 The Goldfields-Esperance “ Regional Planning Strategy is one of a number of regional plans which have been prepared in Western Australia. ” PART 1 – BACKGROUND

1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 THE GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE REGION The first region plan in the State was prepared in 1955 by G Stephenson and JA Hepburn for The Goldfields-Esperance Region is located in the Perth Metropolitan Region. This led to the the south-eastern corner of Western Australia formulation of the statutory based and the WAPC boundary for the region Metropolitan Region Scheme in the early incorporates nine local government areas: the 1960s. Stephenson and Hepburn also identified City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the Shires of other regions within the State, and discussed the reasons for Coolgardie, Dundas, Esperance, Laverton, Leonora, Menzies, planning at the regional level. Ngaanyatjarraku and Ravensthorpe. It is bounded geographically by the Sandy and Gibson Deserts to the north, the Wheatbelt to In 1985 the State Planning Commission was created and assumed the west, the Great Australian Bight to the south, and the South responsibility for planning at the state level. Ten regions were Australian and Northern Territory borders to the east. The identified for the State based on ward boundaries of the Country 771,276 square kilometres of land area makes the region more Shire Councils Association of WA (Inc). than twice the size of Victoria and represents approximately a quarter of the State’s total area. The Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) was established in 1995 (to replace the State Planning Commission), 1.2 THE NEED FOR THE STRATEGY as a broadly based body with responsibilities to advise government on land use planning throughout the State, to The State Government supports regionalisation and prepare plans and coordinate land development and decentralisation in Western Australia. Policies have been directed infrastructure. The WAPC has a responsibility to provide a towards accelerating growth based on appropriate use of extensive framework for long-term land use planning within which natural resources available within the regions and the desirability government can act and the community participate. The WAPC is of country areas as places to live. These trends are acknowledged committed to strategic regional planning in country areas, and the as integral factors in future land use planning activities by the introduction of statutory region schemes where appropriate. The State Planning Strategy (1997). Economic and urban development Western Australian Planning Commission Act, 1985 defined the creates the need for change, which can often result in conflict current regional boundaries (Figure 1). between land uses and contention over the philosophy for management of natural resources. Regional land use planning can provide a link between State, regional and local planning based on a balance of environmental, social, cultural and economic considerations.

The Goldfields-Esperance Region can be divided into three sub- regions: the Goldfields, Nullarbor and the Esperance sub-regions. All have different physical, social and economic characteristics.

2 PART 1 – BACKGROUND

0 100 200 300 Kilometres 1 Timor Sea Produced by Project Mapping Section Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig1.npj

Local Government Boundary Data supplied by Department of Land and Administration, W.A. Wyndham

LEGEND Kununurra

Study Area

Derby KIMBERLEY REGION Planning Region Boundary Broome Halls Creek Local Government Boundary Fitzroy Crossing

Port Hedland Karratha

Exmouth Telfer PILBARA REGION

Paraburdoo Newman

GASCOYNE REGION Carnarvon NGAANYATJARRAKU

Denham MID - WEST REGION Warburton

Wiluna Meekatharra Mt. Keith

Indian Kalbarri Mt Magnet Leinster LAVERTON LEONORA Geraldton Leonora Laverton

GOLDFIELDS - ESPERANCE REGION Menzies MENZIES

Kalgoorlie Coolgardie KALGOORLIE - BOULDER Ocean Kambalda Northam COOLGARDIE Eucla Perth PERTH REGION WHEATBELT REGION DUNDAS Mandurah Norseman

PEEL REGION Narrogin Bunbury ESPERANCE Ravensthorpe Busselton RAVENSTHORPE Esperance

SOUTH - WEST REGION GREAT SOUTHERN REGION Albany

Southern Ocean

Figure 1: Study Area

3 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

The Goldfields sub-region is mineral resource not the place of this study to validate any land based and further economic and population claim, future plans for the region will need to growth will depend on the efficient winning of recognise these claims and monitor their minerals. Stable world commodity prices will resolution, legal and/or otherwise. Ongoing influence its economic security and consultation with Aboriginal communities will development prospects. In recent times, be required regarding protection and upward trends in the production from the management of Aboriginal heritage sites as nickel and gold sectors have steered the region part of proposed conservation and to its current position of economic strength. More than 2.65 development projects. billion dollars in income are derived annually in the region from mining and production including gold, nickel, cobalt, copper, 1.3 MAJOR PLANNING ISSUES platinum, silver and palladium (DME Statistics Digest, 1998-99). Key issues to be addressed in the Strategy are: There are great opportunities to further develop the region as a Social major economic powerhouse in the short/medium and long • Land supply in the major settlements for urban, commercial terms. In the short to medium-term the downstream processing and industrial purposes. of minerals and the export of goods and services related to the mining industry are expected to increase. In the longer term there • The impact native title rights will have on land use and will be increased opportunities for business not directly involved management. with the mining industry. The recent completion of the gas pipeline and proposed improvements in transport infrastructure • Land use planning for Aboriginal settlements with an links with adjacent regions, such as the Pilbara and the Mid-West, emphasis on infrastructure coordination, such as housing, will prompt increased activity and trade. health, community facilities and transient accommodation.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder is expected to develop as the transport hub for • The need for future social infrastructure requirements such as the north and east of the State, with its strategic position and future educational and health facilities. existing road/rail infrastructure. Physical In the Esperance sub-region the agriculture sector has diversified • Protection and management of water resources and into new crops such as tree production, and this industry has the wastewater management. potential to grow substantially. Similarly, the fishing industry may • Management of environmental issues, including land find new opportunities in aquaculture, such as abalone and tuna degradation, coastal protection, biodiversity, protection of farming. remnant vegetation and establishment of a comprehensive For the region as a whole, an increase in tourism is expected, and representative conservation reserve system. associated with the region’s history/heritage, mining, business • Recognition and protection of areas of international and conferences, natural attributes, remoteness and the appeal of the national significance, such as the National Parks of the south southern coastal scenery. coast and the Nullarbor karst1 system. With growth in the region’s economy and population, appropriate • Management of the effects of increased economic activity infrastructure and services are needed to sustain this growth and such as air pollution, vibration, dust and noise on the amenity maximise the benefits to the region. of residential areas. The issue of conservation is assuming greater importance in the Economic region. Land uses need to be carefully planned and managed to • The effects of fly-in/fly-out on the potential for economic minimise their impacts on the natural environment. development in the region as well as on policies for The region has a sizeable Aboriginal population with close decentralisation and social impacts. traditional ties to the land. A considerable amount of land outside the developed towns is subject to native title claims. Although it is

1 Karst is formed by the percolation of water through limestone sinkholes and the subsequent dissolution of minerals. The process occurs over a long period and is closely linked to the occurrence and distribution of rare and internationally significant species of subterranean fauna. The karst landscapes also have development implications as their inherent properties constrain engineering works and waste disposal.

4 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

• The effects of the Goldfields gas pipeline on projected growth The purpose of the Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning in the region both for commercial and private purposes. Strategy is to:

• The establishment of improved transport infrastructure • Provide a framework for decision-making which will resolve within the region and to adjacent regions, including the siting land use conflicts. and development of an intermodal transfer facility. • Provide regional guidance for the use of land which addresses • The need for improved tourism and retailing services, issues of competing land uses and economic, social and particularly in Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Esperance. environmental objectives.

• Availability of regional infrastructure (water, power, • Ensure provision of service infrastructure requirements such transport, telecommunications) for economic and as water, sewerage, power, roads, ports, wastewater population growth in the region. management and basic raw materials.

• Opportunities for diversification of the economy, such as • Plan for residential, commercial and industrial land tourism, forestry and aquaculture. requirements.

1.4 PURPOSE OF THE STRATEGY • Reduce ad hoc and duplicated decision-making and activity by coordinating action by government agencies, private sector The Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning Strategy will organisations and community groups. provide an integrated decision-making approach to facilitate the sustainable development of the region, providing a balance • Assist in the ongoing formulation of policy on land use and between the social, physical and economic components of the development at different levels of government. region. • Assist local government in preparing and implementing local A regional planning strategy should form the basis for cooperative strategies, schemes and other local planning and development action to be taken by State Government and local governments on matters. how land use should be allocated. An important role of planning • Identify and provide a framework to protect land with high is to coordinate the provision of land supply for residential, conservation value and land for public purposes. commercial and industrial purposes. • Promote a regional identity.

• Provide guidelines to improve town amenity.

INTEGRATED REGIONAL PLANNING PROCESS

THE ENVIRONMENT Water, Air and Land, Conservation, Resource Use

STATE PLANNING STRATEGY THE ECONOMY THE PEOPLE Jobs, Income, Homes, Access, Resource Development, Sense of Community Efficiency

5 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

The report is divided into three parts. The study included a research and data collection phase to provide the information Part 1 provides a brief introduction to the required to formulate the Strategy which forms Strategy and the planning context of the the planning phase of the cycle. Upon the Goldfields-Esperance Region. A planning completion and adoption of the Strategy the analysis of the region’s physical, social and recommendations contained therein will form economic activities will follow, including the basis for the implementation phase. The trends and planning implications. The purpose Strategy will be reviewed after five years. of this section is to provide a snapshot of the region in terms of its historical planning and development and determine future 1.6 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION requirements for the strategic policy framework. In 1997, in order to assist the Western Australian Planning Part 2 addresses the issues and presents a balanced and integrated Commission to understand the community’s aspirations, eight strategy which will encourage social and economic growth in the community workshops were held in centres throughout the region region consistent with responsible management of the natural (Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Coolgardie, Esperance, Ravensthorpe, environment. An overall vision statement and broad principles Leonora, Laverton, Norseman and Kambalda). The workshops will provide the foundation for the Strategy. The principles set out were publicised through newspaper advertisements, media in the State Planning Strategy will be used as the basis for interviews and through representatives of the Steering Committee, developing the strategies for the Goldfields-Esperance Region. A Working Group and circulation list. Although actual numbers policy framework will include appropriate objectives, guidelines, attending the workshops were small, the input received was very strategies and recommendations for settlement planning and good. Many of the participants were from State/local government expansion, heritage management and infrastructure or community representatives. The workshops were conducted by requirements, the natural environment and resource and an independent facilitator (Jane Manning), and the process used industrial development. A regional land use plan will set out the involved: visioning, asking participants what the regional strategy predominant use of land, embracing multiple use concepts should include, prioritising issues and then examining how the top (where appropriate) which will allow local decision-makers a priorities could be achieved. The proceedings of the community degree of flexibility in implementation. Structure plans will be workshops highlight the key issues identified2. prepared for the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the Town of Esperance as a component of the Strategy. The land uses displayed A consultant was employed to undertake consultation with key in the structure plans will be complementary to the Strategy and Aboriginal groups in the region to assist the Western Australian current local approved initiatives, such as the town planning Planning Commission to understand Aboriginal heritage, land use schemes, and will have a 25-year time frame. and infrastructure issues. The outcomes of the Aboriginal Communities Consultation Report are summarised at Appendix 3. Part 3 presents means of implementing the regional strategy, which will involve many Commonwealth and State Government The draft strategy was released for a three month public review agencies, local government, the private sector, community groups period from May to August 1999, during which 22 submissions and individuals. were received from a range of individuals, community groups, local government and government agencies. The submissions 1.5 STUDY PROCESS raised no major issues and the minor corrections have been incorporated into this final strategy. The planning process is cyclical, ongoing and involves four phases: • Research, data collection and public consultation 1.7 STUDY MANAGEMENT • Planning • Implementation The Draft Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning Strategy was •Review prepared by a Study Team under the guidance and direction of both a Steering Committee and a Technical Working Group which report to the Western Australian Planning Commission.

2 Proceedings of the public workshops are available from the Ministry for Planning.

6 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

The Steering Committee has undertaken the following functions: A Technical Working Group provides the technical support for • Overseen the formulation of the regional strategy. the Steering Committee and comprises the following government and community representatives: • Overseen the synthesis of the various studies undertaken in the region. • Mike Allen – Chairman (Ministry for Planning) • Overseen the preparation of specific sub-studies associated • Vicki Bull/Bill Mason/Ray Ciantar (Goldfields-Esperance with the regional strategy. Development Commission) • Identified issues and initiatives for consideration. • Jacquie Stone/Rob Hutchison (City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder) • Endorsed a draft strategy which will facilitate development • Mick Kahler (Shire of Esperance) while ensuring that economic, social, tourism and • Eddie Gilbert/Cr Heather Campbell (Shire of Dundas) – resigned environmental objectives are achieved. • Cr Kevin Pusey (Shire of Menzies) • Made recommendations concerning future infrastructure • Don Challis (Department of Transport) and servicing requirements. • Brett Belstead/Sue Milthorpe (Main Roads WA) The intention in creating the Steering Committee and Technical • Ian Kealley/Klaus Tiedemann (Department of Conservation Working Group was to ensure local representation on issues and and Land Management) to coordinate the various initiatives planned for the region, • Adrian Vlok/Trevor Naughton (Department of Environmental thereby facilitating a whole government approach using the one Protection) planning process. • Mary Durack (Department of Resources Development) The Steering Committee consists of: • John Silla/Peter McNally (Department of Land Administration) • Gary Prattley – Chairman (Ministry for Planning) • Ron Caunce (Water and Rivers Commission) • Paul Frewer – Chairman (until June 1998) (Ministry for • Mark Herbert/Bruce Abraham (Water Corporation of WA) Planning) • John Thurtell/John Bridge (Aboriginal Affairs Department) • Colin Purcell/Ray Ciantar/Rob Walster (Goldfields-Esperance • Chris Kojan (Department of Minerals and Energy) Development Commission) • Matt Daly (Chamber of Minerals and Energy) • Cr Karen McGay (City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder) • Hugh Gallagher (Chamber of Commerce and Industry) • Ellen Gude/Barry Sponberg (Shire of Esperance) • Tom Hopkins/Terry McVeigh/Shane Webber (Western Australian • Cr Sandra Trenowden/Cr Billie Ingham (Shire of Coolgardie) Tourism Commission) • Cr Heather Campbell (Shire of Dundas) – resigned • Paul Kelly (Office of Water Regulation) • Peter Durrant/Lance Hurst (Northern Goldfields representatives) • Cyril Linto (Agriculture WA) • Barry Kingston (Kalgoorlie-Boulder Chamber of Commerce) • Peter Rixson (Office of Energy) • Ian Kealley (Department of Conservation and Land Management) • Ziggy Wilk (Western Power) • Matt Daly/Rod Jones/David McGowan (Chamber of Minerals and Energy) • Mike Allen (Ministry for Planning)

7 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

A Study Team undertakes the preparation of data available from the 1991 Australian Bureau work for consideration by the Technical of Statistics (ABS). As a complement to the Working Group and Steering Committee and Goldfields Regional Profile the GEDC produced comprises the following representatives: the South East Coast Regional Profile (1994) • Cane Spaseski/Suzanne Woolhouse/ Mersina covering the Shires of Esperance and Robinson/ Stewart Darby/Gerard Chaperon/ Ravensthorpe. The format for the report is the Imre Szito/Marie Ward (Ministry for same as for the two Goldfields Regional Profiles. Planning) Both of these reports were updated and republished in 1996. • Vicki Bull/Ray Ciantar/Bill Mason (Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission) Together, these three regional profiles provide a solid foundation • Jacquie Stone/Kathy Bonus/Rob Hutchison/Victoria Maxwell for strategic and structure planning for the Goldfields-Esperance (City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder) Region. • Ellen Gude/Mick Kahler/Barry Sponberg (Shire of Esperance) The Northern Goldfields Mineral Province Study (1996) 2.0 PLANNING CONTEXT coordinated by DRD covers the area from Leonora to Wiluna (which is outside the study area) and was nominally focused on 2.1 REGIONAL PLANNING IN THE REGION identifying gaps in infrastructure that would impede exploration (PAST INITIATIVES) and development. It also examined the physical, social, economic In October 1989, the Department of Planning and Urban and structural characteristics/prospects for the region. Development (DPUD) published the Goldfields Planning and The Goldfields-Esperance Economic Development Strategy (1996) Development Study – Regional Profile which includes all of the produced by the GEDC identifies the Commission’s objectives in current study area except the Shire of Esperance and the Shire of relation to economic development, the issues affecting the region Ngaanyatjarraku. The regional profile was divided into three and appropriate strategies for implementation. This strategy is sections. The first section dealt with the history and physical designed to be used in conjunction with the Goldfields-Esperance features of the region, and provided a comprehensive overview of Economic Perspective (1996) and Goldfields-Esperance People and its natural characteristics, including an assessment of land use and Population (1996) which were produced by the GEDC and the environment. The section was supplemented by good-quality Department of Commerce and Trade. The WA 2029 Study mapping of the region for geology, soils, vegetation and major commissioned by the Department of Commerce and Trade was land use. The second part of the regional profile described the published as 12 papers in 1996, including a review of growth social characteristics of the region. It provides a comprehensive set scenarios in the Goldfields-Esperance Region. of statistics of population, population growth, employment, age/sex profiles, housing availability, crime statistics, health The Department of Conservation and Land Management statistics, educational statistics and a whole range of social data (CALM) has also prepared the Regional Management Plan 1994- normally required for strategic and structure planning. The third 2004: Goldfields Region (1994) which documents issues of section on economic activity provided a comprehensive conservation and land management in the Goldfields and breakdown of the infrastructure, mining activities, farming and indicates strategies for their management. The plan makes pastoral activities, manufacturing, commercial and financial recommendations for the improvement of the conservation services and tourism. The appendices to the report provided a reserve system in the Goldfields and should be used in tandem complete set of statistics on educational facilities and student with the Regional Management Plan 1992 – 2002: South Coast enrolments for the region. Region (1991) which deals with the southern section of the Strategy study area. These plans are statutory documents under In June 1994 the Goldfields Regional Profile, produced by the the Conservation and Land Management Act 1985. Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission (GEDC) updated the 1989 profile by DPUD. The first section on the In addition to the management plan, considerable work has been physical characteristics of the region was virtually identical but done for the south coast which could be used as the basis for a statistics for the social and economic sections were updated using management strategy for the coastal areas. This work includes: • The Goldfields Planning and Development Strategy – The South West Coast of WA. Working Paper Feb 1989. Allen Carman- Brown. Published by State Planning Commission.

8 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

• Esperance Eastern Coast Planning and Management Report. 2.2 COMMONWEALTH AND STATE GOVERNMENT Department of Conservation and Environment. Bulletin 173. POLICIES (MAJOR POLICIES INFLUENCING June 1984. PLANNING) • Esperance District Coastal Management Plan. Department of Conservation and Environment. Report 11. March 1983. 2.2.1 The Commonwealth Government Roads 2020 – Regional Road Development Strategy Goldfields- Recent changes to Commonwealth Government policy have Esperance (1997) reviews road requirements to 2020 in the context reduced the programs which formerly assisted the redevelopment of expected/projected economic/population growth of the region, of urban areas. However, some environmental programs with and the region in the context of the State, including the inland port relevance to the Goldfields-Esperance Region such as the Natural scenario. It provides a well-researched contextual background. Heritage Trust, Coastcare Program and Ocean Rescue 2000 Program are still operating. Other current programs include the Transform WA – is a major road development initiative launched Aboriginal Housing Program. by the State Government in May 1998. The program involves major road upgrades in the Goldfields-Esperance Region. In addition to these programs are the international and national strategies to which the Commonwealth Government is a signatory The Goldfields-Esperance Regional Transport Strategy (2000) or has developed. These include: Montreal Protocol, Agenda 21, prepared by the Department of Transport, will generally seek to National Strategy for Biodiversity, Ramsar and ANCA Wetlands. draw together all current and recent studies on transport issues.

The GHD Regional Infrastructure Audit (1998) also provided a 2.2.2 The State Government snapshot of existing infrastructure within the region, and The State Government through its State Planning Strategy provided an outlook for infrastructure requirements for the adopted a framework for implementing policy through the future of the region. various programs of government agencies. This Strategy is part of the Western Australian Planning Commission’s work program. Recent related documents include Goldfields-Esperance Economic The following section summarises the existing and proposed Perspective (1999) and the Living in the Regions (1999) report, policies and plans which have a direct influence on the regional which provide additional information for the Goldfields- planning strategy. Esperance Region. The Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission has also produced a series of briefing papers on the region. These include: • Goldfields-Esperance Region and Project Briefing (1999) – a brief summary of project developments and issues in the region. • North-Eastern Goldfields Region and Project Briefing (1999) – looks at the major project developments and regional issues in the Shires of Laverton, Leonora and Ngaanyatjarrku. • South-East Region and Project Briefing (1999) – looks at the major project developments and regional issues in the Shires of Esperance and Ravensthorpe. • Summary of Energy Situation and Issues in the Goldfields- Esperance Region (1999) – examines the energy market in the region. • Summary of New and Potential Resource Projects in the Goldfields-Esperance Region (1999) – is an outline of new or planned resource projects for the region. • Summary of Infrastructure Situation and Issues in the Goldfields-Esperance Region (1999) – considers the major infrastructure projects and issues in the region.

9 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

State Planning Strategy • Land tenure for heavy industry (See Section 2.3) • Management of strategic industry areas The State Planning Strategy provides a guiding • Education and training for heavy industry framework for the coordination and management of regional planning and The Government is developing policies aimed development across the State. It promotes the at addressing each of these issues. A need for development of east-west and north-south long term planning of land and infrastructure linkages between the existing transport and for heavy industry has been identified to take industry infrastructure in Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the resource advantage of the natural resource processing opportunities spine between the Pilbara and south coast through the Goldfields. available in WA. Industrial estates are being developed at strategic locations around the State to secure appropriate land, including Regional Development Policy buffer areas, and avoid unacceptable environmental and social The State Government is committed to economic and regional impacts. development within Western Australia. Although this commitment concentrates on the promotion and development of The Environment commerce and trade, such commitments have many flow-on The protection of the environment is the responsibility of the social and economic benefits. The final Regional Development Environmental Protection Authority which has a range of ways to Policy was released in May 2000. achieve this, including formal and informal assessment and the application of conditions upon development, through to the The Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission is ability to prepare an Environmental Protection Policy (EPP). responsible for mobilising local initiatives for economic and social Currently an EPP relating to Air Quality exists for Kalgoorlie. The development to the point where this development becomes self- DEP is also responsible for coordinating the implementation of the generating. This includes support for the provision of Government’s response to the State of Environment Report (1998). infrastructure and the development of strategically important projects. The Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission has The responsibility for nature conservation rests with the prepared the Goldfields-Esperance Economic Development Strategy Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) which aims to coordinate and provide direction to economic and includes the conservation and management of Western development in the region until the year 2010. This includes Australia’s wildlife and the lands, waters and resources entrusted retaining and capitalising on the region’s competitive advantage to CALM for the benefit of present and future generations. There and harnessing its community and business leadership qualities to is a long-standing commitment to conserving the environment in generate the initiative and resources to advance the strategies. Western Australia originating in the implementation of the Conservation Through Reserves Committee recommendations Strategic Industrial Areas (1974) contained in reports for various ecosystems throughout In 1991 the then Minister for State Development announced that the State. CALM aims to develop a comprehensive, adequate and the Government had approved a policy of establishing regional representative reserve system which also protects threatened heavy industry sites based primarily at Bunbury, Geraldton, species and communities. Kalgoorlie, Northam, Karratha and Port Hedland. In 1995 the State Government released a report which provided a background A Draft Nature Conservation Strategy (1992) has been prepared by for the preparation of a State Heavy Industry Policy (SHIP). The CALM which has as its fundamental objectives: report, known as the Dover Report, identified factors considered To conserve in perpetuity the widest possible diversity of important to attracting investment to WA for new industry and indigenous landscapes, ecosystems and species (including their resource processing projects including: genetic variability) in natural habitats in Western Australia. • Land for heavy industry • Assessment for approvals procedures To establish and maintain a Statewide reserve system that is broadly representative of the State’s natural habitats and forms • Buffer areas for heavy industry a network of natural lands and waters that are sufficiently large • Infrastructure for heavy industry and appropriately located to provide a refuge for migratory and • Energy for heavy industry other species. • Incentives for heavy industry

10 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

CALM’s Regional Management Plans for the Goldfields Region In addition, the Nature Based Tourism Strategy for Western (1994-2004) and the South Coast Region (1992-2002), statutory Australia has been prepared by the Nature Based Tourism plans under the CALM Act, are part of this process. Advisory Committee, the main purpose of which is to guide the future development of Western Australia’s nature based tourism A Report of the Marine Parks and Reserves Selection Working Group industry. (1994) has been prepared and published by CALM, recommending a system of marine parks and reserves for Western The Nature Based Tourism Strategy (1997) is the result of a joint Australia. effort by the tourism industry, the WA Tourism Commission and CALM. It forms part of a broader statewide strategy to manage Other important programs which are aimed at the environment tourism in Western Australia, and complements the National include Landcare – Integrated Catchment Management Ecotourism Strategy (1994). The Nature Based Tourism Strategy Strategies, Rangelands Strategies and Rangeways. provides the framework to ensure that nature based tourism in the Goldfields-Esperance region grows in a way that is sustainable Coastal Planning as well as economically and socially beneficial. The strategy has A recent review of coastal management policy and practice in five guiding principles: Western Australia has resulted in the establishment of a new Coastal Zone Council, a standing committee reporting to the • conserving the natural environment Western Australian Planning Commission. The Council is • involving and benefiting local communities responsible for coordinating planning of the State’s coastal zone, • improving knowledge including management strategies and administering a new • providing quality products and services Coastal Zone Management Fund. A Grants Program is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and State governments. Of • fostering an effective and efficient industry particular relevance is that the Coastal Zone Council will form The Western Australian Tourism Development Strategy (1997) committees and involve people within regions when dealing with recognises eleven priority tourism development areas, two of location-specific strategies where applicable. which are the Goldfields and Esperance areas. Some of the key actions which need to be considered to ensure that tourism has The South Coast Management Group has been established to the opportunity to increase are: address the management and protection of the coast from • Address infrastructure and accommodation bottlenecks. Israelite Bay to Denmark. The local governments of Ravensthorpe, Esperance and Dundas and the State Government • Provide high quality transportation systems (air, road, rail, sea). authorities of the Ministry for Planning, CALM, Fisheries and • Develop additional visitor attractions which capitalise on Water and Rivers Commission are key members of this group. individual strengths. • Encourage the development of Aboriginal tourism The Western Australian Planning Commission’s Country Coastal businesses. Planning Policy (DC 6.1, June 1989), which has provided guidance to local governments on coastal development matters in the past, • Where Aboriginal people consider it appropriate, encourage has recently been reviewed and a discussion paper on coastal indigenous culture and art to be incorporated into the planning and development policy was released for public interpretation of the natural environment. comment. Following consideration of public submissions, the • Provide training and accreditation in service delivery. WAPC intends to replace the existing coastal policy, giving a Other important documents are the South-East Tourism Strategy greater level of guidance to coastal local governments. (1996) and the Regional Marketing Strategy for the Goldfields- Recreation and Tourism Esperance Region (2000). The People in CALM Places: Recreation and Tourism Strategy (1996-2000) has been prepared for land managed by CALM which has as its vision:

Seeking to provide world-class recreation and tourism opportunities, services and facilities for visitors to lands and waters managed by CALM while maintaining in perpetuity Western Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.

11 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

2.3 LAND USE PLANNING SYSTEM IN The principles set out below are the core of the WA (PLANNING HIERARCHY State Planning Strategy (SPS) and should guide AND STATE PLANNING future decision-making throughout government through the strategies and actions STRATEGY) for each principle. While each principle is The Western Australian Planning Commission unlikely to be met equally in each instance, the Act, 1985 Section 18(1)(b) requires the best outcome for the State’s future requires that Commission to take a lead in preparing a proposals and plans fully address each principle. planning strategy for the State as a basis for coordinating and Environmental principle: To protect and enhance the key promoting regional land use planning and land development, and natural and cultural assets of the State and deliver to all Western for guiding government departments and authorities and local Australians a high quality of life which is based on governments on those matters. environmentally sustainable principles. The land use planning system is fundamental to the achievement The pursuit of the environmental strategies will contribute to a of community goals and aspirations. However, rather than drive more sustainable future. The strategies are designed to these processes, its role is facilitative, ensuring that land use and increasingly use energy sources which have minimal impact on planning decisions improve the opportunities of the community the environment; prevent further loss in biodiversity; ensure that to fulfil goals of creating wealth, caring for the environment and air, water and soil quality are protected and where necessary building sound communities. improved; reduce consumption of materials and promote The State Planning Strategy provides a strategic guide for land recycling; promote management and protection of resources; use planning through to the year 2029 aimed at developing a protect land and seascape; preserve public access; enhance the land use planning system to help the State achieve a number of quality of life for all Western Australians; and protect the State’s key goals. These include generating wealth, conserving and cultural heritage. enhancing the environment, and building vibrant and safe communities for the enjoyment of this and subsequent generations of Western Australians.

STATE PLANNING FRAMEWORK

PLAN TIMEFRAME

STATE PLANNING 30 Years STRATEGY

STRATEGIC Would incorporate FRAMEWORK REGIONAL 30 Years supporting (Non Statutory PLANNING STRATEGY technical studies Planning) i.e. – Physical – Social – Economic STRUCTURE PLAN 10-20 Years

LAND DEVELOPMENT 5 Years PROGRAM

TOWN PLANNING 5 Years STATUTORY SCHEME PLANNING FRAMEWORK AMENDMENTS Current

12 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Community principle: To respond to social changes and provide the focus for integrated planning to enhance the future facilitate the creation of vibrant, accessible, safe and self-reliant prospects of each region. communities. The State Planning Strategy outlines the following vision for the To achieve this principle, strategies are designed to monitor the Goldfields-Esperance Region. amount and rate of population growth, respond to the changing needs of the population, improve the linkage between land use In the next three decades, the Goldfields-Esperance planning and the provision of human services, provide a range Region will continue as a major minerals extraction and of housing opportunities, build a sense of community through processing area as well as a broadacre pastoral zone. the design of accessible settlements and public facilities, The region will develop further as a tourist destination incorporate opportunities for consultation and include the based on protected coastal environments and heritage views of local communities and groups with specific needs in sites. The region will also see the rehabilitation and local and regional plans. protection of productive agricultural lands, the Economic principles: To actively assist in the creation of increasing use of energy sources with a low regional wealth, support the development of new industries and environmental impact and the development of encourage economic activity in accordance with sustainable alternative water resources to facilitate the region’s development principles. development. Kalgoorlie will continue to expand its role as an important regional road and freight centre To achieve this principle, strategies are designed to provide [transport hub], as well as a significant tourist flexibility in the planning system to meet the needs of small destination. Upgrades to the strategic freight and business, minimise delays in government approval processes, tourist road networks will also increase the importance provide for the likely growth of downstream processing industries of both Norseman and, more dramatically, Esperance as and value adding industries, make allowance for the needs of new sub-regional centres. industries and technologies and support the further development of the State’s centres of business, culture and administration.

Infrastructure principle: To facilitate strategic development by A strategic planning approach with the use of guiding principles ensuring land use, transport and public utilities are mutually and the preparation of broad strategic plans and policies will supportive. provide an appropriate context for detailed actions at a local level. The SPS also provided a regional overview of planning (Figure 2) To achieve this principle, strategies are designed to integrate and outlined a series of priority actions for the Goldfields- land use and transport planning, provide efficient freight Esperance Region, and these are listed over page. transport routes and hubs, plan for public transport and balanced travel, ensure the efficient, progressive development and servicing of land, promote the development and optimal use of strategic infrastructure, support the development of major nodal urban settlements, ensure that the provision of public utilities to country areas is based on economic and social considerations and promote public facilities as a means of assisting the creation of regional wealth and providing cultural benefits.

Regional development principle: To assist the development of regional Western Australia by taking account of the region’s special assets and accommodating the individual requirements of each region.

The State Planning Strategy identifies a broad regional vision statement and the key planning priorities for each of the State’s 10 regions, including the Goldfields-Esperance Region, which

13 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

STATE PLANNING STRATEGY PLANNING PRIORITIES APPLICABLE TO THE GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE REGION Environmental Planning Priorities

• Investigate and implement alternative mechanisms to protect landscape and natural resources. • Introduce environmental sustainability considerations into the planning process. Economic Planning Priorities

• Identify and secure strategic industrial sites throughout the State. Infrastructure Planning Priorities

• Undertake an infrastructure audit of service provision in major regional centres and identify future needs. Planning Priorities for the Regions (Goldfields-Esperance)

• Establish an office of the Ministry for Planning in Kalgoorlie. • Continue to update the Country Land Development Program for Kalgoorlie-Boulder. • Finalise Goldfields-Esperance Regional Planning Strategy • Secure a protected service corridor to the Port of Esperance • Investigate the feasibility of a new inter-modal freight facility for Kalgoorlie.

14 PART 1 – BACKGROUND LEGEND

KIMBERLEY Aboriginal Reserve Potential Strategic Industry Processing Site

PILBARA Environmental Priority Management Area (including Strategic Industry Processing Site Conservation Estate) GASCOYNE 1 MID-WEST Marine Planning Priority Area Regional Service Centre GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE WHEATBELT PERTH Productive Agricultural Areas Under High-Extreme Soil PEEL Local Service Centre Salinity Risk SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Index to Study Area Existing Strategic Combined Freight and Region Boundary Tourist Road Network/Possible Extension Existing Strategic Freight Road Network / Possible Extension

Existing Strategic Tourist Road Network

Tourist Route to be Investigated

Existing Government Railway

Possible Railway Extension

Gas Pipeline - Existing / Potential Extension

Goldfields Water Pipeline Warburton

Strategic Transport Gateway & Hub

Airport

All Weather Air Strip Leinster Public Port

Laverton Leonora

Menzies

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Coolgardie Kambalda Eucla

Norseman Balladonia

Ravensthorpe Esperance

Hopetoun N Fitzgerald River World Biosphere Reserve 0 50 100 150

Kilometres Ocean Southern Produced by Project Mapping Section Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig2.npj

Figure 2: State Planning Strategy (1997) Map 20 – Goldfields-Esperance Region

15 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

3.0 PLANNING ANALYSIS Population growth has also been determined by influences from within the region, such as This part summarises the region’s the migration patterns of the population, demographic patterns, regional land use, lifestyle choices, Aboriginal issues (such as economy and infrastructure requirements and native title claims and limitation on land presents emerging trends and implications. development in some areas), workplace This information is used as the basis for practices of the mining companies in the developing the regional strategy. region (fly-in/fly-out), and the attractiveness and serviceability of the towns. In the past 15 years the population 3.1 DEMOGRAPHIC CONSIDERATIONS base has become more permanent and, as a result, population A demographic profile was undertaken as part of the growth more stable. Infrastructure Audit. That study should be referred to for all relevant demographic statistics, analysis and findings within the 3.1.2 Methodology Goldfields-Esperance Region. The overall population growth for the region has been calculated at annual growth rates of 1.12 (low), 1.58 (medium) or 2.26 per 3.1.1 Population cent (high). These were based on research into past and present The Goldfields-Esperance Region covers an area of 771,276km2 trends for population growth and are considered to be realistic. (calculated on local government areas), and had an estimated The medium growth scenario is the most likely for the region, resident population of approximately 58,400 in 1998 (ABS, June although there will be a variance between individual towns. The 1999). Between 1991 and 1996 the region’s population increased medium growth scenario is based on an annual growth rate of 1.58 by 1.4 per cent each year. As can be seen in Table 1 the population per cent in accordance with the State Planning Strategy (Western of the region has been growing steadily since 1986. Australian Planning Commission 1997). It forecasts that by 2026 the region’s population will grow from 56,411 to 90,100, based on The population of the Goldfields sub-region is partly influenced continued steady growth in the mining sector, a marginal increase by the volatility of the mining industry. A regional focus on this in diversification of industries already in the region, and a steady industry has meant that growth has been particularly susceptible increase in the population of each local government. In to external influences, such as metal prices, exchange rates and comparison, under the low growth scenario, the population would stock market indices, the direction of the overseas market and reach 78,700 and under the high growth scenario 110,200 (see competition from other regions. Table 1). The medium growth rate scenario has been adopted as the likely growth rate for the purposes of this strategy.

16 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

TABLE 1: Projected Population Scenarios for the Goldfields-Esperance Region

Scenario 1: Low Growth Scenario (1.12% average annual growth rate 1996-2026) 1986* 1991* 1996* 2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 Kalgoorlie-Boulder 24,059 26,865 29,587 32,700 35,100 37,600 39,200 40,900 42,500 Coolgardie 5,208 5,824 5,651 5,000 5,100 5,200 5,300 5,500 5,700 Laverton 1,329 1,702 1,214 1,500 1,400 1,400 1,400 1,400 1,400 Leonora 2,096 2,518 2,774 3,000 3,200 3,400 3,600 3,800 3,700 Menzies 268 268 354 400 500 500 500 500 400 Ngaanyatjarraku N/A 1,203 1,445 1,700 1,800 2,000 2,300 2,400 2,500 Dundas 2,171 1,754 1,653 1,600 1,600 1,700 1,700 1,800 1,800 Esperance 10,064 11,078 12,300 13,900 15,100 15,800 17,000 17,900 18,700 Ravensthorpe 1,424 1,410 1,500 1,500 1,400 1,400 1,400 1,400 2,000 Total (a) 46,619 52,622 56,411 61,200 65,200 68,900 72,200 75,600 78,700

Scenario 2: Medium Growth Scenario (1.58% average annual growth rate 1996-2026) 1986* 1991* 1996* 2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 Kalgoorlie-Boulder 24,059 26,865 29,587 32,200 36,500 40,000 43,000 46,000 48,900 Coolgardie 5,208 5,824 5,651 5,200 5,200 5,300 5,400 5,900 6,300 Laverton 1,329 1,702 1,214 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 Leonora 2,096 2,518 2,774 3,000 3,300 3,700 4,000 4,300 4,600 Menzies 268 268 354 400 500 500 500 600 500 Ngaanyatjarraku N/A 1,203 1,445 1,700 1,900 2,200 2,500 2,700 2,800 Dundas 2,171 1,754 1,653 1,600 1,700 1,800 1,800 2,000 2,100 Esperance 10,064 11,078 12,300 14,100 15,500 16,800 18,500 19,700 21,000 Ravensthorpe 1,424 1,410 1,433 1,500 2,100 2,200 2,300 2,300 2,400 Total (a) 46,619 52,622 56,411 62,200 68,200 74,000 79,500 85,000 90,100

Scenario 3: High Growth Scenario ( 2.26% average annual growth rate 1996-2026) 1986* 1991* 1996* 2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 Kalgoorlie-Boulder 24,059 26,865 29,587 33,900 38,700 43,900 48,600 53,800 59,200 Coolgardie 5,208 5,824 5,651 5,500 5,800 6,300 6,700 7,400 8,200 Laverton 1,329 1,702 1,214 1,500 1,600 1,600 1,700 1,800 2,000 Leonora 2,096 2,518 2,774 3,100 3,500 4,000 4,500 5,000 5,500 Menzies 268 268 354 400 500 500 600 700 700 Ngaanyatjarraku N/A 1,203 1,445 1,700 2,000 2,400 2,800 3,100 3,500 Dundas 2,171 1,754 1,653 1,700 2,000 2,000 2,200 2,400 2,500 Esperance 10,064 11,078 12,300 14,500 16,600 18,400 21,000 23,300 25,600 Ravensthorpe 1,424 1,410 1,433 1,500 2,200 2,400 2,500 2,700 3,000 Total (a) 46,619 52,622 56,411 63,800 72,800 81,600 90,600 100,100 110,200

NOTE: * – Estimated residential population figures from the 1986, 1991 and 1996 Census (ABS). – Estimated population figures shown in italics are based on 1996 populations which are less than 2000 and, therefore, could be subject to higher than expected fluctuations for projected years.

(a) Components may not add up to totals due to rounding

The population figures for each shire were determined on a proportional basis – using Estimated Residential Population figures.

17 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

3.1.3 Gender Ratio and Age Structure 3.1.4 Income Levels and Distribution The age/sex ratio in the Goldfields-Esperance The average annual income is lower in the Region varies from town to town, and is Goldfields-Esperance Region than the rest of primarily dictated by the level and type of the State, and there is significant variation in economic activity in each town. Employment income levels within the region (the 1996 opportunity is the primary drawcard for most Census showed that some Goldfields districts of the region (particularly the Goldfields sub- have average incomes among the highest in region), rather than lifestyle choice, location, Australia). In the Esperance sub-region most good schooling or proximity to major towns. It is anticipated that people fit into the categories of young families or retirees, and people will move to the region for reasons other than there are fewer employment opportunities in this area than in the employment when towns become more established, with a greater Goldfields. Shires such as Esperance, Ravensthorpe and, to some number of services. extent, Dundas have a more even proportion of income earners across the various income brackets compared with towns in the There is usually a much higher proportion of males to females in Goldfields. Towns such as Leonora, Laverton and Menzies have a mining towns, with a population concentrated in the 25-40 age large proportion of the workforce earning between $40,000 and range. In agricultural towns, and those with a more diverse $70,000 a year. economic base, there is a more stable and proportional age/sex ratio. The median ratio of males to females is 1.15:1 for the 3.1.5 Employment by Industry Goldfields-Esperance Region. The highest ratio of males to females is in Laverton where it is 1.48:1 and in Leonora at 1.40:1. Almost 6,450 people – or 22.5 per cent of a total labour force of Gender distribution is most stable in the Shire of Esperance, 28,620 – are employed in the mining industry in the region. The where the ratio is almost even. The Shire of Esperance, with an second biggest employer is the retail industry, with 2,870 workers agricultural base, has different population dynamics to those of or 10 per cent. Other industries, such as construction, property mining towns such as Menzies and Coolgardie. and business services, and health and community services, are also prominent. These figures reflect expectations for regions such In terms of age distribution, Laverton, Leonora, Menzies, as Goldfields-Esperance, where secondary areas of industry are in Ngaanyatjarraku and Kalgoorlie-Boulder have a greater place to support the primary economic base. These trends are proportion of people aged between 25 and 34 than other local expected to continue, with the exception of possible increased governments in the region. A majority of people in this age group activity in construction as Kalgoorlie-Boulder develops into an are single and male, which highlights the dominance of mining even more urbanised and regionally significant town. activity in this part of the region. Mining will continue to dominate the region’s economy. There is a much higher proportion of males and females in the Individual mines may not provide as many jobs as the industry child-bearing age range between 20 and 34 years (33.4 per cent) in becomes more mechanised, but this should be more than offset by the Goldfields-Esperance Region when compared with the whole new mining operations, especially nickel. State (24.4 per cent), but the proportion of people aged 50 and above is significantly lower than the remainder of the State (1996 3.1.6 Demographic Trends in the Shires and Cities ABS Census data). Kalgoorlie-Boulder Hospital has the busiest of the Region maternity unit in regional Western Australia. Leonora The Goldfields sub-region differs from the typical growth The Shire of Leonora covers 31,743km2, or 4.4 per cent of the scenarios and trends of the rest of the State. The inconsistency of Goldfields-Esperance Region. It had an estimated resident the region’s population base is attuned to the volatility and population of approximately 2,700 in 1999 (ABS, Feb 2000). buoyancy of the mining industry and the way it operates. There are two towns (Leonora and Leinster) and one Aboriginal Contract and fly-in/fly-out arrangements make a difference to community within the shire’s boundaries. Population figures for workforce size and the number of “temporary” residents in the the towns have tended to reflect the fluctuating fortunes of the region. Local governments in the region often complain that major industries – mining and pastoralism – in recent years. In official population statistics underestimate the real numbers as the next 30 years, the population is expected to increase only this can effect their bid for resources and funding. slightly or moderately, depending on the level and extent of mining activity in the area.

18 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Several large mines and potential mines in the Laverton Shire Although the medium growth scenario as outlined in Table 1 has could lead to moderate population growth in Laverton and been adopted for the Strategy, based on past population trends it Leonora. The new Murrin Murrin Nickel Project in the Shire of is possible that the population of Kalgoorlie-Boulder may be Laverton is almost entirely fly-in/fly-out. This practice is likely to more consistent with the high growth scenario of 2 per cent. be repeated in other shires, especially where the mine site is not within commuting distance of a town. Other factors that will Coolgardie influence growth include the release of residential and industrial The Shire of Coolgardie includes the settlements of Coolgardie, 2 land and the nature of fly-in/fly-out policies. Kambalda and Widgiemooltha, and covers 30,400km .Coolgardie and Kambalda are two major townsites, where the estimated Laverton resident population of approximately 5,000 in 1999 (ABS, Feb The Shire of Laverton covers 183,198km2, with an estimated 2000) is concentrated. The shire’s population has fluctuated since resident population of approximately 1,185 in 1999 (ABS, Feb 1976, declining from 1976-86, and increasing from 1986-91. 2000). Mining activity has been a major influence on the size of the town and the population. Between 1986 and 1991 the mining The Shire of Coolgardie’s economic base is primarily gold and industry contributed to an average annual increase in population nickel mining and limited pastoralism and tourism. Demand for of 5.32 per cent, but the withdrawal of WMC Resources Pty Ltd services and facilities is from those associated with the mining (Windarra nickel mine) from the area resulted in a dramatic industry and their families, but the cyclical nature of the mining decline in population. industry means there is no guarantee the demand will be sustained.

In the next 30 years, Laverton is expected to experience a slight to Factors that will influence the future growth of Coolgardie, moderate population increase, and significantly more if major Kambalda and Kambalda West include: development of the projects eventuate. Some new mining operations, such as Murrin Mungari Industrial Park; availability and price of residential land Murrin, are proposing to employ a significant number of and variety of lot sizes particularly to attract people as an Aboriginal workers (20 per cent target for operational phase). If alternative to living in Kalgoorlie-Boulder; upgrading of the roads these people live locally, as opposed to fly-in/fly-out, population between Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Coolgardie, Kambalda and numbers should be strengthened. Kambalda West; continuation of fly-in/fly-out; and provision of improved community and health services. Other factors that have the potential to influence growth in Laverton include: upgrading of the Outback Highway from Menzies Laverton to Alice Springs, and on to Winton in Queensland; Menzies had an estimated resident population of approximately 2 provision of facilities for tourists; fly-in/fly-out policies; and 340 in 1999 (ABS, Feb 2000). Covering 71,680km , with townships upgrading of communications. at Menzies and Kookynie, the shire has had a declining population base since early this century, principally because of the reduction Kalgoorlie-Boulder in mining activity in the area. No significant population changes The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder had an estimated resident are anticipated in the next 30 years. The shire’s principal economic population of approximately 31,400 in 1999 (ABS, Feb 2000), base is gold and nickel mining and processing, and pastoralism. representing about 53.8 per cent of the region’s total population, and is expected to continue to grow at a steady rate, driven by local Ngaanyatjarraku service industry expansion and the growth of the mining industry. In 1993, the Shire of Wiluna was partitioned and the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku was created, with offices in Warburton. Within Kalgoorlie-Boulder is the regional centre and acts as a service the new shire’s boundaries are the communities of Warburton, centre for the local population and surrounding towns, such as Tjirrkarli, Mantamaru, Papulankutja, Irrunytju, Tjukurla, Menzies, Coolgardie and Leonora. It is a major transport hub for Wannan, Patjarr, Warakurna and numerous small outstations. the transfer of goods into and out of the region, and to the north 2 and south-east regions of the State. The region’s road and rail The shire covers 159,948 km , and had an estimated resident networks converge at Kalgoorlie-Boulder. This focus on transport population of approximately 1,600 in 1999 (ABS, Feb 2000). Most will be enhanced by the proposed development of a major new of the people are Aborigines, whose transient lifestyle means that intermodal freight facility which will expand the role of the population fluctuates. Growth may result from the Kalgoorlie-Boulder as the major regional centre. development of the Outback Highway, from Laverton through Warburton to Alice Springs and Winton in Queensland.

19 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Dundas The shire’s principal industries are agriculture, The Shire of Dundas is 92,725km2 and includes mining, fishing and tourism. Efforts are being the townships of Norseman and Eucla. It had made to promote Ravensthorpe and especially an estimated resident population of Hopetoun as tourist destinations. In the next approximately 1,500 in 1999 (ABS, Feb 2000). 30 years, the populations of Hopetoun and The southern portion of the shire was annexed Ravensthorpe are expected to increase in 1991 and became part of the Shire of significantly, due to tourism and recreational Esperance. This annexation did not have a resources, agricultural enterprises and significant effect on population. anticipated mining ventures, principally in nickel.

Gold mining, pastoralism, and fishing (in Eucla) are the principal 3.2 SETTLEMENTS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES industries in the shire, with most mining employees living in the town of Norseman. Although the Lake Johnston Nickel Project Since the early days of settlement when the majority of the (Maggie Hays/Emily Ann), west of Norseman (expected to open population was scattered over a number of sizeable mining towns, in 2001/2002) would lead to a small increase in population within the population has now stabilised and is located predominantly the shire, its workforce is likely to operate on a fly-in/fly-out within the regional centre, Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and one of the arrangement which will not change the local population sub-regional centres, Esperance, which together account for 64 significantly. Overall, the shire is unlikely to record any major per cent of the region’s population (refer Table 2 for regional population increase in the next 30 years. hierarchy of settlements). Seventeen per cent of the population is located within the centres of Laverton, Leonora, Leinster, Esperance Coolgardie, Kambalda and Norseman; one per cent in the minor The Shire of Esperance is a sub-regional centre, and had an mining town of Menzies; two per cent in the agriculturally based estimated resident population of approximately 13,070 in 1999 towns of Ravensthorpe, Hopetoun, Cascade and Salmon Gums; (ABS, Feb 2000), representing about 22 per cent of the region’s one per cent within the service centres of Eucla, Warburton, total population. Wharton, Munglinup, Gibson, Ora Banda, Agnew, Condingup and Grass Patch. Most of the remaining population is within the Esperance, like Kalgoorlie-Boulder, is anticipated to have high rural areas and Aboriginal communities. population growth in the next 30 years. The annual growth rate in recent years has been 3 per cent and, if this rate continues to the This section considers the future of the settlements in the region year 2020, the population will increase to more than 23,000. This and examines the provision of social infrastructure. Social trend is likely because of the shire’s ideal location on the coast, and infrastructure is the range of facilities and services that have a adequate provision of services. It is therefore possible that the direct impact on the quality of life and includes education population of Esperance may be more consistent with the high facilities and services, health care facilities and services and police growth scenario of 2 per cent. and emergency services. The Infrastructure Audit of service provision in the region has identified gaps and future needs in 2 The Shire of Esperance covers 42,450km , and includes the relation to social infrastructure as outlined. townsites of Esperance, Gibson, Scaddan, Grass Patch, Cascade, Condingup, Coomalbidgup and Salmon Gums. Industries are 3.2.1 Issues Affecting Patterns of Growth and Settlement diverse and include agriculture (the major industry), tourism, super phosphate production, fishing, port activity, salt extraction There are a number of major issues which affect the expansion and meat processing. and patterns of settlement in the region. These include the Native Title Act, 1993, the Mining Act, 1978, fly-in/fly-out practices, Ravensthorpe availability of services and the Goldfields sub-region’s mining The Shire of Ravensthorpe includes the towns of Hopetoun and based economy. Ravensthorpe and the local service centre of Munglinup. It is the smallest shire in the region, covering 12,872km2. It had an The Native Title Act estimated resident population of approximately 1,500 in 1999 The Goldfields-Esperance Region is currently covered by (ABS, Feb 2000), with approximately 350 people living in each numerous applications for native title determination (native title town. Ravensthorpe is an important stopping point for travellers claims) lodged under the Native Title Act. and road trains on their way to Perth, Esperance and Albany. Hopetoun is an attractive town on the Southern Ocean coastline, and is home to a number of retirees.

20 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

TABLE 2: Hierarchy of Settlements/Communities in the Goldfields-Esperance Region Town/Settlement Regional Hierarchy

Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Regional Centre

Esperance, Leonora. Sub-regional Centre

Laverton, Leinster, Coolgardie, Kambalda, Norseman, Ravensthorpe. District Service Centres

Menzies, Eucla, Hopetoun, Salmon Gums, Warburton, Munglinup, Local Service Centres Gibson, Widgiemooltha, Condingup, Grass Patch.

Patjarr, Tjukurla, Karrku Homelands, Warakurna, Wannan, Irrunytju (Wingellina), Aboriginal Communities Mantamaru (Jameson), Tjirrkarli, Cosmo Newberry, Papulankutja, Paupjyala Tjarutja (Tjuntjuntjarra), Upurl Upurlila Ngurratja (Coonana), Nurra Kurramunoo (Mulga Queen), Wilja Hostel (Wilson’s Patch), AMOS, Nambi Road Village, Ninga Mia, Mingarwee, Kurrawang, Earagull, Wongatha Wonganarra Village.

The procedural requirements of the Native Title Act have provisions and local laws prior to approval being granted. considerable implications for future development involving However, the process of dealing with objections can be lengthy. Crown land, particularly where titles are required under either the Possible solutions may exist with long term planning where Land Administration Act, 1998 or Mining Act. This includes coordination and identification of mineral-rich areas and land instances where the development of infrastructure such as roads required for development are resolved during town planning and other public works is intended over Crown land. scheme reviews and their preparation.

Where applicable, appropriate future act procedures of the Native The Department of Minerals and Energy has identified areas with Title Act will need to be complied with prior to the granting of any resource potential in Kalgoorlie-Boulder and other townsites (and interest or title over the subject land. Planning of new adjacent areas) and is encouraging industry to test their potential developments over Crown land should include likely timelines for by drilling. The mining industry should be encouraged to dealing with the requirements of the Native Title Act. continue this process. Areas in the region with mineral potential which may affect the growth of townsites should be identified. Major subdivision developments in Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Leonora are two of a number of land grant proposals within the Fly-in/Fly-out Goldfields-Esperance Region which are at various stages of the The population of the region comprises a relatively high fly-in/fly- future act process. out workforce especially in relation to remote minesites. The impact of fly-in/fly-out arrangements means that there is the Recent amendments (September 1998) to the Native Title Act will potential for some of the population not to be taken into account mean substantial changes in dealing with claim determinations in the provision of grant allocations as applied by the WA Local and processing of future acts. The amendments enable States to Government Grants Commission (WALGGC). The WALGGC establish alternative future act regimes, and the Western takes this into account to a certain extent by applying a disability Australian Government has introduced legislation into factor and adjusts the population accordingly. However, there is Parliament as part of the process of establishing alternative still a potential for inadequate allocations, and mechanisms need regimes in this State. to be developed which can sufficiently account for the demands The Mining Act created by this transient population on the services and Conflict between mining activities and other land infrastructure needed at the local level. The Australian Bureau of uses/development is significant in the region. The Mining Act Statistics should be encouraged to enhance its counting of the fly- enables the Minister to determine or proclaim any area or land as in/fly-out population and better reflect this in its figures. a mineral field or district, or grant a mining tenement over land. It is recognised that mining companies have less incentive, and Section 120 of the Mining Act specifies that applications for some disincentive (Fringe Benefits Tax) to invest funds in the mining tenements must consider town planning scheme study area townships or to consider the establishment of new

21 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

towns than they have in the past. They are more Police and emergency services are essential inclined to contribute to community but the large region provides a major developments such as Kalgoorlie Consolidated challenge to maintain a high standard of Gold Mining’s (KCGM) contribution towards service. Improvements to the mobility of on- the building of the Goldfields Art Centre and ground police services, communications Recreation Centre. Township growth, services facilities and retention of high standard and enhancement generally rely on personnel are required. government expenditure. In response, Even when facilities are available in the region, the quality of government should encourage mineral exploration and mining services such as education are often perceived to be inferior to companies to base and house workers and their families locally those in other major regional centres or Perth. The ability of more where possible or, if appropriate, to adopt centres within the remote areas to attract better qualified staff is reduced either region such as Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Esperance as fly-in/fly-out because of inferior community facilities or services in the region bases. Under a global fly-in/fly-out strategy people could be or sub-standard housing. recruited from major towns such as Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Esperance. Perth residents could be encouraged to decentralise to Governments and the community generally consider that it is those towns through home rental/purchase schemes linked to desirable to establish viable communities in remote areas of employment within the mining industry. Western Australia. If this objective is to be achieved, greater assistance by government in the provision of services and Availability of Community Services facilities, the elimination of adverse taxation policies and The availability of medical services is a major consideration in improved government coordination will be required. attracting young families to remote areas, while access to high school education facilities is often an important factor which Mining Based Economy affects the retention of families in the region. The health care needs Given the high proportion of persons employed in the mining of the region are administered by the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Health industry, particularly in the Goldfields sub-region, towns and Service Board, the South-East Coast Health Service Board and a settlements are more susceptible to the health of the local mining Board for Leonora and Laverton. Nursing posts are located at industry than their counterparts in other regions. More Coolgardie, Menzies and Kambalda, and the Kalgoorlie-Boulder operations are now based on fly-in/fly-out. The establishment of Health Service Board administers First Aid Posts in the remote a mine or processing plant can significantly boost the population communities of Upurl Upurlila Ngurratja and Paupiyala Tjarutja. of the nearest town, and improve the level of services available. If Health care services in the region need strengthening in the areas the mine closes there is a decline in demand for services, as seen of health promotion, illness prevention and nutrition education to in Menzies. improve the quality of life and, in the long term, reduce health costs. Additional aged care facilities would improve the retention The characteristics of the region’s settlements and infrastructure of seniors in the region. Incentive schemes are required for the services are discussed below. An Infrastructure Audit of service recruitment and retention of health care professionals. provision in the region was undertaken by GHD Consultants. The results of this audit are addressed in this discussion. Education is another major factor for people deciding to settle in the region. There are 55 schools in the region. With the exception 3.2.2 Analysis of Settlements of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Esperance, low student numbers, low staff retention rates and limited secondary education prospects Kalgoorlie-Boulder – Regional Centre characterise the region. Given the propensity of some families to Kalgoorlie-Boulder is the regional centre and major economic move away from the region once their children reach high school node in the region (refer to Structure Plan – Figure 29). Its role age, improved education within the region needs to be as a service centre to the northern Goldfields and a transport hub considered, particularly high school and higher education for the region is central. Kalgoorlie-Boulder is a key location for facilities. The amalgamation of the WA School of Mines and the transfer of mineral products from mines in the region and the Kalgoorlie College to form the Curtin University of Technology, importation of processing reagents. It offers a large array of Kalgoorlie Campus, and the announcement of a Senior College services, such as mining equipment sales and servicing, banking, on the campus and are important initiatives. In addressing the hospital facilities, shopping centres, senior high schools and other need for adequate schools, the provision of child-care facilities education facilities together with recreation and cultural facilities. and family orientated entertainment opportunities also requires consideration.

22 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

By the year 2026, Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s population is expected to The principal planning issues for Kalgoorlie-Boulder are: reach 49,400 (based on medium growth scenario projections), • Continue to monitor the potential for land development and with an estimated 13,954 dwellings. The main area of future seek an understanding and resolution of native title and residential development will be in the north-west sector of the tenement issues which constrain future land development. town. However, much of this land is currently the subject of • Improve water supply and wastewater treatment for future Mining Act tenements and will need to be tested for its resource urban and industrial development. potential. Urban development cannot proceed until the • Continue to promote Kalgoorlie-Boulder as the regional tenements concerned have been tested by drilling and shown to be centre by encouraging the development of higher level unprospective. Native title negotiations will commence once services and facilities and as a base for fly-in/fly-out staff from Mining Act tenements have been tested and cleared by the throughout the region. Department of Minerals and Energy. • Provide appropriately zoned land and develop link roads are The City Council is undertaking a sewerage infrastructure developed to intermodal freight facilities in order to assessment, and recognises that upgrading will be needed in consolidate the town’s regional significance. Lamington, which is serviced by the oldest infrastructure in • Improve education and health facilities to provide private Kalgoorlie-Boulder. This infrastructure is considered inadequate health care facilities to provide a choice for residents and to support future increased residential densities. expand specialist services. Ongoing opportunities for redevelopment and land for future • Expand the Curtin University of Technology Kalgoorlie residential use should continue to be identified by the Land Campus, particularly student housing and additional Release Taskforce to counteract the shortage created by native title facilities, including the Centre for Management of Arid and mining issues. Progression of native title claims affecting Environments. future urban areas in the town will facilitate future urban • Preserve the historic character of the town. development. In conjunction with this, the historic character of Kalgoorlie-Boulder should be preserved.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder should continue to be promoted as the regional centre for the provision of higher level services and facilities, such as secondary and tertiary education, employment training and health amenities.

The Road-Rail Intermodal Terminal Facilities Kalgoorlie- Boulder Land Requirements Study concludes that the task of developing freight terminals at Kalgoorlie-Boulder would be left to private companies with the Government playing a role in ensuring land is appropriately zoned and link roads are developed to the right standard.

The City’s role as a base for fly-in/fly-out staff throughout the region needs to be promoted.

A structure plan for Kalgoorlie-Boulder forms part of this Strategy and is discussed in Section 7.0. Land releases in Kalgoorlie-Boulder are currently monitored through the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Land Development Program which identifies land release areas within the town.

23 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

TABLE 3: Table of Land Availability – Residential Shire/City Available Lots Future Identified Lots

Kalgoorlie-Boulder (Oct 99) 200 (1a) 1200 (1b)

Coolgardie (Dec 98) 70 100 (2)

Kambalda (Dec 98) - 100 (3)

Leonora (Dec 98) 16 8 (4)

Leinster (Dec 98) - 100 (5)

Laverton (Dec 98) 70 20 (6)

Menzies (Dec 98) 5 60 (7)

Norseman (Dec 98) 20 50 (8)

Eucla (Dec 98) - - (9)

Esperance (Dec 98) 100+ 1000 (10)

Ravensthorpe (Dec 98) - 200 (11)

Hopetoun (Dec 98) 6 300 (12)

Source: (1a) Land Release Taskforce (1999) estimate only (1b) Land Release Taskforce (1999) but 1200 may be constrained (2) Estimate only (3) Potential but not currently available – held by Western Mining Resources Pty Ltd (4) Exist but do not have infrastructure (5) Assumed from available land resource (6) Assumed based upon information from DOLA of processing native title claims (7) Has potential services (estimate only), many more available in future (8) Estimate only (9) Estimate only (10) N/A – Not available (11) Estimate only (12) Estimate only

24 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Esperance – Sub-regional Centre The principal planning issues for Esperance are: Esperance town (population of 8,647 in 1996) has a greater • Identification of land for residential development to 2026. proportion of retirees and families than the rest of the region, • Identification of land for future heavy industrial because of its pleasant location and a level of services equal to development. Proximity to the port and access corridor are those of most metropolitan suburbs (refer to Structure Plan – important considerations. Figure 32). A downturn in the mining industry would not affect • Consideration of the need for an additional port to support Esperance as significantly as Kalgoorlie-Boulder or the other the existing port at Esperance. mining towns, because it has a more diverse economy than other towns in the region. There is potential for economic development • The need for planning and management of the unique – in farm forestry and aquaculture, mining and mineral foreshore areas of Esperance. processing – to reduce the town’s vulnerability to down turns in • Protection of the Esperance Lakes Nature Reserves (Ramsar the agricultural commodities sector. Potential mine and mineral Convention3). processing developments are confined to the Ravensthorpe area • Better provision of higher level services, such as secondary and northern parts of the Esperance Shire. A site for major education, employment training and health amenities, needs industrial development needs to be identified within proximity to to be advocated in Esperance in addition to those provided in the Esperance townsite and the port, with suitable road and rail Kalgoorlie-Boulder. For example: access linking the estate with the port. • One more general practitioner is needed, preferably Esperance’s coastal and scenic location is an important drawcard female. for retirees and tourists. Expansion of the town to accommodate • Day surgery facilities are needed at Esperance Hospital. the needs of residents can also provide opportunities for tourist • Tele-medicine and Tele-radiology facilities and staff development. The Esperance town centre has the potential for training are recommended, to bring better health services enhancement to appeal to both visitors and residents, particularly to the region. by creating a stronger focus on the scenic Bay of Isles. A foreshore • A site for a second high school needs to be identified development plan has been proposed to address this. because suitable land is scarce. The school should be The O’Sullivan Power and Gas Project north of Esperance is established in the medium-term. currently the subject of a feasibility study and there are plans to • Government housing for staff and improved facilities are build a 200MW power station which generates electricity from needed to attract and retain more teachers. gasification of the lignite deposits. The project, if implemented, • Promotion of Esperance as a base for the recruitment of fly- would have a significant impact on the economy of the shire. in/fly-out staff. Better provision of enhanced higher level services, such as • The need to ensure that rural-residential development does secondary education, employment training and health amenities not impinge on protected resources. should be advocated for Esperance, which should also be • The need to protect land identified for future urban promoted as a base for the recruitment and home base of fly- development. in/fly-out staff.

Areas for future land development have been identified in the Shire of Esperance Town Planning Scheme. A large portion of the available land is in the eastern sector of the townsite, and this area is well serviced by infrastructure. Other areas for development stretch from south of Lake Warden to the West Beach area. This land should cater for growth in the next 10 to 15 years. A structure plan for Esperance has been prepared as part of this Strategy and is discussed in Section 8.0.

3 The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat was adopted in Ramsar, Iran in February, 1971, and is commonly referred to as the Ramsar Convention. Australia was a signatory to this agreement in 1971.

25 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Leonora – Sub-regional Centre • The lack of reasonably priced land for Leonora (refer Figure 3) has an airstrip with mining accommodation, particularly lots scheduled services to Perth, although not to that can be developed to group housing Kalgoorlie. Housing in Leonora includes standards and along low-maintenance lines. Aboriginal reserve accommodation, mine camp To attract and retain the population, plans accommodation and standard residential must provide recreational, work and residential development. The two gold mines nearby, opportunities and a high-quality residential Tarmoola and Sons of Gwalia Ltd, employ and natural environment. The Infrastructure people who live in mine camps or within other housing Audit identifies the following urban infrastructure requirements accommodation in Leonora. for Leonora:

Leonora and Wiluna (outside the study area) are expected to • Leonora District High School requires expansion and remain the dominant sub regional centres of the northern upgrading. Goldfields, catering for regional tourism, the pastoral industry, • Teacher accommodation at Mulga Queen Aboriginal Aboriginal communities and the mining sector. This is owed to Community School needs improvement. Leonora’s existing services and infrastructure, its location central • Recreation and social facilities for young people are needed. to much of the mining activity in the northern Goldfields and its • Aged care facilities require improvement to be in line with a potential for future expansion and development. projected increase in the aged population. Population of the Leonora townsite is expected to increase from • Strategies are required to attract and retain health care staff. 1,143 in 1996 (ABS Census) to approximately 1,532 persons by • Explore potential for reallocating spare hospital space to other the year 2026. It is estimated that an additional 21ha will be compatible uses. required to accommodate 200 dwellings in Leonora. Although the Murrin Murrin Nickel Project will employ workers on a fly-in/fly- The development of a variety of additional housing designed to out basis, there will be an increased demand on services in the meet the needs of both permanent residents and the mining town. The company has announced a 20 per cent Aboriginal community will strengthen the social cohesion which ultimately employment target, which would boost and stabilise the will benefit the town and the region as a whole. population base. The employment numbers include a peak Most of the residential land in the townsite is coded R12.5 or construction force of 2,000 and a regular workforce of 600. Some R10/20 and is already developed. Expansion of residential land of the contractors to the project have been based in the town. can occur to the south-east with changes in land tenure and Anaconda is planning an expansion of the project and a new resolution of native title claims. In order to ease some of the project at Mt Margaret. These activities will also have an impact housing cost and supply issues it may be appropriate to on Leonora. resubdivide/recode existing sites, so that duplex, triplex or Leonora has the potential for considerable expansion but is quadruplex development could be undertaken. This could satisfy limited by the standard of education facilities, medical facilities, demand for mining accommodation, which could be formally shopping and the lack of serviced lots at a price that could recognised and serviced as medium density residential facilitate development. Specific issues raised by mining workers at development. Multiple housing zones could be made available for or near Leonora include: mining accommodation within existing towns such as Leonora to cater for married couples or small groups of tenants and owners. • The limited range of education facilities and the lack of TAFE link for trainee apprentices. Consideration should be given to resubdivision of existing lots • The lack of medical facilities – the hospital does not have and the creation of superlots of Crown land for joint venture maternity facilities, and relies on the services of one doctor development with those wishing to provide mining housing, and the RFDS on occasions. accommodation and facilities. Cabinet agreements could be used • The lack of shopping variety and the high price of common to overcome shortages of land availability by making specific groceries. parcels of land or ‘superlots’ available for Government-sponsored joint ventures with those parties wishing to build mining • The lack of reasonably priced land for residential, commercial accommodation and housing. and industrial use.

26 PART 1 – BACKGROUND

0 100 200 Metres LEGEND 1 Potential Area for Future Development

Townsite Boundary

LEGEND - Indicative Land Use (Existing TPS Zones and Reserves) PU Residential Public Purposes

A Aerodrome CW Commercial CW Community Welfare A H Hospital Special Site HO Hostel

Y A PU Public Utility

G I Industrial S School H TC Tourist Centre TC S Rural A Potential Area for Future Development

Rural Railway

HO Parkland Major Highway

L Recreation Townsite Boundary

G Produced by Project Mapping Section, ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig3.z50 Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 H Department of Land Administration, W.A.

Figure 3: Leonora

27 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Industrial land in the townsite is inadequate to All existing infrastructure, with the exception cater for current and future demands. The of water and wastewater requirements, is well existing industrial area could be expanded in a provided for and there is little need for southerly or northerly direction, following upgrading unless significant and resolution of native title claims on this land. unprecedented growth occurs. Possible sources These matters should be addressed through of growth are the flow-on effects of the revision of the existing town planning scheme. Outback Highway, proposed between Laverton and Winton in Queensland, and/or increased The principal planning issues for Leonora are: mining activity. Land supply is currently adequate with 70 • Recognition of the role of Leonora as a sub-regional centre to residential lots available in the townsite. Should additional land be the northern goldfields. required, lots could be created adjacent to existing infrastructure, • The need for provision of a higher standard of education and behind the industrial area north of the town, or in the southern medical facilities and shopping such as: part of the town, west of Barrett Street. A new town planning • Upgrading of the Leonora District High School, scheme for Laverton is currently being prepared. including Information Technology facilities. A strategy Issues raised by residents of Laverton include: for the ongoing improvement and maintenance of the • The need for access to government services. school is required. • Social problems such as alcoholism, poverty and welfare • The need for recreation and sporting facilities for youth dependency related to the high unemployment rate of i.e. public swimming pool. predominantly Aboriginal persons in the town. • The need for provision of aged care facilities. The principal planning issues for Laverton are: • The need for emergency services such as State Emergency • The need to upgrade service facilities to help Laverton realise its Service or Bush Fire Brigade – currently limited to potential as an important centre along the Outback Highway. ambulance. • Provision for an increased demand in residential land arising • The need for serviced residential and industrial lots, as the from development of the Outback Highway. suitable land requires changes to land tenure and is subject to • Improvements to education, aged care and health facilities native title claims. such as: • Explore the opportunities to recode land to higher densities to • Upgrading of the Laverton District High School, accommodate mining workforces within the townsite. including Information Technology facilities. A strategy • Need to review the Shire of Leonora Town Planning Scheme for the ongoing improvement and maintenance of the No.1. school is required. • Aged care facilities in accordance with the growth of the Laverton – District Service Centre aged population. The population of Laverton townsite (refer figure 4) was 644 in 1996 (ABS Census). In addition about 2,000 people work at • strategies to attract and retain health care staff. surrounding minesites on a fly-in/fly-out basis, although only a • Reallocation of spare hospital space to compatible uses. proportion of these are in the area at any one time. Growth in • Improved access to mental health and specialist services. Laverton is not expected to be significant over the next 30 years.

Laverton services tourists travelling on the Outback Highway to Uluru and other tourist areas. The town also functions as a service centre for the surrounding pastoral and Aboriginal communities as well as the Jindalee radar facility. Although the town is a service centre, it is not used by other towns and/or minesites for this purpose. This is unlikely to change unless there is an improvement to the standard of facilities and services.

28 PART 1 – BACKGROUND

0 100 200 Metres 1 LEGEND Potential Area for Future Development

Townsite Boundary

D A O LEGEND - Indicative Land Use (Existing TPS Zones and Reserves) R

IA Residential Public Purposes R E B GC AC Aquatic Centre Commercial C Church Site

CO Community Purpose Town Common P CP Caravan Park CP C CO GC Golf Course BER WHITE CLIFFS IA ROAD Special Development H Hospital H OAD AC R R Recreation PI SS Industrial T SS School Site R Potential Area for P Park WS Future Development PI Pre-school/Infant Health Centre Townsite Boundary T TV Repeater Station WS Water Supply

Produced by Project Mapping Section, ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig4.z50 Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Department of Land Administration, W.A.

Figure 4: Laverton

29 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Leinster – District Service Centre mines. The study recommends a site adjacent to Leinster as Leinster (refer Figure 5) is a company (WMC Resources Ltd) potentially suitable for the service centre. This location has been controlled town, fully planned under a State Agreement Act. It has considered convenient in terms of existing infrastructure and an airport with a sealed runway. Leinster can accommodate social base and more economic provision of services. approximately 1,500 people within the town and in camp Although Leinster provides a good living environment, it is accommodation (population of 1,440 in 1996). The school at unlikely to be expanded while there is a cost incentive for the Leinster was downgraded from a district high school to a primary company to use fly-in/fly-out. WMC employees have a choice of school at the end of 1998. It has about 200 pupils and telematic living in Leinster or fly-in/fly-out, and can change from one mode links to Kalgoorlie. There are good medical facilities available. to another. Leinster is a company town with strong infrastructure and support services which has encouraged families to live in the Leinster is not covered by a town planning scheme. Under the town. It has a planned layout with a safe and pleasant atmosphere State Agreement Act for Leinster there is provision for third party and is a good example of how a remote town can be developed to access. There are currently no moves to normalise the town. The be attractive and provide an acceptable lifestyle. company has just signed a new 21-year lease. The longer-term future of the town could be described as a “controlled opening”, The Northern Goldfields Mineral Province Study (1996) identified which may occur through contractors to the mining industry the need for a centre to service the increased mining activity and using the service centre and basing some staff there. downstream processing anticipated in the northern Goldfields. It has been estimated that accommodation for an additional 500- Leinster is served by a well-maintained primary school and some 600 people will be required if this service centre eventuates. parents choose to send their children to Perth for secondary Companies have indicated that a locally based service centre education. Education services are available for year 11 and 12 for within 1.5 hours’ drive of the major mines and/or downstream face to face and distance education. processing works would be beneficial in terms of reduction in down time and the reduction of stocks of spare parts held at the In order to retain the population of Leinster and continue to attract residents, certain improvements to the provision of services should be made. The Infrastructure Audit identified the N need for the following community infrastructure improvements for Leinster:

0 200 400 • Strategies to retain and attract health care staff. Spare hospital Metres space should be reallocated for compatible uses such as a health care centre or aged care. • Strategies to retain more secondary students, possibly through improved secondary education facilities. The principal planning issues for Leinster are: • The provision of better secondary education facilities. • Development of a service centre and its associated accommodation in the northern Goldfields. GO LDFI ELDS • The need to initiate discussions about the “controlled HIG HW opening” of the town. AY

LEGEND - Land Ownership

Crown Lease

Private Freehold Land

Figure 5: Leinster

30 PART 1 – BACKGROUND

0 250 500 Metres 1 LEGEND Potential Area for Future Development

Townsite Boundary

LEGEND - Indicative Land Use (Existing TPS Zones and Reserves) RE S Residential Public Purposes

C Cemetery Special Use D Depot W EE Educational Endowment Rural/Mining H Hospital

C PO Post Office S S Commercial PW Public Work S S Y Y RE Reservoir GREAT D P HWA D PO EASTERN HIG Industrial S School D W Water W Civil and Cultural Y Youth Club EE PW H Recreation Major Highway W S W W Potential Area for Future Development Townsite Boundary H Produced by Project Mapping Section, ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig6.z50 Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Department of Land Administration, W.A.

Figure 6: Coolgardie

31 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Coolgardie – District Service Centre The Mungari Industrial Park (located in the Coolgardie town (refer Figure 6) had a Shire of Coolgardie) has native title clearance population of 1,258 in 1996 (ABS Census). The and currently has lots available for built environment of the town consists of development. LandCorp and DRD have about 200ha of land principally in the northern prepared a marketing plan to promote the part of the townsite. Traditionally, newer development of Mungari. residential areas of the town have tended to Coolgardie’s growth may also be boosted by its expand northward. South of the highway the relative proximity (30 minutes’ drive) to Kalgoorlie-Boulder and uses have tended toward institutional, civic and cultural and the high price of land in Kalgoorlie-Boulder relative to industrial. With the exception of about 8ha, areas immediately Coolgardie, i.e. it has the potential as a ‘dormitory suburb’ of outside the townsite boundary are unallocated Crown land or Kalgoorlie. leasehold. Development on the periphery of Coolgardie townsite is restricted by mining issues and potential native title claims. The availability of a variety of residential lot sizes in Coolgardie could become a drawcard for residential development. Mining tenements are not being granted on account of delays in reaching agreement with the native title claimants. In such a The principal planning issues for Coolgardie are: situation companies are not able to explore or mine, which in turn • Potential demand for residential lots due to the difference in precludes an assessment of the prospectivity of an area and cost between land in Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Coolgardie. clearance for residential and/or industrial developments. • The promotion of Coolgardie as a dormitory suburb of The eastern part of the townsite, including the area earmarked for Kalgoorlie-Boulder and an alternative lifestyle. industrial development, is highly prospective and will not be • Availability of a variety of lot sizes to attract residents. available for development until the area has been tested by • Identification of land for light industry. drilling, and mining issues have been resolved. There is a need to identify further land for light industrial purposes, should the land • The need for council to continue to monitor the native title currently earmarked not be available. There is currently an process and claims on mineral tenements and, where adequate amount of residential land to satisfy demand at least for necessary, take a proactive role to minimise the impact on the next 10 years. According to the medium growth scenario, an land identified for future growth. additional 20ha will need to be available for development by the • Identification of potential areas for the 21ha of land expected year 2026. to be required by the year 2026, possibly through a five-yearly review of the town planning scheme. A District Town Planning Scheme is currently being prepared • Protection of heritage buildings, including those privately which takes into account the implications of the Mining Act, noise owned. pollution and native title. The preliminary scheme recommends a density of R12.5 for proposed residential areas on the south side • The need to secure an additional school site, preferably in a of the townsite. location central to the southern residential area of the town, to provide for a connection to the civic and cultural complex Heritage buildings in the town should be protected. Due to the area and town centre. low level of commercial activity heritage buildings have been left • Expansion of health facilities and services. vacant or allowed to fall into disrepair. The protection of those • The development of Mungari Industrial Park. buildings can be addressed through recognition in the Municipal Inventory of the shire’s Town Planning Scheme. However, sources of funding should be identified to assist the private owners to maintain these buildings.

32 PART 1 – BACKGROUND

0 150 300 Metres LEGEND Potential Area for 1 Future Development or Consolidation Townsite Boundary

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig7.z50 Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Department of Land Administration, W.A.

LEGEND - Indicative Land Use (Existing TPS Zones and Reserves)

G FS Fire Station O R D Residential O S School N DR Potential Area for Special Use Future Development or Consolidation DR Rural/Mining Major Highway AD AM S FS A Commercial Townsite Boundary S DR Civil and Cultural DR ROAD Recreation

Public Purposes

A Ambulance Depot

DR Drainage

Figure 7: Kambalda

33 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Kambalda – Service Centre Land in Kambalda/Kambalda West is cheaper Kambalda (refer Figures 7 and 8) comprises than in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and the relatively two townsites, Kambalda (population of 1,200 short distance between the two areas would in 1996) and Kambalda West (population of enable people to commute to and from work. 2,398 in 1996). Nickel was found at Kambalda An increased demand on land supply is in the 1960s, and a new town, Kambalda West expected as nearby Kalgoorlie-Boulder was established five kilometres from the expands. existing townsite to prevent land use conflicts Other issues that were specifically raised during community hindering mining operations. consultation included: Kambalda West has been undergoing “normalisation”, i.e. • The need for upgrading the road to Kalgoorlie-Boulder (this conversion from a company town to local government controlled has been addressed in the Roads 2020 Strategy). town. All services are now under the control of local government, • Provision of a town centre focus by implementing the with the exception of power supply, which is the responsibility of Townscape Plan. Western Power. • Provision of improved education and health services. The Kambalda townsite is surrounded by vacant Crown land, The principal planning issues for Kambalda and Kambalda West are: with the exception of freehold land to the north-west of the town • There is a need for council to continue to monitor the native centre and Crown Reserve land to the west. Future development title process and claims on mining tenements and, where in Kambalda is likely to occur in this area, as residential necessary, take a proactive role to minimise the impact on development is generally concentrated in the vicinity. The vacant land identified for future growth. Crown land between the south-west of the main townsite and • The lower cost of land in Kambalda/Kambalda West relative Crown Reserve land could be developed, if needed. There are a to Kalgoorlie-Boulder may result in an increase in demand for number of other areas within the townsite classified as Crown residential lots within Kambalda/Kambalda West. Reserve land. This land could be developed, if needed, once native title claims and other legislative constraints are resolved. • Availability of a variety of lot sizes to attract residential development. The Kambalda West townsite has a vast amount of vacant Crown • The price of gold and nickel and the cost of production will land surrounding and in the core area of the town. Most of this is be important factors. subject to encumbrances under the State Agreement Act and • Loss of employment due to restructuring of mining native title claims. This is with the exception of a superlot owned companies and technological improvements. by Western Mining with potential to provide more than 100 residential lots, but which cannot currently be released due to • The need for the Shire of Coolgardie to continue to discuss nearby drilling. Potential for development exists in the north-west future land needs with WMC Resources Ltd, as development of the town, which is currently owned by WMC Resources Ltd. and sale of WMC Resources Ltd’s private land could resolve Land south of Quandong Road also has some development any potential land shortage. potential for larger broadacre or rural-residential lots. • Implementation of the Townscape Plan. • The need for additional general practitioners in Kambalda.

34 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

0 200 400 Metres LEGEND

Potential Area for Future Development

Townsite Boundary

LEGEND - Indicative Land Use (Existing TPS Zones and Reserves)

Residential CH Court House DR Drainage Special Use PS Pre-School S DR Civil and Cultural S School PS AD SP RO SP Swimming Pool DR CH P W Light Industrial P Police Station

S W K C Commercial W Water O R W Potential Area for Recreation Future Development W Rural/Mining Major Highway

U M E Public Purposes Townsite Boundary

Produced by Project Mapping Section, ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig8.z50 Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Department of Land Administration, W.A.

Figure 8: Kambalda West

35 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Norseman – District Service Centre Ravensthorpe – District Service Centre Many residents of Norseman townsite (population of 1,516 in Ravensthorpe (refer Figure 10) is an important stopping point 1996) are employees of Central Norseman Gold or related for travellers and freight vehicles on journeys between Perth, contractor companies. Minor growth could result from the Esperance and Albany. development of the Maggie Hays nickel mine to the west of Land with development potential includes an area south of the Norseman. Such development could reinvigorate the service role town on Martin Street, land to the east on either side of Jameson of the town, as could the sealing of the Norseman-Hyden Road, Street and to the north along Scott Street. The town planning which has the potential to become a major tourist link. There is scheme should be updated to identify areas for future adequate land for residential development, and many housing lots development and land constrained by native title and other issues. are vacant and readily serviced. The expansion of the town is dependent on the provision of an The western part of Norseman (refer Figure 9) is restricted by the adequate water supply. Currently, Water Corporation is providing availability of water, and most of the land in this area is Crown additional water to the surface supplies from an experimental lease or vacant Crown land. Most of the existing freehold desalinisation plant utilising brackish artesian water. Land is residential lots are coded R10. Group housing development could available in the town should it experience growth. It is expected to be accommodated by amalgamation and redevelopment of remain as the administrative centre due to its better provision of existing lots and provision of services. services, although Hopetoun is likely to attract more residents in the future given its coastal location. The principal planning issues for Norseman are: • Identification of residential land and upgrading of the water There are currently two mineral developments in this shire, supply and other infrastructure services for lot development. namely the nickel laterite deposit near Bandalup (Comet Resources) and the Rav8 sulphide nickel mine (Tectonic • Identification of land suitable for higher density housing. Resources NL). It is likely that bringing these deposits into • Improvement of health care facilities such as: production will have a significant impact on population growth • The need to administer health services from Esperance. and land requirements to both Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun. • Replacement of the Norseman District Hospital by a Comet Resources has completed a feasibility study for its nickel multi-purpose health centre. laterite project. An estimated 270 employees and their families will • Extension of aged care to include a separate hostel. be based in Ravensthorpe and/or Hopetoun should the Comet Resources project proceed. The project is expected to be in • Expansion of allied health services. operation by mid 2001. • Further development of the tourist potential of Norseman The principal planning issues for Ravensthorpe are: given its location at the meeting point of two major highways and for its historic attractions. • The need to upgrade health and education facilities: • Maintenance and expansion of the Ravensthorpe Hospital. • Strategies to retain and attract additional doctors to the area. • More experienced teachers at local schools. • Upgrading of the Ravensthorpe Primary School. • Additional hostel accommodation for the aged. • Improvement of the airstrip to meet the year-round needs of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. • Identification of areas for future residential development and land constrained by native title. • The Shire of Ravensthorpe Town Planning Scheme is due for review. • Provision of an appropriate water supply for the town. • Facilitation of mining activities in the region through upgrading of infrastructure.

36 PART 1 – BACKGROUND

0 250 500 Metres 1 LEGEND Potential Area for Future Development

Townsite Boundary

Y A W H IG LEGEND - Indicative Land Use (Existing TPS Zones and Reserves) H

E R Y Residential Public Purposes E W AL Aerial Landing

Y Commercial A

W H Hospital

H S School Special Purpose S W Water Corporation Rural Railway

W Recreation Major Highway

ESPERANCE H Industrial Townsite Boundary AL Potential Area for LGARDIE Future Development

COO

Produced by Project Mapping Section, ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig9.z50 Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Department of Land Administration, W.A.

Figure 9: Norseman

37 PART 1 - BACKGROUND N

0 100 200 Metres LEGEND

Potential Area for Future Development

Townsite Boundary

LEGEND - Indicative Land Use (Existing TPS Zones and Reserves)

Residential Public Purposes

FS Fire Station Commercial H Hospital

HWY Special Use HS Hall Site FS WS SES Caravan Park PS Power Station Site COAST HS SOUTH SCH SCH School Site Private Club and Institution PS SES State Emergency Service H Industrial WS Water Supply Potential Area for Light Industrial Future Development Rural Major Highway

Recreation Townsite Boundary

Produced by Project Mapping Section, ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig10.z50 Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Department of Land Administration, W.A.

Figure 10: Ravensthorpe

38 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Menzies – Local Service Centre Although Menzies is not expected to experience any significant Menzies (refer Figure 11) is a local service centre, which acts as growth over the next 30 years, it should be considered as an option the administrative centre for the shire and is located on the should land be required as a result of shortages in other Goldfields Highway linking Kalgoorlie-Boulder to Meekatharra. surrounding towns in the region. The promotion of Menzies’ Local services include a roadhouse, a small primary school with tourist potential should continue. electronic links to Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Perth, police and In respect of health and education, the Infrastructure Audit nursing facilities and a caravan park. The town has a minor local recognised the importance to this small settlement of the local tourist trade for those wishing to visit local “ghost towns”. nursing post and its staff and the Menzies Remote Community Menzies’ location on the highway and its historic buildings offer School. Menzies has police and ambulance services. The police potential for the town to be further promoted as a tourist stop. In staff retention rate is low, and the ambulance service relies entirely addition it has freehold land which could accommodate future on volunteers. Service availability cannot be guaranteed. employees from nearby mines. Hundreds of freehold lots exist, The principal planning issues for Menzies are: but remain the property of their original owners from the 1890s. The shire council is aiming to ‘activate’ the land by selling them for • Infrastructure requirements for future land releases need to non-payment of rates. This process was commenced two years be rationalised. ago and lots could become available in 2000. The land on the west • A town planning scheme is required to plan and coordinate side of the highway is highly prospective and is covered by a future land releases and infrastructure provision. mining tenement. This land should not be developed until the • A townscape program is needed. area’s mining potential has been determined. Only a limited • The importance of the local health and education facilities number of the lots in the town which may become available are needs to be recognised. serviced, and it will be necessary to rationalise any land release in terms of infrastructure costs. The town would benefit from the • Staff need to be recruited and retained to run police and preparation of a town planning scheme which would facilitate the emergency services. provision of appropriately zoned land.

Heritage buildings in the town should be protected, due to the low level of commercial activity which may lead to buildings being left vacant or allowed to fall into disrepair. This can be addressed through the preparation of a town planning scheme.

39 PART 1 - BACKGROUND N

0 200 400 Metres LEGEND

Potential Area for Future Development Land Development Constrained by High Ground Level Townsite Boundary

LEGEND - Land Tenure

Crown Reserve Railway

AY W H IG H Crown Lease Potential Area for Future Development Land Development State Government Constrained by High Ground Level Vacant Crown Land Major Highway

Local Government Townsite Boundary

Private Freehold Land

Commonwealth

S Government

L ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig11.z50

O Produced by Project Mapping Section, G Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Department of Land Administration, W.A.

Figure 11: Menzies

40 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Eucla – Local Service Centre Australian Bight. If the proposed additions to the Conservation Eucla (refer Figure 12) is a small service centre with all Estate are made this could lead to additional tourism government employees housed in Government Employees opportunities. CALM would need to have a presence in the Housing Authority (GEHA) housing. The town requires the Nullarbor, possibly with an office at Eucla. The Infrastructure provision of better infrastructure services, particularly potable Audit identified the need for a school in the future. water and electricity. An upgraded electricity supply system may The principal planning issues for Eucla are: be considered on the basis of a competitively sourced supply that is consistent with the Regional Power Policy. • The need for better recognition and further promotion of Eucla as a service centre for tourism. The State is currently considering undertaking a pilot power • The need to upgrade and establish a properly serviced procurement process to supply power in three large remote settlement. Aboriginal communities. Subject to a successful outcome, the • The provision of infrastructure, especially water and scope of the procurement process could be expanded to include electricity, needs to be addressed. other large remote communities (both Aboriginal and non- Aboriginal). At that stage, Eucla may be considered for inclusion • Consideration of the need for a school in the long term in an expanded power procurement process. should there be adequate demand.

Some growth is expected over the next 30 years as a result of Hopetoun – Local Service Centre Eucla’s status as the Eastern Gateway to Western Australia, and Hopetoun (refer Figure 13) is an attractive, though relatively there is scope for ecotourism on the Nullarbor Plain and Great isolated, town on the Southern Ocean coastline, and it is home to a number of retirees, second home owners (holiday homes), local farmers, fishermen and those opting for an “alternative” lifestyle. Growth as a result of this demand is expected to continue. Hopetoun’s permanent population (320 in 1996) could increase significantly, and holiday peak demands also need to be catered for. During summer, Hopetoun’s population increases from the current base of about 355 to between 2,500 and 3,000 people. This puts a strain on existing infrastructure and services.

Development in Hopetoun is constrained by production from the town borefield, the lack of a sewerage scheme, the prominence of

HIGHWAY Ravensthorpe as the primary centre for the shire and conservation YRE E areas nearby. Expansion can occur to the north-east and north- west of the town.

The principal planning issues for Hopetoun are: • A full-time nursing post in Hopetoun is needed. • Health and education facilities need upgrading. In the long term, a junior primary school is needed, so that children do LEGEND - Indicative Land Use not have to travel to Ravensthorpe. Residential N • Potential areas for future residential development may be 0 200 400 Special Purpose constrained by native title. Metres • The Shire of Ravensthorpe Town Planning Scheme is due for Rural a review. Recreation • An appropriate water supply for the town is needed.

Potential Area for Future Development

Major Highway

Figure 12: Eucla

41 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

0 100 200 Metres LEGEND

Potential Area for Future Development

Townsite Boundary

LEGEND - Indicative Land Use (Existing TPS Zones and Reserves)

Residential Rural

E Commercial Recreation

S GD Special Use Port Installation PS

HD Caravan Park Public Purposes

A GD Government Depot

V Private Club and Institution HD Historical Display

Industrial PS Power Station

Potential Area for Light Industrial Future Development

Southern Ocean Produced by Project Mapping Section, ntw-map11\ \strat_pol\ \gerps\ \gef_fig13.z50 Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Cadastral and Ortho-Image Data supplied by Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Department of Land Administration, W.A.

Figure 13: Hopetoun

42 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Warburton – Local Service Centre The shire has nine remote community schools, with 343 students Warburton (refer Figure 14) has a population of 457, 400 of whom and 33 teachers. Strategies are needed to address Aboriginal are Aboriginal persons (1996, ABS Census). Warburton was education issues, particularly nutrition and health, the suitability originally an Aboriginal mission and is now a local service centre, of curricula, retaining students beyond compulsory schooling, and servicing eight remote Aboriginal communities in the district and parental support. the Warburton community within the town. The town contains a The principal planning issues for the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku are: number of community services and facilities, including roadhouse, • Unsealed internal roads in larger communities are causing a primary school, swimming pool and small nursing post. There are dust problem and the condition of access roads to a number approximately 80 residential dwellings in the town. of large, remote communities is poor. The Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku is a relatively new local government • Isolation of Aboriginal people from the mainstream economy authority, and its isolation means monitoring and patrolling has the potential of resulting in greater social and economic police and emergency services is an onerous task. The only disadvantage. emergency service currently available is a police patrol from • There is a lack of adequate community services. Laverton Police Station. A permanent police station should be • Telecommunication facilities need to be provided. based in Warburton. Aboriginal Communities The local roads in the townsite have recently been sealed, however In 1996, nine per cent of the total Western Australian Aboriginal roads to the communities within the shire are all unsealed. population lived in this region. This represented more than eight Current initiatives in Warburton are the development of a per cent of the total population in the Goldfields-Esperance Cultural Centre and the “glass art” project. Region. There are currently 25 known Aboriginal communities in the region. A large proportion of the Aboriginal communities within the region are in the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku, including Warburton, Tjirrkarli, Mantamaru, Papulankutja, Irrunytju, Tjukurla, Wannan, Patjarr, Warakurna. Other communities in the region include: Karrku Homelands, Cosmo Newberry, Paupiyala Tjarutja, Upurl Upurlila Ngurratja, Nurra Kurramunoo, Wilja Hostel, AMOS, Nambi Road Village, Ninga Mia, Mingarwee, Kurrawang, Earagull, Wongatha Wonganarra Village (Figure 15).

A significant proportion of Aboriginal people are living in improvised homes, and although this has improved, a need for more appropriate housing is evident. According to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) Housing and Community Infrastructure Needs Survey (1992), all of the Aboriginal communities surveyed in the region (Wongatha and Western Desert/Central Reserves ATSIC Regions) had a N maintained water supply system, although a number of sewerage systems did not work satisfactorily. 0 200 400

Metres The Infrastructure Audit addressed Aboriginal health issues in general and recommended the following improvements for the LEGEND - Indicative Land Use Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku: Residential Light Industrial • A Ngaanyatjarraku Health Advisory Board is required for communicable disease control. Commercial Aboriginal Reserve • Birthing facilities are needed. Private Institution Recreation • Strategies are needed to address alcohol and substance abuse.

Tourist Development Public Purposes

Figure 14: Warburton

43 PART 1 - BACKGROUND LEGEND

KIMBERLEY ✪ Regional Centre PILBARA

GASCOYNE

❖ Sub-Regional Centre MID-WEST

GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE ❉ District Service Centre WHEATBELT PERTH PEEL

GREAT SOUTHERN ✦ Local Service Centre SOUTH-WEST Index to Study Area

Aboriginal Communities(Indicative only)

Large Community

Minor Community

Outstation Tjukurla

Patjarr Town Reserve Karrku

Warakurna Major Road Wannan

Railway Papulankutja (Blackstone) Tjirrkarli Warburton❉ Non-perennial Lake Mantamaru (Jameson) Irrunytju (Wingellina) Study Boundary

Leinster Nurra Kurramunoo (Mulga Queen) ❉

Wilja Hostel Cosmo Newberry Laverton ❉ Leonora Wongatha Wonganarra Village Nambi Road ❖ Village Amos

Linden Paupiyala Tjarutja (Tjuntjuntjara )

Marmion Village ✦ Menzies

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Coolgardie ❉ ✪ Ningia Mia Cunderlee Kurrawang Mingarwee ❉ Upurl Upurlila Ngurratja( Coonana ) Kambalda ✦ Widgiemooltha Eucla✦ Earagull

Norseman ❉

Salmon Gums ✦ Grass Patch ✦ Gibson N Ravensthorpe ✦ ❉ ✦Munglinup ❖ ✦Condingup ✦ Esperance 0 50 100 150 Hopetoun Kilometres

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Southern Ocean ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig15.npj Aboriginal Community Data supplied by Aboriginal Affairs Department, W.A. Study Boundary derived from DOLA’s March 2000 Local Government Boundary Data

Figure 15: Settlement Plan

44 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Health care problems of Aboriginal people were too complex to The Ministry for Planning has employed a consultant to be addressed in detail by the audit. Health infrastructure for undertake consultation with key Aboriginal groups in the region Aboriginal communities needs to be addressed in more detail. to assist in understanding the nature and importance of Aboriginal heritage, land use and infrastructure issues, and the Agreements are currently in place with the three tiers of need to be involved in the planning decision-making process. The government to ensure appropriate local government standards are outcomes of the Aboriginal Communities Consultation Report are met with the provision of power, water, housing and local summarised at Appendix 3. For further details, reference should government services. Priorities for the provision of services are be made to the report. based on the Environmental Health Needs of Aboriginal Communities in Western Australia (The 1997 Survey and its In summary, the results raised by the communities in the Findings) jointly carried out by ATSIC, Aboriginal Affairs northern part of the region generally differed from those in the Department (AAD), Health Department of WA, Health and southern part. Those in the north highlighted the lack of adequate Family Services, Homeswest, WAMA and ABS. infrastructure (particularly water supply, sewerage, power and sealing of roads) and the lack of infrastructure management. The 1997 survey covered the Wongatha and Western Desert ATSIC Regions. Eight communities with a total usual population Communities in the south identified a lack of health care – of 611 were surveyed in the Wongatha Region. Most of the particularly specialist care, child care services and care for the communities are connected to town power and water. The issues aged. Unemployment was a problem, and potential in ecotourism in this region are typically those of a more urban environment was identified as an opportunity for economic development. All where there are high levels of homelessness and alcohol related the communities were considering options for permanent land problems. Although the proportion of separate houses in the tenure. A common concern among communities in the region region was lower than the State average, the level of overcrowding was that, while seeking permanent tenure of their land through in the communities was lower than the State average. In the native title claims, they are worried about jeopardising their Western Desert Region, 24 communities with a total usual current land tenure (eg town reserves). Overall, a number of population of 2,915 were surveyed (only 14 of the communities priorities were identified that related to the key issues of land use are within the Goldfields-Esperance Region). Two communities planning, heritage and infrastructure; and some serious concerns had inadequate water supplies and one small community were raised about the overall planning of Aboriginal community reported no source of electricity. The Western Desert had a low development in the region. proportion of improvised housing. Many of the communities in both regions were rated as having high or excessive levels of dust.

In October 1997, the Ministry for Planning (MfP), AAD and ATSIC released a draft policy “Planning for Aboriginal Communities” to assist in the planning for Aboriginal communities. The draft policy provides a framework for the planning of large permanent Aboriginal communities. The policy proposes that Aboriginal communities should prepare “Community Layout Plans” that are similar to structure plans. These layout plans may include a housing layout strategy, location of existing and likely future infrastructure requirements, services and facilities, open space, civic and community sites and identification of physical or cultural constraints. In the Goldfields-Esperance Region, “Community Layout Plans” have been prepared for the Mulga Queen, Mount Margaret, Nambi Road Village, Wongatha Wonganarra Village, Ninga Mia, Iragul and Coonana communities.

45 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

The principal planning issues for Aboriginal communities Other Settlements – Local Service Centres identified during consultation were: These are small to medium sized centres, with a stable population • The need to involve local Aboriginal communities when base due to continuing agricultural or mining activity. They also planning for future land uses, where appropriate, and to include other small settlements in the region that have been recognise their specific needs in respect to statutory processes established for a specific purpose, or the remnants of larger and allow for extended consultation time. centres that are now limited service providers or bases for tourist- related activity. Some centres have commercial and community • The need for improved health facilities and for further services, although often limited in scope. Such centres in the assessment of the health problems of Aborigines, particularly Goldfields-Esperance sub-region include: Eucla, Warburton, children’s health, specialist services, men’s health and aged care. Wharton, Munglinup, Gibson, Widgiemooltha, Ora Banda, • The need for strategies to address Aboriginal education issues, Agnew, Condingup, Grass Patch, Cascade and Salmon Gums particularly nutrition and health, the suitability of curricula, (Figure 15). retaining students beyond compulsory schooling, and parental involvement. • The lack of adequate infrastructure (particularly water supply, sewerage, power and sealing of roads) in some centres and the lack of infrastructure management, particularly in Aboriginal communities in the northern goldfields. • The need to prepare Community Layout Plans for each major Aboriginal community.

46 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

3.3 HERITAGE AND CULTURE The region has not been subject to a full Aboriginal heritage study and many more sites are yet to be documented. The Goldfields-Esperance Region is rich in Aboriginal and European history. This section will outline the region’s Aboriginal The consultation with Aboriginal communities as part of this and European heritage and culture. regional strategy has identified that there are concerns regarding heritage management. The AAD has a legislative responsibility for the administration of the Aboriginal Heritage Act. 3.3.1 Aboriginal Heritage Prior to contact with Europeans, the Aboriginal population in the 3.3.2 European History and Heritage Goldfields sub-region is estimated to have numbered about 20,000. It is thought that demographic pressures from the eastern The modern history of the region began in 1792 when two French states resulted in a population drift towards the south-west of frigates, while mapping the south coast of Australia, took shelter in Australia before Europeans entered the area. The people of the Esperance Bay. The first ship gave its name to the bay. The French, Western Desert occupied the mid-part and north of the region, the first Europeans to visit the region, explored inland to Pink Lake. while the southern coastal areas were populated by Njunja in the The first settlers, the Dempster brothers, arrived in the Esperance west and the Ngadjunmaia/Mirning in the east. Figure 16 outlines area in 1863. Following the discovery of gold at Coolgardie in the tribal regions as defined by Tindale (1978). 1892, Esperance became the principal port for the Goldfields. Since 1893 many Aboriginal groups living in the eastern However with the opening of the Perth-Coolgardie railway in Goldfields have been dislocated from their traditional areas. There 1896 Esperance suffered a severe setback and became a holiday has been a tendency for groups to move to live on the fringes of and fishing town servicing a modest agricultural belt. European settlement. Although farming began in Ravensthorpe in 1866 it was not until All Aboriginal sites are protected under the Aboriginal Heritage Act, the discovery of gold in 1898 near the Phillips River that the area 1972. There are 1,798 Aboriginal sites registered in the region (as at experienced a boom. As gold reserves diminished, copper rose in October 1998). Aboriginal sites can be broadly categorised as: importance with mines operating in the area until 1972. Today Ravensthorpe is the service centre to the surrounding agricultural • Ethnographic sites which include those sites for which first- areas and will fulfill a similar role for a number of mines being hand Aboriginal comment is or has been available. Examples established in the region. The Ravensthorpe district was once such include a place for rituals, the camping place of a past an active mining centre that a railway between the port at generation or an important source of food or other resources Hopetoun and Ravensthorpe had to be constructed, with spur such as pigment for painting; or lines to the Mount Caitlin Mine (and to the smelters operating in the area) to carry ore, men and supplies. As the gold boom in the • Archaelogical sites, which usually contain physical evidence of area waned, many of the miners turned to farming, but farming Aboriginal occupation such as paintings, engravings and did not flourish until the 1960s. artefacts for tool-making, seed grinding and cooking. These sites may occur in the open but are also found near existing or former water sources, rock shelters, caves and other areas.

47 PART 1 - BACKGROUND LEGEND KIMBERLEY

Tindale Tribal Regions PILBARA

GASCOYNE Major Road MID-WEST

GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE WHEATBELT Non-perennial Lake PERTH PEEL

SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Study Area Index to Study Area

MANDJILDJARA

POTIDJARA KEIADJARA WENAMBA

NJADADJARA

NANA

Warburton

NJAIAWONJGA NANA

PINI NAKAKO TJALKADJARA MANDJINDJA Leinster

KOARA NJALEA Laverton Leonora NANJATADJARA NGURLU WALJEN KELAMAIA Menzies PINDIINI MADUWONJGA MURUNITJA TJERARIDJAL Kalgoorlie-Boulder Coolgardie Kambalda MIRNINJ Eucla

NJADJUNMAIA Norseman

Balladonia KALAAKO NJAKINJAKI N Ravensthorpe NJUNJA Esperance 0 50 100 150 WUDJARI Hopetoun Kilometres

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Southern Ocean ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig16.npj Tindale Tribal Regions Data supplied by Aboriginal Affairs Department, W.A. Study Boundary derived from DOLA’s March 2000 Local Government Boundary Data

Figure 16: Tindale Tribal Regions

48 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Coolgardie, Boulder and Kalgoorlie developed rapidly after gold There is a stark, sunset-red, dusty beauty about the northern part was found. Such rapid development left little time for planning or of the region. The cultural history appears everywhere in the orderly provision of public facilities and services. Coolgardie shape of flat-topped mullock dumps, headframes over the became the largest town to emerge during the 1890s boom with entrances to underground shafts and the grand buildings of its population reaching 15,000 by 1898. The rush to Kalgoorlie Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie which provide reminders of the rich began in 1893 with the discovery of gold by Hannan, Flanagan mining heritage of this part of Western Australia. The region is and Shea. Kalgoorlie in the 1890s was a town of canvas tents, diverse in its culture, varying from the Burt and Hannan Street hessian huts and galvanised iron homes, that about 11,000 people precincts of Kalgoorlie-Boulder to the cluster of little tin huts at called home. Water was scarce, being distilled from bores and Gwalia. In contrast, the southern part of the region is dams, and transported by camel to wherever it was needed. The characterised by farming activities with views of fields of crops pipeline of the Goldfields and Agricultural Water Supply formally and livestock. The coast characterised by long, low curving white opened in 1903, remains the major water supply today. beaches often backed with tall dunes of dense green coastal heath, provides picturesque views, while the rocky headlands and Food supplies were scarce and people lived in unhygienic and offshore islands provide attractive panoramas for tourists. To the poor conditions. As a result there were plagues of flies and east, the Nullarbor landscape is characterised by its flat outbreaks of typhoid fever. Hotels abounded, and many grand topography and arid climate. Striking cliffs occur along the coast ones remain. In the 1930s the State Prospecting Scheme lured with extensive sand dunes towards the South Australian border. greater numbers of men to the Goldfields. Many of them were All these features add to overall environmental and cultural migrants and, as competition for jobs increased, antagonism heritage of the region. increased between the different ethnic groups until a series of riots occurred in 1934. Heritage places are a valuable contribution to the scientific and educational understanding of our past. They stimulate the Kambalda was originally a gold town which boomed between cultural development of society, provide diversity and interest in 1897 and 1906. When the gold ran out, the town lay abandoned the area and are essential components of tourism. until the accidental discovery of nickel in the mid 1950s. In 1966, Western Mining Corporation began development of a nickel Development of a heritage route between the Great Southern and mine and Kambalda was reborn. Menzies, Leonora and Laverton the Goldfields regions is being put forward by the Holland Track were all developed based on gold mining activities. The new town Project Working Group. The route is to be known as Holland Way of Leinster was established to service the nickel mine. Gold was and recognises the track left by John Holland and his party of first discovered in the Norseman area in 1892. settlers in 1893 as an alternative route between Albany and the Goldfields. Large sections of the original track and associated features, such as waterholes and marking pegs still exist and have heritage value similar to the Canning Stock Route.

The development of a world class heritage trail across the Goldfields-Esperance region including: history, tourism, environment, architecture, Aboriginal and industrial components is in a planning stage.

The Commonwealth Government has a heritage listing of sites of national, State, regional and local significance. The State Register of Heritage Places governed by the Heritage Council of Western Australia lists places considered to have heritage and cultural significance. Local governments are required to prepare a Municipal Inventory of places of heritage value. All of the local governments in the region have adopted or are in the process of finalising a Municipal Inventory of Heritage Places.

49 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

3.4 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION The underlying geology and subsequent AND CONSERVATION geomorphological processes have resulted in a gently undulating plateau, occasionally broken Sections 3.4 and 3.5 describe the environment by hills of harder and more resistant rocks of of the region. Section 3.4 discusses the granite and ironstone. The landscape rises environment of the whole region with the gently from the Nullarbor Plain to 425 metres exception of the coastal area, and Section 3.5 in the Great Victoria Desert (Figure 18). discusses the coastal area. For the purposes of this Strategy and due to the diverse nature of the environment the Soils region is divided into three sub-regions – Goldfields, Nullarbor The soils of the region reflect the underlying geology. Within the and Esperance sub-regions – to enable a more accurate Nullarbor sub-region they range from the shallow calcareous soils description (refer Figure 17). of the southern parts to the relatively deep, pink sandy loams of the more northerly areas and the clay and kankar soils of the more westerly Nyanga area. To the north, in the Goldfields sub-region, 3.4.1 Physical Characteristics the Great Victoria Desert and Gibson Desert linear dunes are Geology interspaced with sandy or loamy soils, while the Warburton Range The rocks of the Goldfields-Esperance Region belong to five main is characterised by low rocky ranges separated by sandy plains. geological and structural units (refer Figure 18). Each unit The Esperance sub-region is dominated by sandy surface soils consists of a distinctive suite of rock types which share a common over clay sub soils, while further north the soils are loamy earth location and geological history. The distribution of the five with sandy loams around Leonora and Leinster. geological units is shown in Figure 18. The oldest unit, the Yilgarn In general, the Goldfields-Esperance Region is characterised by Craton consists of granite, gneiss and volcanic and sedimentary deeply weathered soils, generally lacking in nutrients, which are rocks of Archaean age. The volcanic and sedimentary rocks of the highly vulnerable to wind and water erosion. The potential for Yilgarn Craton are generally referred to as greenstones and host all farming and pastoral activities on an ecologically sustainable basis the major gold and nickel mines of the region. The Musgrave is limited, particularly in the Goldfields and Nullarbor sub- Block and Fraser Orogen consist of an assortment of regions. metamorphised and unmetamorphised sedimentary and volcanic rocks ranging from early to mid Proterozoic age. The Climate metamorphised rocks are associated with granite and gneiss. The Climatic patterns vary within the region. The frequency of rain in Officer Basin consists of relatively undeformed and the region varies significantly. The average number of days of rainfall unmetamorphised sedimentary rocks ranging from Late ranges from 33 at Warburton to 65 at Kalgoorlie-Boulder, 83 at Eucla Proterozoic to Mesozoic in age. The Eucla Basin rocks comprise and 140 at Esperance. The air masses bring year-round rainfall to the the limestones of Tertiary age which outcrop on the Nullarbor interior but winter season rains predominate along the coastal belt Plain. Each unit has developed its own geomorphology and and the Nullarbor. Remnants of cyclonic activity in northern landscape, with different potential for minerals and groundwater. Australia bring occasional summer season rain to the region. Deep weathering has occurred in all areas, some of which has taken place beneath a laterite or calcrete cap. The Goldfields sub-region has a semi-arid climate characterised by low rainfall and a large temperature range. Average rainfall is Landforms relatively evenly spread throughout the year. The winter months Deep weathering in the warmer and more humid Cretaceous of May to August have the highest and most reliable average period resulted in chemical weathering of soils to depths of 50 rainfall, but intense rainfall can occur periodically in the summer metres. This deep weathering has resulted in removal of plant months of December to April as a result of tropical cyclones. nutrients from the rainforest which existed at this time and the The Esperance sub-region has a Mediterranean type climate with resulting soil is very infertile. cool wet winters. The warm to hot summers are nearly dry except A later process of laterisation in the drier Oligocene period was for occasional thunderstorms. The coastal fringe experiences a responsible for a hard laterite crust. Deposition of sand above the milder climate than the inland areas as a result of the maritime laterite is thought to have been formed during the last Ice Age influence, and strong winds are a notable feature. The town of 15,000 -18,000 years ago when the climate in Australia was cool, Esperance and the immediate coastal belt receive about 625mm of dry and windy. rainfall annually, which is over 140 rain days.

50 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Vegetation Nullarbor Plain Beard (1990) divides Western Australia into three primary Named from the Latin for No Tree, the centre is totally treeless vegetation provinces (Northern, Eremaean or Desert and South- and covered with a shrub steppe or saltbushes, bluebushes and West) and one vegetation interzone between the South-West and grassland. The plain is surrounded (fringed) by a low open Eremaean. Two of these provinces and the interzone are woodland of mulga and western myall. Along the southern coast, represented in the Goldfields-Esperance Region. Much of the area inland from the dominant spectacular cliffs, is a belt of mallees. north of Kalgoorlie-Boulder is part of the Eremaean Province, with the remainder comprising part of the SW Interzone and a South-West Interzone small portion of the SW Province (refer Figure 19). The South-West Interzone is a transition between the Eremaean and South-West and includes elements from both areas. The The native vegetation has adapted to the soils of the region which Interzone coincides with the Coolgardie Botanical Region which are deeply weathered, generally lacking in nutrients and highly has a number of sub-regions and districts. vulnerable to wind and water erosion. But clearing for farming can lead to salinisation, and unsustainable pastoral activities can Coolgardie Botanical Region cause a decline in native plant communities. The area is dominated by eucalypt woodlands and forest becoming open with saltbush-bluebush understorey on the more Eremaean Province calcareous soils (CALM, 1994). Granite outcrops, salt lakes and The Eremaean Province includes all of the deserts and the majority sandplains provide habitats for particular flora and fauna. The of the pastoral areas. The vegetation consists of desert grasslands of sandplains are dominated by dense shrubland with mallees. spinifex and shrub with low woodlands dominated by mulga The higher hills and greenstone belts, more resistant to erosion, (Acacia aneura), which increases in size and frequency in the south. have specific vegetation associations of Eucalypt woodland and The province is divided into a number of botanical regions. shrub country. Great Victoria Desert The desert coincides with the sandstones of the Officer Basin. South-West Province Weathering has formed extensive sand dunes and sandplains Mallee Region supporting spinifex hummock grassland with scattered trees, Approximately half of the Mallee Region extends into the study numerous mallees and shrubs. The marble gum, Eucalyptus area from Ravensthorpe to east of Salmon Gums. Here the gongylocarpa, is the characteristic tree. Breakaway country, formed vegetation is dominated by a large variety of mallees particularly by underlying Mesozoic rocks, and interdune swales usually have Eucalyptus eremophilia which occur in the valleys. Scrub-heath open mulga woodland associations. and thickets of Allocasuarina occur on the upper plateaux. Gibson Desert Esperance Plains Region Coinciding with the higher plain of the Officer Basin, the Gibson This narrow strip which includes Esperance is dominated by Desert has areas which have been swept bare exposing the scrub and mallee heath on the sandplains. The most common and underlying laterite. It is poorly vegetated with spinifex, low open characteristic species, Eucalyptus tetragona (tallerak) is a low mulga woodland and shrub steppe. mallee of gnarled form with large blue-green leaves and a silvery Central Ranges Region bloom (Beard, 1990). It rarely grows to 3.5m in height. Mallees, East of the Gibson Desert, the Central Ranges around Warburton particularly Eucalyptus redunca and Eucalyptus incrassata,occupy and east from there support a unique vegetation complex. Mulga valleys. Banksias are common. woodland and desert oak occur on the lower land with the ranges Beard (1990) ascribes the relatively luxuriant vegetation on and hills supporting sparse plant growth dominated by spinifex the islands of the Recherche Archipelago to lack of burning as with occasional unique microhabitats. the Aborigines were unable to reach them and the islands are Murchison Region still substantially unburnt. Even on the granite outcrops where Mulga and other acacias are dominant in the Murchison Region, soil has developed the plants are denser and taller than those growing taller and more dense in the southern area. Where soil on the mainland. conditions are favourable it grows as a tree forming a low woodland. On sandplains, with saline and heavy alkaline soils other associations occur, including shrubs and spinifex.

51 PART 1 - BACKGROUND LEGEND KIMBERLEY

Goldfields Sub-Region PILBARA

GASCOYNE Nullarbor Sub-Region MID-WEST

GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE WHEATBELT Esperance Sub-Region PERTH PEEL

SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Local Government Boundary Index to Study Area

Major Road

Non-perennial Lake

Study Boundary

NGAANYATJARRAKU

Warburton

Leinster LAVERTON LEONORA

Laverton Leonora

Menzies MENZIES

Kalgoorlie-Boulder KALGOORLIE-BOULDER Coolgardie Kambalda

COOLGARDIE Eucla DUNDAS Norseman

Balladonia

ESPERANCE N Ravensthorpe

RAVENSTHORPE Esperance 0 50 100 150 Hopetoun Kilometres

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Southern Ocean ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig17.npj Local Government Boundary Data supplied by Department of Land Administration W.A. Study Boundary derived from DOLA’s March 2000 Local Government Boundary Data

Figure 17: Study Area Sub-Regions

52 Age - Million Years(Ma) PART 1 – BACKGROUND 0 5 Alluvial, Shoreline, and Eolian Deposits LEGEND Marine Limestone, Sandstone, and Valley-Fill Deposits 100 KIMBERLEY Marine and Continental Sedimentary Rocks Major Road

Marine and Continental Sedimentary Rocks PILBARA

Marine and Continental Sedimentary and Volcanic Rocks Main Geological Unit Boundary GASCOYNE 500 PHANEROZOIC 1 MID-WEST Non-perennial Lake GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE

Sandstone WHEATBELT PERTH PEEL

1000 Study Boundary SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN

Gneiss Index to Study Area Granite and Gneiss Granite Metavolcanic Rocks Metavolcanic Note: Not all geological formations depicted in Metasedimentary Rocks

Sandstone the legend are found within Study Area. Basic and Ultrabasic Intrusive Rocks Intrusive Basic and Ultrabasic PROTEROZOIC Basalt

2000 Sandstone and Shale Granite and Gneiss Granite Basalt Armadeus Metasedimentary Rocks Metamorphosed Volcanic and Basic Intrusive Rocks and Basic Intrusive Canning Basin Basin

Musgrave 3000 and Shale Iron Formation Earaheedy Complex Basin

and Acid Volcanic Rocks Volcanic and Acid Warburton ARCHAEAN Granite and Gneiss Granite Volcanic and Intrusive Rocks and Intrusive Volcanic Metamorphosed Sedimentary Basalt, Dacite, and Sandstone Basalt, Dacite, Metamorphosed Basic and Ultrabasic

3700 Gunbarrel Basin

Leinster

Laverton Leonora

Menzies

Yilgarn Craton Kalgoorlie-Boulder Eucla Basin Coolgardie Kambalda

Bremer Eucla Basin Norseman

Albany-Fraser Orogen Ravensthorpe Bremer Esperance N Basin Hopetoun 0 50 100 150

Kilometres

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Southern Ocean ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig18.npj Geological Data supplied by Department of Minerals and Energy, W.A.

Figure 18: Geology

53 PART 1 - BACKGROUND LEGEND Natural Vegetation Provinces KIMBERLEY South-West Province PILBARA

South-Western Interzone Province GASCOYNE MID-WEST

GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE Eremaean Province WHEATBELT PERTH PEEL

Vegetation Character Type Boundary SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Index to Study Area Major Road

Non-perennial Lake

Study Boundary

Gibson Desert Central

Ranges

Warburton

Leinster Great Victoria Desert Laverton

Leonora Murchison

Menzies

Nullarbor Coolgardie Kalgoorlie-Boulder Kambalda Eucla Coolgardie Norseman

Mallee

Ravensthorpe N Esperance

Hopetoun 0 50 100 150

Esperance Plains Kilometres

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Southern Ocean ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig19.npj Vegetation data supplied by Agriculture W.A. Study Boundary derived from DOLA’s March 2000 Local Government Boundary Data

Figure 19: Vegetation Character Types

54 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Hydrology and Water Resources Drinking water resources are extremely valuable within the region The region, with the exception of the coastal area, is the driest in due to the relatively scarce nature of water supply at a quality Western Australia. Rainfall is infrequent and occurs erratically suitable for drinking water. Most groundwater sources are throughout the year. Water resources in the region can be divided marginally saline to saline. into two components: surface water and groundwater (Figure 20). In the region, several Water Reserves and Catchment Areas exist The largely featureless low-lying Great Victoria Desert and for the purpose of town water supply and are managed by the Nullarbor Plain make up the eastern part of the region, which has Water and Rivers Commission (WRC). These are as follows: very few sources of permanent water. Where streams exist, they Esperance, Bremer Bay, Hopetoun, Condingup, Gibson, Salmon are usually short and flow only after rain draining into shallow Gums, Menzies, Laverton, Leonora. lakes which are generally salty. In addition several water supplies for Aboriginal communities The Kalgoorlie Plain is characterised by ancient drainage lines exist. The protection of these supplies is delegated to the Water which have been reduced to linear strings of saline lakes. Lake and Rivers Commission. They include: Tjukurla, Warakuma, Lefroy and Lake Cowan are two well-known saline lakes between Tjirrkarli, Wingellina, Blackstone, Cosmo Newberry and Norseman and Kambalda. Fresh surface water is limited to Coonana. shallow claypans which fill after heavy rains and retain water for Water Reserves and Catchment Areas are proclaimed under the some months. Country Areas Water Supply Act (1947) in order to protect the The hydrogeology of the Kalgoorlie and Nullarbor Plains is quality of water sources in country Western Australia. The Act’s complex, reflecting the variety of bedrock types, the structure, and by-laws enable the Water and Rivers Commission to control the degree of weathering and fracturing. Recharge is low because potentially polluting activities, regulate land use, inspect premises of the low rainfall, high evaporation, heavy soils, well-developed and take steps to prevent or clean up pollution. The WRC also vegetation cover and internal drainage. Most groundwater in this manages the protection of Aboriginal water supplies. part of the region is saline or hypersaline. Brackish groundwater Several of these water reserves are currently in the process of occurs only in small elevated areas. review. This may involve the delegation level of source protection The Esperance sub-region has many surface rivers and streams. based on land tenure and the strategic supply of the source. There are numerous small to large permanent lakes, with some intermittent tiny lakes and swamps and small to large areas Landscape Analysis subject to inundation. The largest lakes, Pink and Warden, are Eight landscape character types with sub-types have been located near the townsite of Esperance. Three large river systems identified in the study area (Figure 21) from work conducted by pass through the sub-region, the Oldfield, Young and Lort. All CALM (1994). These are the Kalgoorlie Plain, the Nullarbor, part begin about 100 kilometres inland on the edge of the Yilgarn of the Meekatharra Plateau, part of the Great Victoria Desert, the plateau and flow to intermittent estuaries. The region’s fresh Warburton Range, part of the Central Sandplains and part of the groundwater resources are constrained to the Esperance Coastal Gibson Desert. The Esperance Plain is identified as a Wheatbelt Plain. The major groundwater resources in the Esperance sub- Plateau landscape character sub-type. region are contained in regional, catchment controlled flow Kalgoorlie Plain systems, where it slowly migrates under gravity towards the rivers The topography is gentle with many long shallow salt lakes, and oceans. Groundwater salinity in the Esperance sub-region is conspicuous hills and low ranges. Salmon gum woodlands closely related to rainfall and evaporation with a general trend of dominate extensive areas, with low mallees and heath over rich increasing salinity towards the north. red soils. Groundwater resources in Ravensthorpe are limited by the lack of Nullarbor major aquifer systems and the prevalence of high groundwater The central part of the Nullarbor Landscape Character Type is salinity over most of the area. The potential for groundwater characterised by the vast open treeless plain and the flat arid development is highest in the south of Ravensthorpe within topography. Striking cliffs occur along the coastal margins along superficial, sedimentary and fractured-rock aquifers. with extensive sand dunes towards the South Australian border. Groundwater resources in the northern portion of Ravensthorpe are saline to hypersaline and limited to the Werrillup Formation within palaeodrainages beneath the salt lakes.

55 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Esperance Plains The Deserts This landscape character sub-type is at the North of the Nullarbor and east of the southern fringe of the Wheatbelt Plateau and is Meekatharra Plateau, lie the Great Victoria, characterised by cropping and livestock Little Sandy and Gibson Deserts, the Central farming activities. Remnant vegetation of a low Sandplains and the Warburton Range. These heath interspersed with bush mallees provide areas each have individual characteristics, contrast as does the isolated pocket of taller including linear sand ridges in the Great salmon gum (Eucalyptus salmonophloia) near Victoria and Little Sandy Deserts and the Ravensthorpe. Broad river valleys cross the plain which are Central Sandplains. Vegetation varies from hummock grass and generally well vegetated with taller dense heath. spinifex in the Little Sandy and Gibson Deserts to tall, open Acacia and Eucalypt shrubland on the Central Sandplains. The Meekatharra Plateau Warburton Range provide some contrast being a low plateau with This area is typified by gently undulating plains and low, rugged numerous small ranges. ranges and hills. Rock outcrops occur on the ranges and below breakaways. Small erosional breakaways and flat-topped mesas provide evidence of the former plateau (CALM, 1994). The vegetation is described as having a diverse, contrasting mixture dominated by acacias, most notably the mulga. The trees sometimes appear in scattered groves exposing the rich colour of the sandy plain or at almost evenly spaced intervals.

56 PART 1 – BACKGROUND LEGEND

KIMBERLEY Artesian Groundwater Basin

PILBARA Capricorn River Basins GASCOYNE

MID-WEST Yilgarn - Murchison 1 Surface Water Drainage Divisions GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE WHEATBELT 022 Nullarbor Basin PERTH Yilgarn - South-West 023 Warburton Basin PEEL 024 Salt Lake Basin SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Yilgarn - Goldfields 025 Sandy Desert Basin Index to Study Area 026 Mackay Basin Bremer 601 Esperance Coast 615 Avon River Albany - Fraser 619 Ninghan 602 Albany Coast Canning Major Road

Amadeus Non-perennial Lake 026 Study Boundary 025 Musgrave

Officer

Eucla

Warburton

023

Leinster

Laverton Leonora

619 Menzies

024

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Coolgardie Kambalda 022 615 Eucla

Norseman

Balladonia

N Ravensthorpe 601 Esperance 602 0 50 100 150 Hopetoun Kilometres

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Southern Ocean ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig20.npj

Surface and Groundwater Data supplied by Water and Rivers Commission, W.A. Study Boundary derived from DOLA’s March 2000 Local Government Boundary Data

Figure 20: Surface Water Drainage and Groundwater Basins

57 PART 1 - BACKGROUND LEGEND

Wheatbelt Plateau KIMBERLEY

PILBARA Kalgoorlie Plain GASCOYNE

MID-WEST The Nullarbor GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE WHEATBELT PERTH Meekatharra Plateau PEEL

SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Great Victoria Index to Study Area Desert Dunefields

Warburton Ranges

Central Sandplains

Gibson Desert

Major Road

Non-perennial Lake

Study Boundary

Warburton

Leinster

Laverton

Leonora

Menzies

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Coolgardie Kambalda

Eucla

Norseman

N Ravensthorpe Esperance 0 50 100 150 Hopetoun Kilometres

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Southern Ocean ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig21.npj Landscape Character Types Data supplied by Agriculture, W.A. Study Boundary derived from DOLA’s March 2000 Local Government Boundary Data

Figure 21: Landscape Character Types

58 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

3.4.2 Land Degradation The Esperance agricultural area is estimated to have 1.5 – 3 per Much of the region has been altered since settlement with a large cent of its land area affected by salinity, be at risk of seasonal area around Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the northern Nullarbor Plain waterlogging and to have a high to moderate risk of wind erosion. being used for the pastoral industry and much of the land around Moderate to severe water repellence and soil compaction are also Esperance being farmland. factors (Soil and Land Conservation Council, 1991). Under the State Salinity Action Plan CALM is coordinating in conjunction The Decade of Landcare Plan: Western Australia: An action program with community interest groups, the preparation of a catchment for sustainable use of agricultural and pastoral lands (Soil and Land recovery plan for the Lake Warden Catchment. Conservation Council, AgWA, 1992) identified degradation of rangelands in all pastoral zones with vegetation decline, wind Fire has a very important role to play in changing vegetation types erosion and water erosion being the main components. In the particularly since the Aboriginal population is no longer Goldfields rangeland vegetation decline is estimated to affect 12 extensively burning many of the desert areas. Much of the land in per cent of the area, while 25 per cent of the Nullarbor is affected. the Esperance sub-region is designated as unallocated Crown land Wind erosion affects 3 per cent of the Goldfields area and 2 per for which the Department of Land Administration is responsible. cent of the Nullarbor. Sheeting and rilling is also present in the Under the Bush Fires Act, 1954 local government is responsible for Goldfields area affecting 3 per cent while gullying is not as critical implementing fire strategies for unallocated Crown land within at 0.5 per cent. their boundary. Bushfires have the capacity to change the vegetation regime considerably and certain plant species are Land degradation and potential loss of biological diversity favoured to the detriment of others. resulting from overgrazing of stock is a distinct threat. Overgrazing by feral animals such as horses, donkeys, goats, The Centre for Management of Arid Environments (CMAE) camels and rabbits presents a loss not only to biological diversity established at Curtin University, Kalgoorlie, adds another research but also to animal production in the rangelands. Combined with and teaching specialty and will, amongst other things, highlight alterations to the hydrological regime, clearing of vegetation, the capabilities of Kalgoorlie-based land rehabilitation specialists. invasion by weeds and uncontrolled fire present considerable This project, to develop the City as a major centre for research and potential loss to biological diversity. teaching in subjects linked to arid land management, has been progressing steadily over the past few years. There are currently There are a number of rare and endangered species of flora and two research projects – one at the Kundana minesite and the other fauna in the region which are threatened by habitat fragmentation at Sturt Meadows in the northern Goldfields. A business plan for and loss of habitat because of land degradation. Rabbit grazing in the centre has been prepared and a grant application to the the Nullarbor Plain has had an impact on bird species while Western Australian Government for a Centre of Excellence grant uncontrolled access to the cave system can destroy subterranean has been submitted. fauna which may be restricted to the Nullarbor caves (Morton et al, 1995). The CMAE is co-located with Agriculture WA in Kalgoorlie, in a purpose-built building on land provided by Curtin University and Significant clearance of native vegetation has occurred in the with building costs jointly contributed. region (the South-West Province) which is recognised as a biodiversity “hotspot” (Morton et al, 1995). The general effects of Implications clearing are well known and include: • Land use practices should prevent land degradation and work • Rise in water table levels. should be aimed at rehabilitation of land already damaged by • Salinity problems. past management techniques, which are now known to be • Effect on regional rainfall patterns. inappropriate for the long term sustainability of agriculture within the region. • Contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. • Remediation of rangeland degradation is ongoing between • Destruction of wildlife habitat. Agriculture Western Australia and pastoralists. Pastoral • Fragmentation of wildlife habitat. managers should develop a better understanding of all • Sedimentation of wetlands. rangeland processes. Policy development and management is • Waterlogging and soil acidity. a regional responsibility. • Many management issues are best dealt with at the local level through Land Conservation District Committees. Community awareness of landcare should be improved.

59 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

• Where severe salinity problems are evident in agricultural The additional land is justified because there is very poor areas, the Western Australian Salinity Action Plan (AgWA, representation in the conservation estate of some biological sub- CALM, DEP, WRC, 1996) can assist in alleviating the regions particularly the Goldfields eucalypt woodlands and the problem. Salinity and waterlogging need to be addressed on a mulga woodlands. CALM will pursue the objective of increasing catchment basis. Remedial actions should be implemented conservation estate representation through acquisition of pastoral and supported on a catchment basis. Clearing controls, tree leases and conversion of unallocated Crown land. Tenures will planting and higher water use agronomic systems should be subsequently be changed to suit the protection and management encouraged. Strategic revegetation of salt-affected areas with of these areas. trees and shrubs also assists with water erosion and CALM recognises the historical association between the local waterlogging problems. Retention of stubble, crop rotations indigenous population and the land and has undertaken to and minimum tillage can assist in the control of wind erosion continue to liaise and negotiate with local communities in regard and subsoil compaction. to land, wildlife management and tenure, as well as involving • Land rehabilitation by mining companies, which is now them in contract work and in planning and managing CALM required when a mine is closed, should continue. An example managed lands. of a successfully decommissioned mine is the Poseidon mine at Windarra, near Laverton, rehabilitated by WMC Resources Ltd. CALM also manages State Forests and Timber Reserves as well as • There is a need for CALM to protect major vegetation Sandalwood Reserves in the Goldfields sub-region. The timber corridors along the southern coastline and inland from the reserves contain some of the best examples of cut and uncut, arid- coast along river foreshore reserves. Many of these areas are zone eucalypt woodland in the Goldfields (CALM, 1994). The currently either unvested reserves or unallocated Crown land. harvesting of living sandalwood from these reserves is not permitted. The CALM Goldfields Region and South Coast Region • Remnant vegetation within cleared areas is vitally important Management Plans propose that the status of some sandalwood for off-reserve nature conservation and biodiversity. Its values and timber reserves be changed to State Forest. should be recognised and steps taken to protect and enhance it in the long term. The South Coast Region: Regional Management Plan 1992-2002 covers areas outside that covered by this study. Additions to the 3.4.3 Conservation Estate conservation estate (CALM managed land) will be achieved Currently, CALM managed land in the Goldfields-Esperance through extension of the Eucla National Park, extensions to the Region totals around 9.334 million hectares. The CALM South Nuytsland Nature Reserve and a change in status to National Park. Coast Region And Goldfields Region Management Plans propose There are proposals to add a number of conservation parks, additions to the conservation estate of more than 4.554 million notably along the Young and Lort Rivers north of Esperance. New hectares. conservation parks are also proposed for the area north and east of the Fitzgerald River National Park in the Shire of Ravensthorpe and in the vicinity of Lake Johnston. Implementation will be through negotiation as land becomes available.

Implications • There is a need to manage, protect and expand the existing conservation estate to ensure the conservation of representative examples of all biological sub-regions. The connection and consolidation of CALM managed reserves should be promoted.

• There is a need to provide an adequate area and distribution of conservation reserves to ensure representation of the region’s vegetation and associated wildlife to preserve genetic diversity.

60 PART 1 – BACKGROUND LEGEND

Land Tenure KIMBERLEY

Crown Reserve Forest Reserve PILBARA

GASCOYNE

MID-WEST Crown Lease 1 Drain Reserve GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE WHEATBELT PERTH State Government Railway PEEL

SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Unallocated Crown Land Water Features Index to Study Area

Local Government Other

Private Freehold Land Non-perennial Lake

Commonwealth Government Major Road

State Forest Railway

NB: This information has been derived from MfP’s Study Boundary simplified version of DOLA’s Spatial Cadastral Database, and may contain inaccuracies : Some Legend Categories are not visible due to map scale : No Land Tenure detail is shown for Kalgoorlie or Esperance Structure Plan Areas

Warburton

Leinster

Laverton Leonora

Menzies

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Coolgardie Kambalda Eucla

Norseman

N Ravensthorpe Esperance 0 50 100 150 Hopetoun Kilometres

Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Southern Ocean ntw_map18//gerps/gef_fig22.npj Land Tenure Data supplied by Department of Land Administration, W.A. Study Boundary derived from DOLA’s March 2000 Local Government Boundary Data

Figure 22: Existing Land Tenure

61 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

3.5 COASTAL AND MARINE Parks and the Nuytsland Nature Reserve are PROTECTION managed by CALM and do not require specific or detailed evaluation as part of this Strategy. The South Coast sub-region is a vast coastline stretching 1,184 kilometres along the Southern The South Coast Management Group Ocean and three local government areas, comprising six local governments together including Ravensthorpe, Esperance and with State Government agencies has been Dundas. The region has a major port and boat established to provide a forum for coastal harbour in Esperance. There are landing points at Starvation Bay, planning for the Shires of Dundas, Esperance and Ravensthorpe Duke of Orleans Bay, Lucky Bay and Israelite Bay with a boat and extending beyond the regional strategy area to include the harbour at Hopetoun (RAP and SCRIPT4, 1997). The coastline City of Albany, and Shires of Denmark and Jerramungup. includes the following areas of national and international The Report of the Marine Parks and Reserves Selection Working significance: Fitzgerald Biosphere Reserve and Lake Warden Group (Wilson, 1994) recommends: (Ramsar Convention Wetland) at Esperance. In addition there are • The waters of the Recherche Archipelago – between Butty numerous State nature reserves and National Parks along the Head in the west and Israelite Bay in the east, extending to the remaining coastline. limit of the State Territorial Sea, including the areas of State As in most coastal areas, there is growing pressure and demand for waters surrounding the outer islands but excluding the Port of the attractions the area possesses particularly for tourist activities. Esperance – be considered for reservation as a marine reserve The waters of the area are used for a variety of purposes including for multiple purposes including conservation of flora and the port and shipping, commercial and recreational fishing, fauna and public recreation. The proposed marine reserve boating and diving, while the coastal areas offer beach activities, would protect seagrass beds and the diverse wildlife habitats, fishing and bushwalking. Further to the east, there are the including colonies of sea lions, fur seals and seabirds. spectacular cliffs. The south coast has significant environmental, • The creation of a marine reserve adjacent to the Stokes social and economic values that are subject to increasing National Park for the purposes of conservation of flora and pressures. There is a need to provide for proper management and fauna and public recreation, managed in conjunction with the protection of this unique and spectacular coastline. More National Park. specifically, there is a need to provide safe public access along the • The creation of a marine reserve adjacent to the Fitzgerald coast at selected localities and to provide roads, viewing areas and River National Park for conservation of flora and fauna and carparking to ensure inappropriate use does not occur. In relation recreation and added to the Fitzgerald Biosphere Reserve. to the CALM managed estate, the provision of access or facilities • The coast about 50km east and west of Twilight Cove be is determined during the compilation of formal Area surveyed to assess the value of the area as a potential marine Management Plans as required under the CALM Act. reserve for the protection of marine flora and fauna and A number of coastal management plans have been prepared, coastal landforms. including Esperance District, Esperance Eastern Coast, The South Coast Terrestrial and Marine Reserve Integration Study Ravensthorpe District and Hopetoun Foreshore Management Plan. (CALM, 1998) recommends that the area of State waters adjacent These management plans do not deal with the current pressure of to the Fitzgerald Biosphere Reserve be considered as a marine recreation and development. Preparation of a new coastal conservation reserve priority area for the south coast. Further management plan funded by the Coastal Marine Planning assessments of the conservation, social and economic values of Programme will be considered by a Steering Committee this candidate marine conservation reserve area are required. It comprising the Regional Coastal Facilitator, local governments further recommends that the coastal waters between Israelite Bay and State Government agencies. The need for a coastal and Point Culver, east of the Recherche Archipelago, be management plan along the coast of the region to focus on the considered for inclusion in the marine conservation reserve Esperance area, Hopetoun and other nodes of development is system, in recognition of the high conservation values of this area. required as a matter of priority. The coastal areas included in the Fitzgerald River, Stokes, Cape Le Grand and Cape Arid National

4 RAP -The South Coast Regional Assessment Panel, and SCRIPT – The South Coast Regional Initiative Planning Team.

62 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

The study identified a number of key management issues affecting 3.6 ECONOMIC RESOURCES AND PROPOSALS the implementation of marine conservation reserves across the south coast. These include issues of major concern to some Growth and development in the Goldfields-Esperance Region stakeholders and sections of some local communities across the have often been influenced by the health of mining and region, such as access to marine and coastal resources through the agriculture in the region, and the population that lives in the terrestrial conservation estate, and the perception that creation of region. The Goldfields-Esperance Region contributed $3.7 billion reserves will totally exclude activities such as commercial and to Gross State Product in 1997/98, which represented 6.5 per cent recreational fishing, which is not the case. The study recommends of State GDP. During the period 1992/93 to 1996/97, the region’s that public liaison be carried out as a priority to address these Gross State Product increased by 23 per cent (Transport/GEDC, concerns, via a clear explanation of the multiple-use reserve May 1998). While the mining industry dominates economic concept, the different reserve categories and management zoning, activity in the region, the manufacturing and processing sector is and community and stakeholder involvement in the the second largest outside the metropolitan area, with an annual implementation process. turnover of approximately $820 million in 1996/97. Agriculture and fishing made up a smaller but significant contribution to the There is pressure for marine aquaculture development which economy of the region in 1996/97 of approximately $300 million. could be an important addition to the region’s economy. On the negative side, there is potential impact of disease and pollution if Mineral extraction and downstream processing are anticipated to such developments are not adequately monitored. Aquaculture continue to be the major industry sector that will have the greatest developments can be visually intrusive and care will have to be influence in shaping the economic development and transport taken in siting any developments to ensure that the visual amenity system of the region. of the extremely attractive Esperance area is not spoilt. 3.6.1 Mining Implications The mining industry is the principal economic base for much of There is a need to: the region and the distribution of existing mines, future mines • Protect and expand the existing conservation estate. CALM and downstream processing projects and prospective mining managed reserves should be consolidated and connected. areas has a significant influence on the region’s infrastructure • Consider the protection and use of significant marine requirements. Approximately 50 mines currently operate in the environments, especially the Fitzgerald Biosphere coastline region, most of which are located in the central and northern and the Recherche Archipelago coastline through the Goldfields. establishment of CALM Act multiple-use marine reserves, including the establishment of marine sanctuary areas and The two principal ores mined in the region are gold and nickel. In aquaculture/tourism sites. 1998 the gold mining industry in this region was responsible for 63 per cent of the State’s total gold production. 67 per cent of WA’s • Protect significant terrestrial environments, especially the nickel production (including cobalt, platinum and palladium by- unprotected coastal areas as well as existing conservation products) is from the Goldfields Esperance Region (DME reserves, including the outstanding surface and sub-surface Statistics Digest 1998). Mining occurs primarily in the karst features of the Nullarbor. municipalities of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Coolgardie, Dundas, • Provide an integrated planning approach to marine and Laverton, Leonora and Menzies. In the 1998-99 financial year, the terrestrial land uses in marine areas by preparing a coastal mining industry in the Goldfields-Esperance Region contributed plan looking at refining identified Wilson report sites. approximately $2.65 billion to the State Gross Domestic Product • Provide an integrated planning approach to coastal areas (DME Statistics Digest, 1998-99). Other minerals mined in the through preparation of a coastal plan. This will include region include copper, silica sands, silver, granite, chrysoprase, revision of existing coastal management plans along the coast gypsum, limesand and salt. There are currently 25 gold mines and of the region. A focus on the Esperance area, Hopetoun and eight nickel mines operating in the region (DME, 2000) as shown other nodes of development is required as a matter of priority. in Tables 4 & 5 and Figure 23.

63 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Goldfields Sub-Region estimated capital expenditure of $717 million, Northern Goldfields – Over the past decade would be a significant development for the the northern Goldfields in particular has Shire of Ravensthorpe. The project involves experienced significant development. The area mining nickel laterite for processing on site to is a highly prospective mineral province with produce 35,000tpa of nickel metal, and the potential to almost double production of 1,900tpa of cobalt by-product with an expected gold and nickel, and possibly support the capital cost between $600m to $700m. development of a refinery to produce nickel Environmental approvals have been granted metal. Present mining developments and ongoing exploration and the project is anticipated to be in operation by mid 2001 with demonstrates very significant mineral prospectivity and huge an anticipated mine life of 30 years. Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun development potential during the next 20-30 years. Laverton are likely to be the base for workforce accommodation. Another contains several large mines and potential mines which could potential mine in the Ravensthorpe area is the recently discovered lead to moderate population growth in both Laverton and the Trilogy copper/lead/zinc and precious metals deposit currently Shire of Leonora. The Murrin Murrin Nickel Project, the subject of exploration. commissioned in late 1998, will have an impact on the The potential benefits of the Comet Resources proposal for the population of the Shires of Laverton and Leonora, although the area include: mine is principally fly-in/fly-out • Power – the possibility of extending the gas pipeline to the Central Goldfields – Kalgoorlie-Boulder will also experience area (including Esperance) would benefit domestic, business population growth as a result of current and anticipated mine and mining customers. developments. Moderate growth can be expected in the Shires of • Water – increase in, and dependability of, supply; improved Coolgardie, Menzies and Dundas. The Bulong and Cawse nickel quality. mines located within close proximity of Kalgoorlie-Boulder began • Transport – additional freight opportunities, road and airstrip production in 1999 and are projected to have a mine life of 50 and upgrades. 23 years respectively. • Employment opportunities and development of small Many towns in the region are almost wholly reliant on the mining business in the towns of Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun. industry for employment and prone to population decline as a result of mine closures. Recent examples of this include the Tables 4 to 6 are a summary of the operating and potential mines closure of several mines at Kambalda such as Otter and (deposits) in the study area. They outline the number of operating Wannaway mines, which resulted in the loss of significant and potential mines for gold, nickel and miscellaneous minerals numbers of employees. In March 1999, the employment of for each shire. approximately 310 persons by Western Mining Corporation, Stringent rehabilitation rules apply to operating mines covering predominantly residents of Kambalda, was terminated. Mine the beginning, operation and end of any project. Companies are closures can be unpredictable as a consequence of downturns in required to: the global economy. • Flatten the slopes of waste dumps and tailing dams.

Esperance Sub-Region • Remove and bury all rubbish and building structures on site. Moderate growth can be expected in the Shire of Esperance due to • Replace topsoil over designated areas. potential coal/petroleum development and the town’s strategic • Re-seed with native grasses and shrubs. location. The Ravensthorpe Shire should experience population • Comply with environmental commitments made in Notice of growth as a result of current and anticipated mine developments. Intent documents which are included as a condition of A proposed nickel mine operation in the Shire of Ravensthorpe is tenements. an example of the impact a mining operation can have on the Bonds have also been imposed to cover the failure by a company population of a town in the region. Comet Resources has to comply with the rehabilitation condition of leases. conducted a feasibility study in relation to a nickel mine and processing plant near Ravensthorpe. The project, with an

64 PART 1 – BACKGROUND LEGEND

KIMBERLEY Siberia Primary Mineralisation Area PILBARA

GASCOYNE Ora Banda Cawse Major Road 1 MID-WEST Railway GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE WHEATBELT Paddington PERTH Mt Pleasant PEEL Kanowna Belle-Golden Feather Non-perennial Lake SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Index to Study Area Kalgoorlie-Boulder Kundana Study Boundary Mungari West Golden Mile

Coolgardie

Jubilee New Celebration

Kambalda

Enlargement Not to Scale NICKEL & BASE METALS ( Cu,Pb,Zn ) Wingelina Warburton

GOLD & Bronzewing- BASE METALS Mt McClure ( Cu ) Currently in Undeveloped Mine Not in Leinster Darlot Duketon Production Site Production Leinster Gold Copper Gold Agnew-Emu GOLD,NICKEL & Ya m a r n a Mt Margaret BASE METALS Murrin Laverton Murrin L Nickel Gold Nickel Tarmoola Laverton-Lancefield Building Sons of Gwalia-Raeside L Limestone Nickel B Leonora Granny Smith Mt Weld Stone Murrin Rare Earth Coal Murrin East Sunrise Dam GOLD & Menzies Salt Graphite NICKEL Goongarrie Nickel Rare Earth Carosue CawseSee Mt Pleasant Uranium Kundana EnlargementGolden Mile Mungari West Loongana L Jubilee Above

St Ives Eucla GOLD & Balladonia Lignite VANADIUM, TITANIUM & NICKEL Maggie Hays-Emily Ann Central Norseman B Fraser Norseman Range

O’Sullivan N Ravensthorpe Scaddan Ravensthorpe 0 50 100 150 GOLD & Esperance BASE METALS (COPPER) Kilometres Hopetoun Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 ntw_map18//gerps/ge_fig23.npj Mineral Data supplied by Department of Mineral and Energy W.A. Southern Ocean Local Government Boundary supplied by Department of Land Administration W.A. Study Boundary derived from DOLA’s March 2000 Local Government Boundary Data

Figure 23: Primary Mineralisation Areas and Mining Projects

65 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

TABLE 4: Gold Mines and Deposits

Deposit Definitions Large – Contains one million ounces or more contained gold. Medium – Contains 100,000 ounces but less than one million ounces contained gold. Small – Contains 30,000 ounces but less than 100,000 ounces.

Stage Definitions Deposit – Undeveloped site (since 1985) Operating – Currently in production Closed – Mine not currently producing LGA Project Stage Latitude Longitude Size

Coolgardie Kundana Operating -30.7081 121.2372 Large New Celebration Operating -31.0822 121.4305 Large St Ives Operating -31.4589 121.8358 Large Phillips Find/Castle Hill Operating -30.6342 121.033 Medium Lady Ida Operating -30.4955 120.6614 Medium Two Boys North Operating -31.7442 121.7239 Medium Mungari West Deposit -30.778 121.2507 Large Jaurdi Hills Deposit -30.69 120.9236 Medium Lake Cowan Deposit -31.6631 121.8808 Medium Nelson’s Fleet Deposit -31.3005 121.8006 Medium Ellen Dam Deposit -30.9654 121.3849 Small Broads Dam Closed -30.5692 121.108 Medium Bullabulling Closed -31.0078 120.9041 Medium Chalice – Higginsville Closed -31.7911 121.7308 Medium Three Mile Hill Closed -30.9283 121.1969 Medium Barbara – Surprise Closed -30.9633 121.2594 Small Grosmont Closed -31.0594 121.0506 Small

Dundas Central Norseman Operating -32.1992 121.7931 Large

Kalgoorlie/Boulder Golden Mile Operating -30.7847 121.5028 Large Jubilee Operating -31.0344 121.6042 Large Kanowna Belle – Golden Feather Operating -30.57 121.5947 Large Mt Pleasant Operating -30.5294 121.2311 Large Paddington Operating -30.5239 121.3853 Large Binduli Operating -30.8233 121.3875 Medium Woodcutters – Golden Cities Operating -30.4116 121.4065 Medium Mirror Magic Operating -31.0375 121.9369 Small Carosue Deposit -30.1608 122.3583 Large Claypan Dam Deposit -30.575 121.4744 Small Grafters Deposit -30.1911 121.2158 Small Hogans Deposit -31.1352 121.8799 Small Ora Banda Closed -30.3869 121.0586 Large Randalls Closed -31.043 122.2107 Medium Karonie Closed -31.0353 122.5586 Medium

66 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

LGA Project Stage Latitude Longitude Size Siberia – Sand King Closed -30.2117 120.9615 Medium Gordons Closed -30.4517 121.593 Small Grace Darling Closed -30.3939 121.3178 Small Theil Well Closed -30.3457 120.9062 Small

Laverton Granny Smith Operating -29.0788 122.4231 Large Laverton – Lancefield Operating -28.6255 122.49 Large Sunrise Dam Operating -29.0808 122.418 Large Yamarna Deposit -28.18 123.67 Medium Duketon Closed -27.8369 122.2694 Large Famous Blue Closed -27.5633 122.0714 Medium Mikado Closed -28.8408 122.6428 Medium Mt Morgans Closed -28.7708 122.068 Medium King of Creation Closed -28.1555 122.3936 Small

Leonora Agnew – Emu Operating -28.0641 120.4833 Large Bronzewing – Mt McClure Operating -27.3822 121.0039 Large Darlot Operating -27.8846 121.2783 Large Sons of Gwalia – Raeside Operating -28.9183 121.3314 Large Tarmoola Operating -28.6728 121.1617 Large Lawlers Operating -27.9861 120.4964 Medium Red October Operating -29.2464 122.3183 Medium Apollo Hill Deposit -29.1558 121.6747 Medium Linden Deposit -29.2861 122.44 Medium Bannockburn Closed -28.46 120.8919 Medium Kathleen Valley – Bellevue Closed -27.5319 120.5558 Medium Gold Hill/Cardinia Closed -28.6828 121.6812 Small Mount Redcliffe Closed -28.4217 121.5514 Small

Menzies Fish Deposit -29.1008 123.1155 Medium Melita Deposit -29.1851 121.3222 Small Mt Celia Deposit -29.44 122.4633 Small Davyhurst Closed -30.0294 120.6619 Medium Edjudina Closed -29.7778 122.2791 Medium Menzies – Grany Venn Closed -29.6919 121.0192 Medium Orient Well Closed -29.2133 121.4397 Medium Riverina Closed -29.7458 120.563 Medium Kookynie Closed -29.3525 121.4614 Small Pinjin Closed -30.078 122.7306 Small

Ravensthorpe Kundip Closed -33.6855 120.1989 Medium

Source: Department of Minerals and Energy, MINEDEX, June 2000. Full details are provided at Appendix Four.

67 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

TABLE 5: Nickel Mines And Deposits

Large – Contains one million tonnes (1,000Kt) or more contained nickel. Medium – Contains 100,000 tonnes (100Kt) but less than one million tonnes (1,000Kt) contained nickel. Small – Contains at least 10,000 tonnes (10Kt).

Stage Definitions Deposit – Undeveloped site (since 1985) Operating – Currently in production Closed – Mine not currently producing LGA Project Stage Latitude Longitude Size Coolgardie Nepean – Miriam Closed -31.1661 121.0828 Small Spargoville Closed -31.3219 121.4903 Small

Dundas Maggie Hays – Emily Ann Deposit -32.2035 120.4809 Medium Esperance Young River Deposit -33.5792 120.975 Small

Kalgoorlie/Boulder Cawse Operating -30.363 121.143 Large Bulong Operating -30.7339 121.8047 Medium Kambalda Operating -31.1798 121.6761 Medium Silver Swan Operating -30.3937 121.6389 Medium Kalpini Deposit -30.5361 122.0836 Medium Pinnacles Deposit -30.2797 122.3228 Medium Duplex Hill Deposit -30.9556 121.7555 Small Lake Yindarlgooda Deposit -30.7364 122.1453 Small Siberia Closed -30.2569 121.0283 Large Scotia Closed -30.1998 121.2734 Small

Laverton Murrin Murrin Operating -28.7469 121.8878 Large Windarra Closed -28.4889 122.2343 Small

Leonora Leinster Operating -27.8194 120.7041 Large Cosmos Operating -27.6008 120.5747 Small Mt Margaret Deposit -28.366 121.0172 Large Murrin Murrin East Deposit -29.0797 122.175 Large Mertondale Deposit -28.691 121.5707 Small Waite Kauri Deposit -28.6812 121.7144 Small Weebo Bore Deposit -28.0528 120.8205 Small Menzies Goongarrie Nickel Deposit -30.0124 121.1462 Large Highway Deposit -29.8369 121.0761 Medium Lake Rebecca Deposit -30.0742 122.3578 Medium Yerilla Deposit -29.4889 121.9036 Medium Irwin Hills Deposit -29.1561 123.0267 Small Carr Boyd Rocks Closed -30.0672 121.6246 Small

Ngaanyatjarraku Wingelina Deposit -26.0569 128.9639 Large

Ravensthorpe Rav 8 Operating -33.605 120.2989 Small Ravensthorpe Laterite Deposit -33.6361 120.3747 Large

Source: Department of Minerals and Energy, MINEDEX, June 2000. Full details are provided at Appendix Four.

68 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

TABLE 6: Miscellaneous Mines And Deposits

Size – Undefined.

Stage Definitions Deposit – Undeveloped site (since 1985) Operating – Currently in production Closed – Mine not currently producing LGA Commodity Mineral Project Stage Latitude Longitude Size Name Dundas Coal Lignite Balladonia Deposit -31.7833 123.6667 Large Lignite Dimension Granite Fraser Closed -32.2183 122.838 Large Stone Range

Esperance Coal Lignite O’Sullivan Deposit -32.8475 121.4142 Large Graphite Carbon (Fixed) Munglinup Deposit -33.6655 120.8578 Small

Kalgoorlie- Limestone- Lime Loongana Operating -30.9427 127.0361 Large Boulder Limesand Magnesite Magnesite Bulong Deposit -30.75 121.8333 Large Magnesite Silver Silver Nimbus Deposit -30.8 121.6447 Small

Laverton Limestone- Calcium Windarra Operating -28.486 122.1269 Medium Limesand Rare Earths Rare Earth Mt Weld Deposit -28.8639 122.5461 Large Oxides

Menzies Uranium Uranium Mulga Rock Deposit -29.9314 123.9011 Small

Ravensthorpe Magnesite Magnesia Bandalup Closed -33.6111 120.3583 Medium Magnesite

Source: Department of Minerals and Energy, MINEDEX, June 2000. Full details are provided at Appendix Four.

69 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

3.6.2 Basic Raw Materials In contrast, enterprises in Esperance focus on Basic raw materials5 are essential for local road the supply and processing of produce from local and building foundation construction as well fishing (including fish processing), agricultural as for cement and concrete manufacture. In industries and forestry. An abattoir, metal addition, silica sand is used as flux by the fabrication and light engineering are other light Kalgoorlie Nickel Smelter. Backfilling mine manufacturing industries which are important stopes is another large usage of basic raw to the local community. materials. Further development of downstream processing of mining and The extent and nature of basic raw materials (BRM) in the region agricultural products is envisaged in the region. Technology is not fully known. There are many opportunities for their improvements will influence minerals processing over the next extraction. Planning needs to provide continued access for basic ten years. New technologies are already being utilised in the nickel raw material development to take place on the basis of industry, especially in relation to laterite deposits. environmental justification and appropriate rehabilitation of With the introduction of the competition policy, government is ground disturbed by development. BRM resources need to be aiming to encourage private companies to provide power and quantified so that planning authorities, producers and users have water supplies at a reduced cost to users, including industry. Most confidence in the continuity of supply. new initiatives for infrastructure projects and proposals in the The availability of basic raw materials in the study area needs to region are being developed by the private sector. Waterlink has be assessed. The preparation of a Basic Raw Materials Strategy to been promoting the use of the private sector in facilitating the identify the occurrence and availability of sand, gravel, clay, hard supply of water. The City of Kalgorlie-Boulder is proposing to rock and limestone within 100 kilometres of the Kalgoorlie- make available water from treated effluent for local industrial Boulder townsite is being funded by State Government and users. A private consortium has been aiming to establish a major industry and is in progress. A survey to identify basic raw reliable and affordable permanent potable water supply to the materials for an area within approximately a 60 kilometre radius eastern Goldfields. This is based on a proposal to build a large of the Esperance area is also planned. The survey will consider the desalination plant near Esperance to process seawater and provide basic raw material requirements of various industrial and port a water supply. developments that may take place in the Esperance area. The availability of gas and high-voltage power reticulation may reduce operating costs and allow downstream production of value 3.6.3 Industrial Development added products. The Goldfields Gas Transmission (GGT) pipeline The Goldfields-Esperance manufacturing sector is the second provides an alternative energy source for power production, largest in the State outside Perth. Production is based largely on although there is widespread concern about the cost of gas exchange with mining and agricultural industries and mostly transmission on the GGT pipeline. A proposal to build a new gas takes place in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Fabricated metal products pipeline to the northern goldfields is now being advanced in manufacturing is the major activity. The nature of the response to the GGT pricing issue. The pipeline is a major trunk manufacturing sector in the Kalgoorlie-Boulder area is different lateral from the Dampier to Bunbury pipeline. It is anticipated from that of Esperance, with the former based on mining, that a hydrometallurgical refinery will be viable about the year exploration and pastoral industries, and the latter on agriculture, 2002 in the Leinster area. fishing and port related industries. In the long term, there is scope for the manufacturing sector in the Kalgoorlie-Boulder area to The Mungari Industrial Park (located 26 kilometres south-west of grow, given the likely increase in nickel and gold production. Kalgoorlie-Boulder) has been developed as part of the Government’s long term planning to set aside land for heavy The Kalgoorlie-Boulder Chamber of Commerce and the industry throughout the State. Nickel and gold smelters based on Goldfields Esperance Development Commission have recently the associated mining industries are located at various sites published an Industry Capabilities Directory, promoting the skills around Kalgoorlie-Boulder townsite. The area is well located on of local mining service companies to resource project managers. the junction of major transportation routes (road and rail) to the A subsequent development has been the establishment of an Eastern States, Perth and the northern and southern areas of Industry Development Centre in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Western Australia. The construction of the natural gas pipeline to

5 Basic raw materials – For the purpose of this study, basic raw materials include gravel, sand, clay, hardrock and limestone.

70 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Kalgoorlie-Boulder has increased opportunities for the Currently, about 20 per cent of farm area is used for crops and the development of value-added industries. The Mungari Industrial remaining 80 per cent for pasture and grazing. In 1995/96 wheat Park will satisfy the foreseeable needs for heavy industry was the most valuable agricultural commodity followed by barley development in the Kalgoorlie-Boulder area. The site has been and wool (ABS 1995/96). Wheat, barley, lupins/oats, field peas and found environmentally acceptable by the EPA. canola are grown for overseas export markets.

Parkeston (in Kalgoorlie-Boulder) provides an opportunity for The Esperance Downs research station was established in 1950 to general industrial development. The site has the advantages of research methods of establishing (and proving benefits of) sub- being freehold with access to a rail link. The opportunity for clover pasture to unlock the productivity of the Esperance development at Parkeston is discussed in Section 7.0. sandplain. The Research Station is currently investigating encroachment of salinity and the rehabilitation of salt-affected areas. A suitable site for an industrial estate is required in the southern part of the region within the Shire of Esperance. The site selected Numerous research studies are being conducted in the area to will need to have good access to service corridors, infrastructure, increase agricultural production. Current projects include the port and be at a distance from conflicting land uses. research into salt-tolerant plants and rehabilitation of saline areas. Intensive land uses such as horticulture, viticulture, floriculture Kalgoorlie-Boulder is a major transport hub. The opportunity and intensive animal industries are largely limited by adequate exists to identify areas of weakness in existing infrastructure by supplies of suitable quality water. Low-salinity surface waters and way of transport linkages and facilities, and to make groundwaters occur close to the coast as a result of high rainfall improvements as necessary. The road/rail intermodal terminal leaching the salt from the relatively coarse textured soil profile. facilities will enhance Kalgoorlie-Boulder as a transport hub. Land clearing and inappropriate farm practices in the past have 3.6.4 Agriculture led to increasing levels of land degradation across the region. In the Esperance sub-region, 7.5 per cent or 122,463 hectares of land Esperance Sub-Region was estimated in 1995 to be affected by secondary salinity, with Agriculture is the dominant industry in the Esperance sub-region, the potential of losing 25.8 per cent or 422,387 hectares (RAP and including the local governments of Esperance and Ravensthorpe SCRIPT, 1997). Loss of agricultural production is a symptom of (refer Figure 24). There are 694 agricultural establishments an ‘excess water’ problem, where clearing of land for agriculture spread over 1.65 million hectares in the south of the region has resulted in increased amounts of water moving across the soil (GEDC, 1996). Agriculture in this part of the State was established surface and through the soil into the groundwater, causing in the 1860s. In the 1960s the previously underdeveloped waterlogging, secondary salinity and water erosion. There is an agricultural sector in this area was transformed by the injection of increasing awareness amongst farmers and the community millions of dollars by American investors, who used the latest generally of the problem, as well as increasing support for and techniques involving the addition of trace elements to make the involvement in programs for rehabilitation. In response to the rate perceived poor soils of the Esperance plain suitable for clover- of land degradation, the State Government has prepared and based grazing. Now an increasing amount of grazing land is being released the Western Australian Salinity Action Plan, and used for the planting of cereal crops, and this in itself has boosted encourages farmers to follow recommended practices. grain exports from Esperance in recent years.

71 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

The South Coast Regional Land and Water Care is increasing community awareness and Strategy (RAP and SCRIPT, 1997) for the support for this strategy and other programs. Esperance sub-region will assist to encourage the development of sustainable farming In addition, the Esperance Land Conservation systems. The aims of the strategy are to: District Committee has prepared the Esperance Region Catchment Planning Strategy (1996) as a • Arrest salinity. reference document for farmers and other land • Make farming more profitable (i.e. support managers such as State and local government tax deductibility for landcare works and agencies to assist them strategically to focus their catchment provide more resources for landcare). planning activities. • Prevent wind erosion. In September 1999 the State Landcare Conference was held in • Control waterlogging. Esperance. This was the last conference in the ‘Decade of • Improve communication and education. Landcare’ and was an important opportunity to promote landcare • Improve land and water resource planning. in the region. • Monitor key ecological, economic and social indicators. Landowners in the region are encouraged to diversify the use of • Control pests, weeds and vermin. their properties. Diversification is the process of expanding the • Protect Aboriginal cultural sites. land use of a lease by utilising aspects of the property other than the primary use and/or the creation of a manufacturing industry The strategy will assist community groups and government based on the principal land use. Diversified commodities over agencies within the sub-region to integrate their activities. There

LEGEND N

Agricultural Area Surface Water River Basin 0 50 100 Catchment Boundary Kilometres 022 Nullarbor Basin Potential Intensive Major Road Agriculture Area 024 Salt Lake Basin Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, 601 Esperance Coast Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 Conservation Estate 602 Albany Coast Local Government Boundary ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig24.npj Source: -Water and Rivers Commission, W.A. -Agriculture, W.A. -Department of Conservation and Land Management, W.A.

024

022

ESPERANCE RAVENSTHORPE Ravensthorpe 601

602 Esperance Hopetoun

Southern Ocean

Figure 24: Esperance Agricultural Area

72 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

recent years include camels, deer, donkeys, goats (non-feral), 3.6.5 Pastoral Uses horses, emus, aquaculture and non-farm activities such as tourism. Pastoral leases comprise approximately 30 per cent of the region and are predominantly spread across the central, north-west and Increases in the production of cereals, oil seeds, legumes, eastern parts (refer Figure 22). agroforestry and forest products, sheep and lamb, wool and beef are anticipated over the next 25 years. The growth of farm forestry The number of pastoral properties used for pastoral activities has has attracted increasing support since the formation of the South decreased significantly over the years. A large number of pastoral East Forestry Foundation (SEFF) in 1991. A number of commercial properties are now leased by mining companies or Aboriginal tree plantations has been advertised to investors. interests. This has resulted in a land use change away from grazing on some pastoral leases. One area of difficulty that has arisen is the Potential threats to agriculture in the region are likely to come in conflicting land use needs of the pastoral community and the two forms: land degradation (especially salinisation) and mining exploration companies. Another problem that many fluctuations in international commodity markets. Secondary farmers and pastoralists are facing is concern over existing and salinity, waterlogging and wind erosion are the major land potential native title issues. With pastoral leases due to expire in degradation hazards in the Esperance sub- region. Shallow soils 2015, tenure uncertainty and depressed wool prices have with low relief lead to extensive areas of perched water tables and combined to make pastoralism a difficult business. At present the waterlogging during winter. Groundwater salinity decreases with wool industry on pastoral leases is not economically or distance from the coast. Extensive clearing of remnant vegetation structurally viable in its present form, and other income- for agricultural purposes has caused an elevation of the water producing activities are needed to sustain pastoral activity. table and an increase in secondary salinity. About 7.5 per cent of the Esperance sub-region is affected by secondary salinity with a There are several options for those pastoralists who are looking to potential for 25.8 per cent to become saline unless ameliorative survive the current wool industry downturn: diversification; leave treatments are undertaken. the industry; amalgamation; integration of land management. Integration of land management can be defined as the integration About two-thirds of the soils are considered to be susceptible to of the role of agencies (such as CALM) to diversify management waterlogging (RAP and SCRIPT, 1997). Wind erosion is a risk as opposed to land use. The role of agencies would be to employ during crop establishment and on summer grazed annual land managers such as the existing pastoralists or land custodian pastures. Water erosion is a hazard on the heavier soils associated to manage and undertake conservation and other agency work on with the river systems. their behalf. This will require both structural changes and Goldfields Sub-Region modifications to land tenure, leasehold status, purpose and land There is virtually no cropping activity within this part of the use systems. region, with pastoral activities being the predominant rural land Diversification of the pastoral industry and the development of use. The intensity of agricultural use is low due to difficulties other forms of agricultural activity is occurring. Examples of arising from the aridity of the climate. All shires, with the diversification in the region include: exception of Ngaanyatjarrku, produce significant volumes of wool. Sheep numbers in the region are estimated to have • Production of kangaroo meat for human consumption. decreased from approximately 700,000 to about 475,000 in the • Domestication of feral goats for goat meat industry. past 30 years. Numbers have declined due to depressed wool • Livestock – meat sheep. prices and increased operating costs. • Camels – export to the Middle East. When compared with the Western Australian total, the value of wool • Seed collection for export. for the Goldfields is only 1.3 per cent of the State value. The yield of • Horticulture. wool is approximately 2.65 million kg per annum, which brings • Integrated land management. about $14-15 million in income into the sub-region annually. • Forestry, sandalwood and timber utilisation. • Tourism (e.g. Laverton Downs pastoral station).

73 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

From an economic perspective the main Research on timber production is being growth areas for pastoralists in recent years undertaken by CALM, Agriculture Western have included work for mining companies, Australia (AgWA) and South East Forest such as providing earthmoving machinery, Foundation (SEFF). The agencies have worked contracting and supplying accommodation for at the local level to provide assessment of the exploration crews. Most of these activities have physical resources relevant to tree production been undertaken on a limited basis. and also methods for successful tree integration into local farming systems. Extension of this There are pastoralists in the Goldfields sub-region who are information to growers is currently taking place. committed to reducing feral goat populations to alleviate the damage they cause to properties. A coordinated program has Since 1992 SEFF, AgWA, CALM and GEDC, with cooperation become effective in decreasing feral goat numbers and at the same from local farmers, have established 25 commercial tree plots time providing a valuable source of income for pastoralists. The throughout the Esperance sub-region. Trial plantings are sale of feral goats as an export commodity generates income, but encouraging, proving that there are suitable soils in the region for the number of pastoralists undertaking this is low due to the commercial tree production. By careful site selection, adequate problems caused by feral goats. With the introduction of a pilot soil water storage should not be limited to annual summer goat domestication scheme to demonstrate management and rainfall. Climatic factors such as a uniform temperature and high fencing techniques, and with funding, this industry has potential solar radiation along with negligible evaporation provide an in the region. environment as suitable for tree growth as other proven tree growing areas in Western Australia. Horticulture has not developed on a commercial scale mostly due to lack of water and remoteness from markets. However, there are Eighty per cent of the trial plantings are of western bluegum, and some possibilities in the Leonora area for developments such as the remaining 20 per cent comprises other species such as orchards (oranges), due to water availability in this area. maritime pine, eucalyptus and mallees for oil.

A few pastoralists in the region, notably Laverton Downs Station There is potential to develop a significant plantation timber and Mt Vetters, have diversified into tourism by providing tourist industry based on the growing of introduced timber species to accommodation. achieve the combined aims of reduced land degradation and the establishment of an export industry. In 1993, the Land and Water Resources Research and Development Commission decided to invest funds in researching Western bluegum (Eucalyptus globulus) are planted in the higher the requirements to achieve long term ecological sustainability in rainfall areas of the Esperance sub-region. While accurate data is the rangelands. The Rangeways Project commenced in 1995 and not available SEFF estimates there are between 600 and 800 is a five-year land use planning and research project aimed at hectares of western bluegum planted throughout the region that defining systems for reconciling different land uses in the long are suitable for woodchipping. It is envisaged products would be term, and ensuring the best management of the rangelands. exported through the port of Esperance, primarily in woodchip Rangeways is investigating ways to plan which take into account form with some logs exported in the long term. internal and external social and economic pressures on present As part of the Salinity Action Plan there are proposals to establish and future land uses, and their environmental impacts. It provides substantial maritime pine (Pinus pinasta) plantations in the an opportunity to work with land users, interest groups and intermediate rainfall zone. This can include major planting in the government to develop solutions at a regional scale. Esperance sub-region. Sandalwood and other species are used as supplementary species in the maritime pine project. 3.6.6 Forestry In the lower rainfall agricultural areas throughout the State, between Plantation Timber Production 500 and 1000 hectares of farmland have been planted with mallees In the past Esperance has not been part of the State’s commercial as part of the mallee eucalypt oil project. This project is in its early tree industry even though there is ample evidence to demonstrate stages and eventually the intent is to plant approximately 30,000ha successful growing of several commercial tree species through to statewide, with potential for the south coast and “mallee” farming maturity. Until recently, realisation of commercial value for tree area around Salmon Gums to be included. Eucalypt oil has the products had not been possible owing to an absence of local potential to replace solvents and is also used in its usual eucalyptus processing facilities, which in turn is a function of the low, non- oil applications. The tree also has potential in the Esperance sub- commercial, volume of available timber. region as it assists in the arrest of rising groundwater.

74 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Natural Forest Products The primary problem for the fishing industry is a large reduction Based on the sustainable harvest from natural stands and use of in biomass of the principal fishing species. Fisheries Western natural resources, there are a number of traditional sustainable Australia (FWA) prepares and polices management controls to uses of timber and forest products that continue, including reduce the pressure on the biomass, including quota numbers, firewood, fenceposts, craft timber and sandalwood industries. gear restrictions and access reductions. Fishers in the region generally agree that natural stocks of fish of every type are Throughout the State from the rangelands and pastoral areas, up decreasing rapidly. Due to the distances now required to find to 1800 tonnes of sandalwood is harvested by CALM contractors catch, fishing vessels have had to become larger and carry more annually, mostly for export and oil extraction. In 1997/98, 76 per sophisticated equipment, making investment in the industry cent of this harvest was derived from the Goldfields-Esperance much more expensive and risk-orientated. Region. Up to 200 tonnes of dead sandalwood is also harvested annually from the Goldfields and adjacent Wheatbelt by private With natural fish stocks depleting, alternatives need to be found, property owners under a CALM Forest Produce (Sandalwood) including various aquaculture options. Although problems such Licence. An extensive inventory of the sandalwood resource has as fish containment equipment maintenance in rugged seas and been completed and harvesting is subject to a management plan. the shortage of river and fresh lakes are important issues, aquaculture is a viable alternative for the future of the fishing Since 1992 there has been substantial effort and research done to industry along the coast, and inland. develop a specialty timber industry in the Goldfields, based on the extensive resource from the eucalypt and mulga woodlands and Farming southern bluefin tuna has emerged as a potential major the deserts, where a wide variety of unique timbers occur. Several new industry for Esperance. Fisheries WA has proposed the small industries and craft use have developed. Integrated establishment of offshore seacages to produce about 900 tonnes of sustainable harvesting and processing of the main woodland fish annually with a value of about $36 million on the Japanese species such as Goldfields blackbutt, gimlet, salmon gum and sashimi market. This proposal has provoked considerable debate redwood have been successfully and commercially trialed. Many in the Esperance community. The sites identified for this use have high-quality arid area timbers such as eucalypts, acacias, native the potential to conflict with recreational uses. Suitable sites need willow (Pittosporum phylliraeoides) and beefwood (Grevillea to be identified that will not have a detrimental social or striata) have been proven in a wide range of specialty uses from environmental impact. Fisheries WA has engaged a consultant to musical instruments to fine furniture. prepare an aquaculture plan for the Recherche Archipelago.

Based on the natural resource, harvesting and processing of specialty woods for these special products, furniture and craftwood are industries in their infancy with potential for ongoing development in the Goldfields allowing further regional diversification.

3.6.7 Fishing and Aquaculture Thirty-five professional boats operate from the Bandy Creek Harbour and a further 20 from various anchorages within the Shires of Esperance and Ravensthorpe. The value of wild caught fisheries in the Esperance sub-region in 1997/98 was approximately $10.9 million. This is approximately divided into: abalone and scallop – $5.8 million; fin fish – $3 million; southern rock lobster – $2 million; and crab – $169,000 (GEDC, 1999). Much of the fishing was done under regulated catch conditions, and therefore the opportunity for expansion within existing fisheries is limited, although live exports of deep sea crab and certain wetfish is increasing.

75 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

The use of inland saline water for aquaculture The southern coastal area centred on Esperance is is in early stages of development and there are one of the most beautiful and unspoilt coastlines no commercial operations at present in the in Australia. The natural assets of sandy beaches, region. However, opportunities for inland islands and azure blue seas make the area perfect aquaculture are the subject of research projects for fishing, windsurfing, yachting, cruising and being undertaken by government, industry swimming. The area includes a number of groups and tertiary institutions. Projects National Parks with developed camping, tourism involving silver perch and development of the and interpretation facilities. These natural assets local yabby catch are under way. Such studies could be have prompted the development of tourism amenities and incorporated into the proposed Centre for Management of Arid services such as accommodation properties, restaurants, cafes and Environments in Kalgoorlie. The cultivation of abalone within tourist facilities. Hopetoun is an attractive seaside village and a either maritime or shore facilities is under investigation and there popular destination, and Ravensthorpe, which is located on the is increasing interest in land-based abalone farming at coastal sites South Coast Highway, has a number of farmstay properties. which have acceptable access for seawater intake pipelines. The Eyre Highway which stretches east from Norseman in the The Outback Ocean Project proposes to grow ocean trout in Goldfields-Esperance Region across the Nullarbor Plain, is the farmland salt water ponds, over the winter months, for the principal road artery into and out of Western Australia, and as such restaurant and hotel market and the canned fish market. Also has significant freight use, as well as being a tourist route. Many proposed in Esperance is a land based abalone farm and Maritime retirees and others travel on the Eyre Highway as part of an around- Research and Training Centre, as an annex of the Esperance Australia trip. The highway is the lifeline for WA’s most easterly Community College. community, Eucla, with its small fishing fleet and towering cliffs.

Fisheries WA is the State government agency responsible for Kalgoorlie-Boulder, like the Eyre Highway, enjoys a special place aquaculture development. It is responsible for licensing and in the heart of many Australians. Kalgoorlie-Boulder is positioned enforcement, as well as the provision of industry assistance and as being ‘steeped in history’ and it is Australia’s gold capital. development. All new proposals are referred to the EPA for Tourists are attracted by the City’s mining heritage (preserved at assessment. Agriculture WA has expertise in soil, land and water Hannan’s Historic Mining Reserve, with this site soon to be management which, together with farm management, provide the further developed as the Australian Prospectors and Miners Hall context for aquaculture development in rural areas. of Fame opening in later 2001), its pioneer heritage and its frontier town streetscape with wide streets and grand public 3.6.8 Tourism buildings. Visitors are also attracted by Kalgoorlie-Boulder being a working mining town. They see the evidence of the City’s harsh The tourism industry is an increasingly significant industry in the beginnings, with gold hard won by picks and shovels, but also see Goldfields-Esperance Region with strong growth potential. The today’s mining by taking in the view of the superpit. region has a diversity of tourist attractions. They include the southern coastal area, the Eyre Highway, Kalgoorlie-Boulder, the The Goldfields and South East Tourism Research Reviews in 1998 bush feeling of remoteness and the northern goldfields. reported the following findings for the two tourism regions within the Goldfields-Esperance Region.

WA Tourism Commission Region Goldfields South-East (Esperance) Visitors 311,000 187,000 Visitor Nights 1,337,000 747,000 Visitor Expenditure (Domestic Visitors) $110 million $62 million Purpose of Visit Business 36% n.a. Holiday/Leisure and/or Visit Friends/Relations 39% 62% Other 25% n.a. Origin of Visitors

Domestic (interstate and intrastate) 292,000 175,000 Overseas 19,000 12,000

76 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Business travellers make up a large proportion of the Goldfields’ destinations, with the sector fare calculated by “zones”. For annual visitor numbers. The meetings and conference market is example, Adelaide – Kalgoorlie-Boulder – Perth – Adelaide, important for Kalgoorlie-Boulder, with a number of annual which should encourage “stopover tourism.” international conferences based in the area, during which hotel Each locality will need to ensure it is adequately prepared to accommodation is booked out. At these times, up to 300 maximise the opportunities to promote tourism. Many aspects of additional beds could be filled. A number of new accommodation tourist facilities, such as motels, caravan parks, restaurants and properties has opened in recent years and a Broadwater property customer service, need improvement. with function facilities is due to open in 2001. These properties will service a growing tourism market such as the heritage buildings, the two-up ring, Goldfields Arts Centre, 3.6.9 Regional Enterprise Hannan’s Historic Mining Reserve and the Museum of the Regional enterprise is a term used for the purposes of this Strategy Goldfields, although their principal markets will continue to encompass activities initiated in the region to promote its to be business travellers. unique assets and develop niche enterprise opportunities. The region is large and diverse yet remote, with potential for a range of To many tourists, Kalgoorlie-Boulder, and the bush and towns enterprise developments. The key benefits of promoting regional that surround it, represent the real Australia. Coolgardie has enterprises will be the development of a stronger community and attractive historic buildings and was the first town in the diversification of the economy. Goldfields. The ghost towns of Bulong and Kanowna now give little hint of how busy they were at the height of the gold rush. The Goldfields and Esperance sub-regions have strong economic Tourists travel north to Menzies to see marvellous wildflowers and sectors supporting the principal industry sectors of mining and hope to make their fortune from metal detecting alluvial gold. agriculture. In particular, the strength of the mining industry in the region supports a wide variety of secondary support With the planned development of the Outback Highway east from industries, including accommodation, transport, engineering Laverton, the northern Goldfields will have exposure to more services, consultancy services, equipment and labour hire, tourists. Gwalia, the restored miners’ settlement near Leonora, laboratories, drilling and contracting companies, communication will attract more curious visitors. Pastoral stations will have the providers and disposal specialists. opportunity to develop station-stays (like Laverton Downes). The remote Aboriginal community of Warburton with its Arts and Esperance is the regional centre for the south-east agricultural Cultural Centre (currently being built) will benefit from tourism area which extends from Ravensthorpe to Condingup and north opportunities as a result of the development of the highway, as to Salmon Gums. About 550 small businesses and light industries will other Aboriginal communities. service the agricultural, tourism and fishing industries. Commerce is a significant employer and generates about $66 The self-drive market is important for the region. The shires and million annually. tourism industry believe that the most important future roads- related tourism project for the region is the Outback Highway The commercial and government service sectors account for the from Laverton to Winton in Queensland via Warburton, and the employment of a large number of the region’s population. In likely flow-on effects it will bring. The Transform WA (Transport, 1996, 4,294 persons were engaged in wholesale and retail activity March 1998) priority transport program lists improving the and another 2,455 were employed in finance, insurance, property formation and gravel from Laverton to Docker River for this road, and business service activity. Of major significance were the 3,462 at a cost of $25 million. The project is being developed by the people employed in education, health and community services. Outback Highway Development Council, which is currently lobbying for Commonwealth funding. Retail turnover remains a significant indicator of commercial activity in the region. The last retail census was carried out in 1991 In late 1999 the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder asked Airlink for an and at that time turnover was estimated to be $289.6 million. update on any plans the airline might have to schedule a Recent estimates by the Department of Commerce and Trade Kalgoorlie-Ayers Rock/Alice Springs service. The airline has have put that figure at $417.1 million for 1997, a 44 per cent indicated that it has no immediate plans to introduce such a increase. service, but the matter remains under review. Opportunities exist to strengthen existing sectors, and to develop As regards stopover fares – Airlink has announced that from niche enterprise opportunities. July 1 2000 it will introduce a new fare – “Aussie Explorer”. This fare type requires the passanger to fly on an itinery of three

77 PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Education is developing as a major industry. There are significant A recent study by the Department of Transport has nominated opportunities to enhance the capacity of Kalgoorlie-Boulder as an Kalgoorlie-Boulder as having significant potential for expansion education centre, particularly in relation to marketing the existing as a base for the training of overseas student pilots. The report WA School of Mines as a centre of education excellence in mining took into account Kalgoorlie’s excellent existing aviation studies. infrastructure, its outstanding educational facilities and the fact that the City is, through Curtin University, already a centre for The Australian Prospectors and Miners Hall of Fame is to be tertiary education. established in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. The proposal is for an educational and tourist complex that will comprise a public While there are number of successful Aboriginal businesses in the museum and mining heritage precinct. It will also be a centre for region, and many capable and skilled Aboriginal people in the research into mining. The centre will be located at a site adjacent workforce, Aboriginal employment rates are still very poor. to the Hannans North Mining Heritage Reserve four kilometres The GEDC, in association with the Chamber of Commerce and from the centre of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has established Industry The project will provide major economic benefits for Kalgoorlie- Development Centre to provide a linkage between local service Boulder through increased tourism, with an estimated 100,000 companies and project developers. The aim of the Centre will be visitors to the centre expected each year. It will also become an to promote the capabilities of local companies to project important tourist icon for the region and will be linked – by the developers, so that leakage from the local economy is minimised. proposed Outback Highway via Winton and on to Queensland – The proposed and potential regional economic initiatives with the Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach, Queensland. The outlined will improve the economic base of the region and hall of fame will be a major tourist attraction for the region. The promote its unique characteristics. centre has recently received a funding boost with $5 million from the Commonwealth Government Centenary Federation Fund, and a further $2.5 million being pledged by the State Government. The Australian Prospectors & Miners Hall of Fame will be opened in November 2001 by the Prime Minister of Australia.

78 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

3.7 REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE have been examined. The recent announcement of a groundwater reservoir in the Officer Basin is yet to be proven for size and Growth of the Goldfields-Esperance Region in terms of urban quality, which may take several years. and industrial development, tourism, mining and other resource industries is reliant on the existence and development of Mining accounts for the largest demand for non-potable water appropriate infrastructure. The following analysis outlines major and a large part of potable water in the region, but the supply is infrastructure requirements in the region (Figure 25). restricted. Major consumers, those with a daily consumption in excess of 49 kL, are required to pay the economic cost of water. Major consumers weigh up the cost/benefits of paying the 3.7.1 Water and Wastewater Requirements economic cost of potable water from the G&AWS against self- Water and wastewater infrastructure is instrumental in supply of non-potable water. Most mining water supplies are supporting economic development and population growth. For from local groundwater sources and are predominantly brackish the Goldfields-Esperance Region it is a major factor in the cost of or hypersaline. Large resources of saline water exist in the industrial and residential development. Local water sources in the palaeochannels, which are sandfilled underground valleys up to a Goldfields sub-region are limited, with average rainfall less than kilometre wide, underlying broad valleys and salt lakes. Like the 350mm each year. In the Esperance sub-region there is G&AWS, the hypersaline groundwater of the Goldfields has an considerably more rainfall – about 625mm annually near economic limit rather than an absolute limit. Once the Esperance and 281mm in Norseman each year. Water groundwater near the major demand areas is depleted, alternative consumption in the Goldfields for 1997/98 is summarised in the sources of non-potable water will become cost-effective. following table. The WaterLink Project (led by the Water Corporation) was Most of the potable water for the Goldfields is sourced from the launched in February 1998 and aims to promote a more Goldfields and Agriculture Water Supply (G&AWS). The towns of integrated approach to all aspects of water supply, use and the study area can be broken into two distinct categories, those disposal within the eastern Goldfields region. The project aims to supplied by the G&AWS and those with an independent water build on the extensive work that has already been undertaken on supply. The G&AWS supplies water from Mundaring Weir to the water-related issues in the region. Its objectives are to: Central Wheatbelt and the Goldfields. The region will continue to • Identify the needs of current and future water users in the rely on imported potable water unless the cost of alternative Goldfields sub-region. supply methods is significantly reduced. The G&AWS does not • Identify partnership for improved water supply flexibility and have an ultimate capacity, but it has an economic capacity (the enhanced regional growth potential. point at which further upgrades to the G&AWS are more • Provide a model for a participative infrastructure strategic expensive than developing another source). A number of options planning. to augment supply to the Goldfields and their associated costs

TABLE 7: Water Consumption in the Goldfields for 1997/98 Supply Urban (ML pa) Mining (ML pa) Esperance 1682 Nil Norseman 262 289 Kambalda 850 1910 Kalgoorlie-Boulder 6073 2480 Coolgardie 272 44 Menzies 23 5 Leonora 394 55 Laverton 225 31

Urban – Includes Industrial and Commercial (Water Corporation, 1997/1998).

79 LEGEND PART 1 - BACKGROUND

Existing Strategic Combined Freight Goldfields Gas Transmission KIMBERLEY and Tourist Road Network (GGT)Pipeline PILBARA Existing Strategic Freight Road Network / Water Pipeline GASCOYNE Possible Extension MID-WEST Existing Strategic Tourist Road Network / Strategic Industry Site GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE Tourist Route to be Investigated WHEATBELT PERTH PEEL ✶ Mt Walton Intractable Existing Government Railway Waste Disposal Site SOUTH-WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Index to Study Area Possible Railway Extension Non-perennial Lake

Strategic Transport Hub Study Boundary

Regional Airport

Regular Passenger Transit Airport

Air Strip To Alice Springs Public Port

Optical Fibre Network

Transmission Power Line(SWIN) Warburton

To Wiluna

To Geraldton Leinster

Leonora Laverton

Menzies

✶ Kalgoorlie-Boulder Coolgardie Forrest

To Per th Kambalda To Adelaide Eucla

To Hyden Norseman To Broomehill Balladonia

To Lake King

Ravensthorpe

To Albany Esperance Hopetoun N

0 50 100 150

Kilometres Southern Ocean Produced by Project Mapping Section, Geographic & Planning Information Branch, Ministry for Planning, Perth, W.A. July 2000 ntw-map11//strat_pol/ /gerps/ /gef_fig25.npj

Figure 25: Infrastructure

80 PART 1 – BACKGROUND 1

Five taskforces have been set up to address key issues which were It is unlikely either of the Esperance to Kalgoorlie-Boulder identified through an options workshop attended by pipeline options would proceed without a guaranteed demand representatives of the mining industry, the community, regulatory close to the stated scheme capacities. bodies and supply utilities. The taskforces are as follows: The remaining towns in this study, with the exception of Eucla, • Urban Use – considering future urban water usage issues. are supplied by independent water schemes. Most of these are • Industrial Use – considering future mining industry water sourced from groundwater, except for Ravensthorpe which is usage issues (demand, quality, cost). partially supplied from surface water catchments. There is no • Groundwater – reviewing the current hypersaline resource town water supply at Eucla. Residents rely on rainwater tanks and usage and environmental issues associated with hypersaline individual reverse-osmosis plants that desalinate bore water. water use. The potable groundwater reserves in the northern Goldfields are • Supply Augmentation – considering conceptual water supply scarce and of marginal quality and some sources are being options for the Goldfields. Options include a desalinated abstracted at an unsustainable rate. A study titled Groundwater supply from Esperance, a sea water supply from Esperance, Resources of the northern Goldfields (Johnson et al; 1998) off-peak use of underutilised capacity in the G&AWS, concludes that there are significant groundwater resources held in wastewater re-use and drainage. storage available throughout the northern Goldfields. The total • Strategic Planning – bringing together the findings of all the groundwater storage for the area is estimated at 16,400 x 106 m3, taskforces. which is considered sufficient for current and projected mining In February 1999, Water Corporation issued its WaterLink report developments. Industry use of hypersaline palaeochannel which identified a $150-$300m pipeline pumping seawater from groundwater has risen sharply in recent years from an estimated Esperance to Kalgoorlie-Boulder as a new water source for the 20GL in 1987 to 32GL in 1994/95. Current demand is estimated Goldfields. It is estimated that the pipeline could deliver 35ML to be 20 to 100 times the natural recharge rate, and the sources daily to the mining industry at about $1 per kilolitre. The Water will show signs of significant depletion in 15 to 45 years. Once the Corporation has stated that funding of the pipeline would have to groundwater near the major demand areas is depleted, alternative come from the private sector, with the Water Corporation sources of non-potable water will be required. prepared to help with the sale and distribution of the water. The The hypersaline groundwater resources in the eastern Goldfields Water Corporation commenced a $30,000 feasibility study on the have recently been the subject of a study (Ion, 1998). The study project in March 2000 along with Theiss Contractors and has concluded that at the current abstraction rate of 20 ML per Macquarie Bank. year, the groundwater storage will last in the order of 30 years. If Goldfields Utilities Limited, a private consortium, has promoted a groundwater abstraction increased to the allocation volume of large desalinated water supply to Kalgoorlie-Boulder from about 60 ML then the groundwater storage, on a regional scale Esperance. The current proposal is to produce 110ML/day at a would last in the order of 10 years. However, in the unconfined target price of $2.00/kL, with the majority of the water going to areas and around Coolgardie where the groundwater storage is Kalgoorlie-Boulder. The project is based on a proposal to build a limited, there will be problems with local groundwater supplies. large desalination plant near Esperance to process sea water and The study recommends another review of the groundwater produce potable water. Goldfields Utilities Limited is also resources in 5 to 10 years. examining an alternative water source in the O’Sullivan’s Power The groundwater reserves in the Esperance sub-region have been and Gas Project which produces large amounts of potable water as the subject of a comprehensive review by the Water and Rivers a by-product of the lignite gasification process. This would enable Commission (Hart, 1997). It reports sufficient potable potable water to be pumped from O’Sullivan’s (near Salmon groundwater resources for all the towns in the area, except Gums) rather than building a desalination plant near Esperance. Ravensthorpe which is supplied from surface water sources. As a result of recently completed long term planning, the Water However, at some point it may become cheaper to desalinate sea Corporation has developed a staged program of scheme upgrade water rather than continue to extend the borefield at Esperance. capable of meeting the estimated long term potable water demand for Kalgoorlie. The G&AWS system’s capacity to pump water was recently upgraded and storage capacity at Kalgoorlie-Boulder was increased by 50 per cent.

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3.7.2 Power and Energy Whilst affirming the uniform tariff Power production and provision is an arrangements for residential and small business important issue in this region, particularly for users in the State, the Government has changed the mining industry. The size of the region and the tariff structure for large consumers of the distances between towns creates limitations electricity in Western Power’s non- for certain towns, especially those with a low or interconnected systems. Under the new fluctuating population base. arrangements, large business customers (those that consume greater than 300,000 kWh per Four types of power and energy services are year) are charged 20 cents/kWh for all consumption greater than available in the region: 300,000kWh in the year. • South-West Intergrated Network (SWIN), for power transmission since 1984; Offsetting this new tariff structure, the Government has • Goldfields Gas Transmission pipeline (GGT), for power introduced an open access regime for large customers (those that generation since 1996. consume greater than 300,000 kWh per year). Under the open access arrangements, large customers are able to obtain power • Regional diesel-based generation operations, for regional from their supplier of choice and may therefore be able to power and distribution. negotiate a lower contract price than they would obtain under the • Regional alternative-energy based power generation (wind tariff arrangements. generation), located in Esperance since 1993. In addition, the Government is seeking proposals from private Energy supply to the towns within the region varies according to companies to supply power to Western Power in a number of location and population. Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Coolgardie and regional systems in order to reduce the cost of electricity Ravensthorpe are connected to the South-West Integrated generation and bring more competition into the market. This is Network, which allows for future expansion. Western Power as the being carried out through a competitive procurement process. A regional distributors provide electricity to Laverton, Leonora, power procurement process is currently underway for the Menzies, Norseman, Esperance and Hopetoun. Energy for these Esperance regional system and it is anticipated that the tender towns is usually provided by diesel-operated generators though documents will be issued shortly to those companies that were Leonora is gas. Mining companies generate a large proportion of short listed from the Expression of Interest stage of the process. their own power, and in Norseman the mining company sells the excess electricity to Western Power for distribution and retailing The following outlines the issues for each local government. to its customers. Kalgoorlie-Boulder is well positioned to provide power to existing Alternative methods of power generation are not widely used in and future demand levels. A gas-fired power station has been the region. Esperance is the only shire within the region to use an developed at Parkeston. The availability of both gas and diesel alternative source for electricity production. This is by wind provides flexibility. Coolgardie is not connected to the GGT power, generated at the Ten Mile Wind Farm west of the town. pipeline, and this is unlikely to change unless a major mining Initial infrastructure costs and the inconsistency of supply are the venture is established near the town. Kambalda is supplied with usual deterrents to more widespread use. gas and electricity and is considered to have an adequate supply for current and anticipated demand. Alternative energy generation could include wood (biomass) fired power stations, especially for Esperance, in conjunction with There is no gas reticulation in Laverton. However, a spur from the forestry proposals and major tree planting to address salinity GGT pipeline extends to the Murrin Murrin mine. Anaconda issues. A trial by Western Power is to be undertaken near Narrogin Nickel Ltd in joint venture with State West Power plans to build a for this type of alternative power generation. $100 million stand alone pipeline from Geraldton to Murrin Murrin. Some of the options being considered are to extend this A regional power supply strategy has seen changes to tariff piepline to Mount Magnet and Leinster in competition with the structures, tenders called for private generation, energy efficiency GGT pipeline. Laverton has an ample supply to meet double its initiatives introduced into remote areas and a lowering of the current demand for electricity. The town of Leonora is supplied open access threshold levels for Western Power’s regional by a new private gas-fired power station. StateWest Power Pty Ltd distribution systems. supplies power on a contractual basis to Western Power, which then distributes the power to its customers in the town. WMC Resources Limited operates the Leinster townsite, and power and

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energy are provided by the company’s reticulated LPG supply, gas- The most frequent type of upgrading recommended is widening fired generators on the minesite. Power supply in this town is not sealed roads to 8-9m, followed by upgrading formed roads to constrained for the future. The town of Menzies uses diesel- gravel roads that are passable in wet weather. The standard of generated electricity. Although Menzies is not expected to roads within the region is variable, but distances and scattered experience significant growth in the future, the removal of diesel settlements make the road network a fundamental and primary subsidies has created the need to plan for alternative methods of means of communication, access and delivery of goods and power production. services. Kalgoorlie-Boulder has the most roads needing to be upgraded, and Laverton has the least. Warburton and various communities throughout the Ngaanyatjarraku Shire use diesel-generated electricity. Demand Transform WA, a major road initiative launched by the State for services and energy infrastructure will increase as activity such Government in 1998, makes substantial funding commitments as the proposed Outback Highway increases. for major road upgrades in the Goldfields Region. The following local and State road projects have been nominated for funding: Norseman and Eucla use diesel-generated electricity. The continued • Construction of Broadarrow-Ora Banda Road – access to production of power by the mining industry in the Norseman area, Cawse nickel project. and the stability of growth in the town, ensure future upgrades and alternative energy sources do not need to be sought. • Construction and sealing of Bulong Road – access to Bulong nickel project. Esperance is primarily served with electricity by Western Power • Construction and sealing of Mt Magnet-Sandstone-Leinster diesel generators. Demand for power already exceeds the capacity Road to provide an improved linkage between the Northern of the permanent energy sources, and additional diesel generators Goldfields and Geraldton. are hired to meet peak demand. Wind generators meet only 10 per • Development of the Goldfields Highway, including the cent of demand and are currently used only as a fuel saving energy construction of a bridge and reconstruction of a floodway at source. The Esperance Port Authority has installed its own Lake Raeside, to provide an all-weather link to the Northern generators to avoid the substantial additional tariff costs charged Goldfields. to large power users. • Reconstruction and sealing of Goldfields Highway (Mt Keith- Esperance is currently progressing through the Regional Power Wiluna-Meekatharra). Procurement Policy, with expressions of interest to operate a • Improvement to formation and gravel of the Great Central power station having been called for and the short listed Road (part of the Outback Highway) between Laverton and companies now being required to submit detailed proposals. The Docker River. The highway begins in Laverton and runs via process will result in a new power provider for Esperance being Alice Springs in the Northern Territory to Winton in central operational in 2002. Queensland. The highway will become an important tourist Ravensthorpe’s electricity supply will require upgrading if a major route in inland Australia and will provide better access for mineral development occurs. One option may be an additional Aboriginal communities. transmission line being developed to service the town. In Hopetoun, which is supplied with diesel-generated power, seasonal peak demands need to be catered for together with the increasing permanent population. This will require a new power station, preferably located in the industrial area rather than in the centre of the residential area. Hopetoun may also be included in the Esperance Power Procurement Process if its inclusion adds value to the bidder’s proposal.

3.7.3 Roads The condition and configuration of roads within the region varies significantly. Some townsites have no formed roads, while others have a good road network. The Roads 2020 Regional Road Development Strategy’s (MRWA, 1997) for the Goldfields and Great Southern Regions, identify roads throughout the region in need of upgrading.

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Other important recommendations in the Northern Goldfields Goldfields-Esperance Region Roads 2020 Laverton has a relatively small population, and Regional Road Development Strategy (MRWA, traffic volume generated is not excessive, 1997) that are consistent with the Goldfields- however some roads require upgrading to Esperance Regional Transport Strategy include: minimum standard. Leonora is expected to • Upgrading the South Coast Highway experience only marginal growth in the next 30 linking Esperance and Albany to cater for years. The Shire of Menzies has experienced increased tourist traffic and heavy vehicles decline in static population growth in recent associated with grain and minerals cartage. years, since mines have closed and workers and their families have relocated. Pastoral properties are also decreasing in number, • Assessing the benefits and impacts involved in the provision principally through amalgamation. of a more direct route linking Norseman with Perth and the Great Southern and South-West regions. Two options should The Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku consists of remote desert be considered: communities. Some roads provide access to the various • Norseman-Hyden Road linking with existing roads Aboriginal communities in the region, however, most roads need serving the metropolitan area and the South-West. upgrading to become passable during wet weather. Moves toward • Norseman-Lake King Road which would provide a establishing an improved tourist route through the area substantially more direct link to the Great Southern and connecting Laverton and Winton in Queensland (the Outback South-West districts from the Eyre Highway. Highway) are in the initial stages of planning.

• Investigating opportunities for providing a road link between Central Goldfields Burra Rock and Victoria Rock nature reserves. Coolgardie is strategically situated on the Great Eastern Highway, and is the junction of this road and the Coolgardie-Esperance The Shire of Ravensthorpe is included in the Great Southern Highway. Traffic bound for the Eastern States diverts from the Region Roads 2020 Regional Development Strategy (MRWA, 1997). Great Eastern Highway at Coolgardie joining the Eyre Highway at The recommendations of that strategy applying to the region Norseman. Kambalda, 50km south of Kalgoorlie-Boulder on include: Celebration Road, is the site of a major WMC Resources nickel • Construction of portion of the Lake King-Cascade Road. This mine. Overtaking lanes are important features along the main is a direct connection between major inter-regional routes and transport routes around Coolgardie as they allow vehicles to pass part of a link between Esperance, the Wheatbelt and Perth. slower freight vehicles.

• Construction of the Lake King-Norseman Road. This is a The Eyre Highway links Western Australia to the Eastern States, direct connection between major inter-regional routes and and the Shire of Dundas is thus host to travellers entering and part of a link between Esperance, Kalgoorlie, the Wheatbelt leaving the State. The Eyre Highway leads straight into Norseman, and Perth. then traffic diverts north towards Kalgoorlie-Boulder or south towards Esperance. According to the local community, the road • Upgrading the Ravensthorpe-Hopetoun Road. between Norseman and Kalgoorlie-Boulder needs upgrading and the provision of overtaking lanes. The Roads 2020 Strategy recommended that a formed road be constructed between Norseman and Hyden to assist in the development of the Maggie Hays/Emily Ann nickel project, with the possibility of increased tourism traffic.

Esperance Sub-Region Bulk goods are imported into or exported from the Goldfields- Esperance Region through the Port of Esperance. The Esperance Service Corridor Town Planning Scheme Study (ERM Mitchell McCotter, 1997) makes recommendations in regard to the transport corridors into and out of the town, to allow heavy haulage and other traffic to operate efficiently.

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3.7.4 Rail Most existing freight through Leonora is on its way from or to The principal purpose of the region’s railway system is to transfer Leinster, Mt Keith or Murrin Murrin, and many products are products associated with the mining industry. Kalgoorlie-Boulder is being “double-handled” (i.e. road and rail transport) before the focus of railway activity in the region, and lines converge upon leaving the region. Leinster is a central location for all activities in the town from the north, south, east and west (refer Figure 25). the northern Goldfields mineral province – a junction for roads north towards Newman, west to Geraldton and south to The railway infrastructure in the region is in a poor state and Kalgoorlie-Boulder/Esperance (Hardcastle and Richards, pp12- requires upgrading. Track derailments are frequently experienced 22). Establishing a railway terminal at Leinster for more efficient on the Kalgoorlie-Esperance line. There is considerable and cost-effective transfer of goods could be justified if there was community concern in the Goldfields regarding the availability of a significant increase in bulk tonnages being transferred through sufficient funding to achieve a satisfactory upgrade. The level of the region, but the Northern Goldfields Mineral Province Study freight traffic generated from anticipated increases in mining (1996) does not expect the necessary increase to be achieved. activity in the region will determine future upgrades. Extension of the railway to Laverton may be more realistic due to In March 2000, the Government secured the agreement of the freight task associated with Murrin Murrin and projects Parliament for the sale of Westrail Freight. As a consequence of surrounding Laverton. A reduction in operating costs or savings this, $42m will be spent on re-sleepering the line and an associated with the elimination of double handling of freight at additional $35m to upgrade the Esperance–Kalgoorlie-Boulder Malcolm would make the investment more attractive. line has been guaranteed in the relevant legislation. Portman Mining is undertaking a review of freighting iron ore out As the region experiences growth, it is likely that rail transport use of the Esperance or Kwinana ports. Should Esperance be selected will increase, including the provision of fuel and consumables to there is a need to upgrade the Kalgoorlie-Esperance railway line to the mining industry, and to transport mineral products out of the achieve heavier axle loads and increased speeds, in line with a region. The potential for rail transport to take precedence over projected increase in iron ore traffic. The Kalgoorlie- road transport would increase if attractive freight rates were Koolyanobbing section, which has timber sleepers, is being offered and there was a need to transfer even larger quantities of considered for upgrading to concrete sleepers as part of the inter- bulk materials. It is the Government’s intention to privatise capital city rail network. Westrail’s freight business in order to provide greater competition between road and rail, which should reduce freight rates. Passenger services will be significantly improved with the However, the extent of any freight transfer that may occur introduction of a new high-speed train linking Perth and between nodes is not known. Incentives for bulk freight to use rail Kalgoorlie-Boulder. The new Prospector, scheduled to commence need to be encouraged. operations in 2003, will be capable of speeds in excess of 150km/ph. It will significantly improve passenger travel between Rail transport from Leonora is an important means of the two cities, subject to the rail track being upgraded to transferring nickel concentrates. The Laverton region is expected accommodate these speeds. to experience the most growth, with the potential construction of a nickel refining facility. Transportation of products to complete mineral processing – such as sulphur and ammonium sulphate – will undoubtedly place pressure on the rail links (Hardcastle and Richards, 1996, p12-21).

Brambles Transport Company is building facilities at Malcolm to service the substantial Murrin Murrin import/export requirements. The Leonora terminal is used to dispatch nickel concentrate and receive fuel. Westrail acknowledges that the establishment of a container terminal in Leonora could open up greater freight opportunities for the railway system. It is understood that mining interests in the Leonora-Laverton area are studying a possible Leonora-Murrin Murrin rail link to complement the recently upgraded rail facilities at Malcolm.

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Intermodal Freight Facility – increased the terminal space by 330m2.There is Kalgoorlie-Boulder no indication that demand for services at Kalgoorlie-Boulder services many of the Esperance will increase substantially in the surrounding towns and minesites, and is the medium-term. transport hub for the region. It will become In the northern Goldfields, public airports exist more significant as it gains greater recognition at Laverton, Leonora and Leinster. Leinster as an inland port for the transfer of goods into Airport primarily serves WMC Resources staff and out of the region and to the northern and and contractors, but is also a drop-off point for a number of other south-east regions of the State. The road and rail networks of the mining operations in the area. region converge at Kalgoorlie-Boulder. The Great Eastern Highway, Coolgardie-Esperance Highway and Eyre Highway are Future air transport requirements in the region will be the major roads. Kalgoorlie-Boulder is the junction for the north- determined by the establishment and/or development of south rail line from Leonora to Esperance and the east-west line individual mining and industrial projects, principally in the from Perth to the Eastern States. northern Goldfields region, and by population growth in the central and more southern parts of the region. It is anticipated The State Government called for expressions of interest from there will be an increased reliance on air transport as the region companies to build, own and operate a new rail and road freight develops. Fly-in/fly-out continues to increase as does general interchange facility in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. The intention was that business use for air transport, as a result, aircraft landing areas and operation of the intermodal facility be non-discriminatory in aerodromes will need to be upgraded. pricing and access. It is also hoped that the use of modern technology, together with progressive and innovative Pilot training for international airlines based in Kalgoorlie- management and workplace practices, will speed up freight Boulder and the use of other airstrips in the region will be movements and provide significant benefits to shippers and pursued. freight end-users. The proposals submitted in response to the call for expressions of interest were deemed non-conforming by the 3.7.6 Ports evaluation committee, and the process was terminated. While the Esperance port is the only sea port in the region and is the major process did not proceed, the Government will continue to port for the export and import of goods to and from the region. examine future requirements and land availability issues. The catchment for the port extends as far as Mt Keith. As well as The existing Westrail owned and managed gantry-style the railway to Leonora, there are well-constructed roads intermodal facility at the West Kalgoorlie freight yards will connecting the port to the major rural production areas (Connell continue to operate. Road/Rail Intermodal Terminal Facilities will Wagner, October 1997). continue to expand at West Kalgoorlie and Parkeston. Currently the bulk of export cargo is mineral product from the Goldfields and the Eastern Wheatbelt. Other export cargo 3.7.5 Air Transport includes agricultural products such as grains and cereals. Large Air transport provides a fast and efficient service and is widely quantities of cargo are also imported via the port to be transferred used in the Goldfields-Esperance Region. Kalgoorlie-Boulder throughout the region, including petroleum, mining equipment Airport has the highest number of passenger movements of any and chemicals. Esperance’s role as the major port for the region regional centre in Western Australia. In addition to services to and should continue to be promoted. from Perth, it has seven services per week to and from Adelaide. It has the capacity to meet demands over the next 20 years, The Port of Esperance ships iron ore from Koolyanobbing, 400km particularly in terms of aircraft sizes. Substantial terminal to the north-west, nickel from Mt Keith, 800km to the north, plus upgrading was completed in October 1998. Upgrading includes barley, wheat and other rural products from approximately 700 new check-in facilities, a light aircraft terminal/lounge, increased farms in the southern part of the region. The region’s growing concourse space and club lounges for major airlines. Beyond 20 nickel industry provides scope for continuing export growth at years the airport will require redevelopment or a new airport will Esperance. In 1997 a $3.5 million nickel storage and handling be required to service the region. facility for the Silver Swan nickel project (50 kilometres north-east of Kalgoorlie) with a capacity for 30,000 tonnes of concentrate Esperance Airport is currently not capable of accommodating was constructed. The port has had a $40 million upgrade, a $60 larger jet aircraft services (e.g. BAe146) and is serviced by turbo- million wheat storage upgrade and the construction of a $20 propped, commuter-style aircraft. The Shire of Esperance has million new shed for Koolyanobbing Iron ore.

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The port is linked to the region by road and rail networks. Grain Telstra has completed fibre optic cabling between Leonora, is transported by rail from Grass Patch and Salmon Gums and by Murrin Murrin and Laverton and between Leonora and Leinster. road from the rest of the Esperance agricultural area. Other The Leonora to Mt Keith fibre project has been planned. New agricultural products are transported by road; nickel and iron ore mobile coverage is now available at Murrin Murrin, Leonora and are transported from Kambalda, Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Leinster. The Kalgoorlie-Boulder coverage area has been Koolyanobbing by rail, and from Leonora by road and rail. enhanced.

The town of Esperance has developed around the port, and urban There is a greater use of mobile telephones and data-transfer encroachment has had a minor effect on the port’s operations. services, similar to Perth levels, in areas where improved services The Port Authority has purchased several blocks of land to are available, such as Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Telstra has been provide a buffer zone, but several environmental issues will surprised at the high usage levels of mobile phones since continue to influence port operations, including noise control, MobileNet base stations were established at Meekatharra and dust control and fuel pipeline spillage. The capital cost of moving Leonora in late 1997. The rapid take-up of the Internet in country rail, road and port facilities is significant and difficult to justify areas is well publicised, and there is a recognised consumer desire without a major increase in activity at the port. and need for this service.

For the western part of the region, the ports at Fremantle and The combination of increased economic activity in minerals, Kwinana are closer than Esperance by road and rail, and may population expansion and increasing travel/tourism through this therefore be more economical. Other ports in the south of area, plus the worldwide trend of greater reliance on convenient, Western Australia do not have direct rail links or road networks, preferably cheap, communications, will create higher demands for and generally have limited loading draft. The proposed new deep- telecommunications in the region in the future. water port at Oakajee could have a significant effect on the People in the region require good-quality, reliable and affordable Goldfields-Esperance Region, particularly given the Transform voice, fax, data modem telecommunications, public telephones, WA proposal to upgrade and seal the Mt Magnet-Sandstone- cheap/reliable Internet Access, and mobile telephones as a Leinster Road. minimum. Some classes of users have, and will have in future, A study recently commissioned by the Esperance Port Authority needs which are more specific to their interests, work indicates growth is expected to stabilise at the port in the next few requirements and lifestyle. At the medium growth rate of 1.1 per years, though the upward trend should continue over the long cent each year, by 2026 the population of the region should grow term (Connell Wagner, 1997). Future development options for the by half as much on the 1996 figure, and demand for port involve the possibility of dredging the harbour by a further telecommunications services will grow at a much faster rate, two metres. Reclamation of 10.8ha and the construction of a third exacerbated by growth in mining and downstream processing. berth is also being considered.

3.7.7 Telecommunications Most of the remote centres in the sparsely populated Goldfields- Esperance Region are poorly served in telecommunications technology. Aboriginal communities and those on pastoral stations are particularly affected. The level of service in the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku includes a telephone exchange at Warburton which is linked to the national network via satellite. The communities of Warburton, Mantamaru, Papulankutja and Irrunytju have a telephone service.

There is a limited choice of Internet Service Providers. Telstra Big Pond is now available throughout the region. For regional users, Big Pond offers a rural connect rate, and can be accessed by regional and remote subscribers. The shortage and unreliability of public telephones in many locations, including mine camps, has caused frustration. Together with the need for a reliable power source to use computing technology effectively.

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Mining companies, businesses and local government agree that a The DEP’s regional offices have recently inherited the licensing mobile telephone service is urgently needed in all the main and inspection functions for landfills present in country areas. northern Goldfields centres, and would contribute to efficiency, Consequently regular inspections of these facilities are now being safety, productivity and quality of life. ATSIC and Aboriginal undertaken and it is envisaged that an overall improvement will communities are keen to have better communications facilities, be progressively achieved. especially for education, health and safety, and management. There is a lack of recycling facilities in the region. While mine sites are able to enter into recycling arrangements because it is 3.7.8 Waste Management and Contaminated Sites cost effective in most circumstances due to the nature and Waste management for rural towns and the region generally is volume of products being recycled, local government is limited in important and requires consideration from a regional planning both the volumes and types of materials available. The separation perspective. While there is currently a generally adequate supply of waste is generally labour intensive, which can be limiting to of Class 1 and 2 landfill sites in the region, many of these sites face small local governments, as are the transport costs to reach the ongoing operating constraints. It is therefore important that recycling facilities in Perth and elsewhere. Planning for recycling planning for the provision of future waste management facilities facilities is also required, with particular emphasis on within the region occurs and that suitable sites are identified and regionalisation of these facilities. protected. Importantly, this planning needs to recognise the move toward regionalisation of these facilities and the need to plan Old mine sites, gasworks and other industrial sites are examples of facilities on a regional basis. potential constraints on land use planning that need to be considered in the region, particularly in the Goldfields. The While the Mt Walton Class 5 facility is located within the region, Department of Environmental Protection has requested a there are currently no Class 3 or 4 facilities for the management of meeting with the Department of Minerals and Energy (DME) to low hazard and special waste. Given the amount of industrial draft a Memorandum of Understanding for dealing with activity in the region, planning for the provision of sites for these abandoned mine sites. Although yet to be discussed, it is likely that purposes is also necessary. where a site with contamination issues can be dealt with adequately under the Mining Act, DME will continue to manage While the majority of landfills are managed with no significant those issues. The DEP will play an advisory role to ensure environmental issues, some are either inappropriately located (e.g. consistency of approach and application of standards. placed within major surface drainage lines) or poorly managed. Arrangements need to be made for abandoned sites which cannot be dealt with under the Mining Act.

At this stage it is unclear what the proposed contaminated sites legislation will specifically relate to, however it will be likely to include groundwater contamination from tailings storage facilities and those other issues which cannot be dealt with under the Mining Act. Where contamination from previous activities exists, it will be managed in accordance with the contaminated sites legislation currently being developed.

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PART 2. THE REGIONAL STRATEGYSTRATEGY

Vision Statement for the Goldfields-Esperance Region 2 The Region will be based upon a “ diverse and vibrant economy, offering an attractive lifestyle with a full range of services and recreational opportunities, while embracing environmental principles ” PART 2 – THE REGIONAL STRATEGY

4.0 GOLDFIELDS – ESPERANCE REGIONAL Infrastructure principle: To facilitate strategic development by PLANNING STRATEGY ensuring that land use, transport and public utilities are mutually supportive. An overall vision statement and broad principles provide the foundation for the Strategy. A policy framework will include To achieve this principle, the Strategy process is designed to: appropriate objectives, strategies and recommendations for the integrate land use and transport planning; provide efficient natural environment and the coast, urban settlement and expansion, freight transport routes and hubs; ensure the efficient, progressive heritage management, resource and industrial development and development and servicing of land; promote the development community and regional infrastructure requirements. and optimal use of strategic infrastructure; support the development of major nodal urban settlements; ensure that the A regional land use plan will set out the predominant use of land, provision of public utilities is based on economic and social embracing multiple use concepts which will allow local decision- considerations; and promote public facilities as a means of makers a degree of flexibility in implementation. assisting the creation of regional wealth and providing cultural benefits. Structure plans have been prepared for the City of Kalgoorlie- Boulder and the Town of Esperance as a component of the Environmental principle: To protect and enhance the key regional strategy. The land uses displayed in the structure plans natural and cultural assets of the region, and deliver to all will be complementary to the overall regional strategy and current residents a high quality of life which is based on environmentally approved local initiatives such as the town planning schemes, and sustainable principles. will have a 30-year time frame. The pursuit of the environmental strategies will contribute to a more 4.1 STUDY VISION AND PLANNING PRINCIPLES sustainable future. The strategy process is designed to: encourage the A clear vision statement, principles guiding the Strategy and use of energy sources which have minimal impact on the overall objective statements provide the foundations for the environment; prevent further loss in biodiversity; ensure that air, Strategy and should be established as early as possible. The study water and soil quality are protected and where necessary improved; vision, principles and objectives are based on previously reduce consumption of materials and promote recycling; promote completed strategies by the Ministry for Planning and the management and protection of resources; protect landscape, open Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission. space and public access; enhance the quality of life for all residents; and protect the region’s cultural heritage. Planning provides a way to manage the impacts of growth by seeking a balance between the individual ingredients of our Economic principle: To actively assist in the creation of regional quality of life – the environment around us, the community we wealth, support the development of new industries and live in and the wealth we enjoy. The achievement of such a balance encourage economic activity in accordance with sustainable is a sound basis for the region’s sustainable development. development principles.

The principles set out below should guide future decision-making To achieve this principle, the Strategy process is designed to: through the strategies and actions for each principle. While each provide flexibility in the planning system to meet the needs of principle is unlikely to be met equally in each instance, the best small business; minimise delays in government approval outcome for the region’s future requires that proposals and plans processes; provide for the likely growth of downstream processing fully address each principle. industries and value adding industries; make allowance for the needs of new industries and technologies; and support the further Community principle: To respond to social changes and development of the State’s centres of business, culture and facilitate the creation of vibrant, accessible, safe and self-reliant administration. communities. Regional development principle: To assist the development of To achieve this principle, the Strategy process is designed to: monitor the region by taking account of the region’s special assets and the amount and rate of population growth; respond to the changing accommodating its individual requirements. needs of the population; improve the linkage between land use planning and the provision of human services; provide a range of To achieve this principle, the Strategy aims to provide an housing opportunities; build a sense of community through the environment which encourages business to locate within the design of accessible settlements and public facilities; and incorporate region through the application of economic, social, opportunities for consultation, and include the views of local environmental and infrastructure objectives. communities and groups with specific needs in local plans.

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5.0 STRATEGIC POLICY FRAMEWORK (STRATEGY, In spite of its statistically large workforce, the region suffers from ISSUES, OBJECTIVES AND RECOMMENDATIONS) a lack of resources to provide sufficient services in smaller centres because many of the workers live outside the region. By 5.1 SETTLEMENTS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES encouraging mineral exploration and mining companies to base The growth and development of regions and major regional and house workers and their families in towns in the regional centres is dependent on the availability of land and infrastructure centres such as Kalgoorlie-Boulder and Esperance, as opposed to to facilitate and channel growth. All settlements in regional areas Perth, a more stable population could be achieved. should have access to essential services. Availability of services can The remoteness of many towns in the region makes it difficult to heighten the attraction of settlements, and improvements in the attract and retain staff to provide community services. Strategies level of services should be a fundamental objective. to enhance opportunities and upgrade facilities should be put in Servicing the region is more efficient if higher order services are place by State and local government. focused in major regional or sub-regional centres. Lower order Townscape improvement programs will be used to enhance the settlements can be sustained through the provision of appropriate unique identity of major towns. and adequate services thereby encouraging continued settlement within the region. Kalgoorlie-Boulder is the regional centre in the Aboriginal communities in the region are faced with serious settlement hierarchy, where higher level facilities supporting the issues of infrastructure provision, land use planning and region will be concentrated. The focus of higher level facilities on protection of heritage. Agreements are currently in place with the Kalgoorlie-Boulder does not preclude their location in other towns, three tiers of government to ensure appropriate local government particularly the designated sub-regional centres within the region, or standards are met in the provision of power, water, housing and another town in a particular case. The provision of adequate and municipal services. Priorities for the provision of services are appropriate services in all the towns is supported. based on the Environmental Health Needs Survey (ATSIC, AAD, Health Department of WA, Health and Family Services, Native title claims over the region have complicated development Homeswest, WAMA, 1998). of land resources in townsites. Strategies have been put in place by the relevant government agencies to ensure that suitable land not Improved coordination of planning and the provision of services affected by native title claims is identified for development. In to Aboriginal communities is needed. Community layout plans townsites, where deep sewerage is available, residential assist in this approach. The plans’ effectiveness needs to be development at higher densities will be promoted by State and strengthened by a formal planning approach. A whole-of- local government. To provide a wider choice in housing, the government approach to planning and service delivery to concepts of environmental design and energy-efficient housing Aboriginal communities is recommended. will be promoted.

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Objective

• To transform towns and settlement in the region into self-sufficient and environmentally sustainable communities. Principal Issues

• Land release is made more complex because of the implications of the Native Title Act and the Mining Act. • A proportion of the workforce is based outside the region, and works within the region on a fly-in/fly-out basis. • There is a need to improve the standard of community infrastructure. • The availability of adequate infrastructure (particularly water supply, sewerage, power and sealing of roads) and the lack of infrastructure management throughout Aboriginal communities in the region needs to be addressed. • There is a need for a whole-of-government approach to planning and service delivery to Aboriginal communities. • Conservation of the character and improvement of townscape in the settlements is needed. Guidelines

• Review town planning schemes for each local government, to identify areas for future development, recognising constraints on the land surrounding the townsite. (LG,MfP) • Promote infill development and a range of lot sizes in each town to accommodate a variety of housing density and types. (MfP/LG) • Monitor land supply to provide cost-effective lots for residential, commercial and industrial development. (LG/DOLA, MfP,WC) • Support the implementation of the townscape improvement programs in towns where this has not been completed such as Menzies and Kambalda. (LG,MfP) • Promote the concepts of environmental design and energy-efficient housing in the development of urban areas. (LG, GEDC, MfP) • Involve local Aboriginal communities when planning for future land uses where appropriate, recognise their specific needs in respect to statutory processes and allow for extended consultation time. (LG/MfP,AAD) • Identify shortfalls in the provision of urban services and infrastructure in the urban settlements of the region and promote the coordination of integrated programs for service provision. (GEDC/Mf/LG)

Recommendations

• Undertake consultation to determine the nature and extent of mineralisation to enable forward planning of land releases in major towns and for major projects and infrastructure. (DOLA/DME/CME, LG)

• Continue to update the land supply register for Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Esperance and other towns as required. (LG, MfP, DOLA)

• Prepare Community Layout Plans for major Aboriginal communities in the region. (AAD, ATSIC, LG, MfP)

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5.2 HERITAGE AND CULTURE STRATEGY With respect to European heritage, the Heritage Council of Western Australia has procedures for the protection of places of heritage and Conservation of the State’s heritage contributes to a sense of cultural significance. The National Trust of Australia (WA) community and quality of the environment. The region contains contributes to the identification and protection of heritage places. numerous places of heritage significance associated with the Urban heritage values, as outlined in Municipal Heritage natural and built environment. Heritage places are a valuable Inventories, are to be protected through local government town contribution to the scientific and educational understanding of our planning schemes and government policies. The future planning of past. They stimulate the cultural development of society, provide the region should recognise these processes. diversity and interest in the region and are an essential component of tourism.

The AAD has a legislative responsibility for the administration of the Aboriginal Heritage Act. The region has not been subject to a full Aboriginal heritage study and many more sites are yet to be documented.

Objective

• Identify, protect and manage all heritage areas. Principal Issues

• The need for comprehensive protection and enhancement of the region’s cultural and heritage values. • Protection of the heritage of the region through the preparation of Municipal Heritage Inventories. • Protection of the architecture typical of the region. • Pressure for redevelopment of sites containing historic buildings in Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the potential for economic re-use of historic buildings. • Funding for the restoration of historic buildings. • Responsibility for protection of Aboriginal heritage areas. Guidelines

• Protect urban heritage values, areas of regional landscape and areas of cultural and heritage significance – including those places outlined in the Municipal Heritage Inventories – in accordance with the relative legislation, by incorporation of appropriate provisions in town planning schemes and adoption of appropriate government policies. (LG/HCWA, AAD, MfP) • Identify and seek funding sources for the restoration of historic buildings throughout the region. (LG, HCWA)

Recommendations

• As part of major planning, management and development proposals, incorporate Aboriginal heritage, including site protection and management, native title issues relating to heritage and monitoring of approvals or agreements relating to the Aboriginal Heritage Act. (AAD, LG, MfP)

• Promote the preparation of heritage inventories in town planning schemes to maximise the protection of heritage places. (LG, MfP)

• Actively promote and facilitate the conservation of the regionally significant cultural heritage of the region including the Burt and Hannan Street precincts and the Gwalia townsite. (HCWA, LG)

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5.3 TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AND government planning controls over development, including CONSERVATION STRATEGY controls on the use of septic tanks and excessive fertilisers, should also minimise the impact on groundwater. The environment of the region is diverse ranging from the desert areas in the north-east, and the central Goldfields to the A catchment planning strategy has been prepared for the Esperance sandplain and coastal areas along the south coast. Esperance region by the Esperance Land Conservation District Committee which aims to facilitate the most effective use of water Integrated planning and management of the region should resources, minimise land and water degradation due to contribute to the retention of land in an ecologically sustainable imbalances in the hydrologic cycle, and implement sustainable state. It will be necessary to pursue best use options in terms of farming systems. This strategy will have a positive effect on a land capability and suitability, conservation of soil and land number of environmental issues in the region and will be quality, rehabilitation of degraded areas, protection of natural and promoted. The Lake Warden Catchment Recovery Plan is remnant vegetation and the threat of the spread of dieback and currently being prepared under the coordination of CALM. loss of biodiversity in coastal areas. Saline and hypersaline groundwater is used extensively in the Freehold land which contains isolated pockets of remnant Goldfields for mineral processing. Dewatering from pit and vegetation can remain in private ownership but be part of the underground operations occurs frequently and where the quality integrated conservation system. Fundamental to an integrated of the water is inadequate for use as process water, or where there system is the protection of valuable representative examples of is an excessive volume, the water is often discharged into salt lakes. natural systems, provision of ecological wildlife corridors and Sites which discharge mine dewater into salt lakes are licensed by reduction of land degradation. The need to protect remnant the DEP. As part of this licence the company is required to vegetation generally applies to the southern part of the region demonstrate that the discharge is having no detrimental impact where extensive areas have been cleared for farming. This is on the lake through the provision of an annual report. particularly important in the farming area near Esperance, where the land is predominantly freehold and contains significant areas Groundwater abstraction is licensed and controlled by the Water of remnant vegetation, and where there is considerable demand and Rivers Commission. Abstraction in the northern part of the for subdivision and development for rural-residential purposes. region exceeds recharge, and the groundwater from the palaeochannels is being mined. The distribution of groundwater Clearing controls to assist in the preservation of wildlife habitat, resources is relatively even, with marginally higher resources as well as controlling salinity, waterlogging and revegetation, surrounding Leinster. Although sections of the palaeochannels should be encouraged. and tributaries are completely utilised by current borefields, there is still scope for considerable development throughout the region. In the Esperance sub-region, increased run-off and rising water tables resulting from agricultural clearing have a direct impact on Protection of water reserves, catchment areas and Aboriginal the water quality of the Esperance lakes. Salinity and waterlogging water supplies will occur through the integration of proclaimed are removing land from agricultural production and affecting the water reserves, catchment areas and priority protection areas into coastal environment. Eutrophication6 and siltation are also regional planning schemes and/or town planning schemes to threatening the integrity of the lakes’ ecosystems. protect town and community water supplies for the future.

The Esperance Lakes Nature Reserve Management Plan: 1999-2009 There is a need to manage the rangelands so as to preserve (CALM, 1999) provides recommendations for the management biodiversity and ecological sustainability, protect water quality of the lakes system. Part of the Lake Warden system of wetlands is and quantity and provide for rehabilitation of degraded areas. recognised as having international importance under the Ramsar This will occur through the implementation of sound Convention. environmental objectives and will require various people, groups and organisations to work together to achieve this goal. The quality, salinity and reliability of groundwater varies significantly throughout the Esperance area. There is evidence The pastoral areas of the north-eastern goldfields are the subject of that the saline water table is rising both on the coast and further the Rangeways Project currently being prepared. The project inland. The groundwater resource should be protected through commenced early in 1996 and is funded by the Land and Water integrated management of the groundwater reserves west of Research and Development Corporation and the Commonwealth Esperance and surface water catchments to the north. Local Department of Transport and Regional Services.

6 Eutrophication – process whereby a richness in nutrients results in excessive plant growth, which kills animal life by deprivation of oxygen.

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The project aims to address issues such as: • Encouraging sustainable activities in the region. • The need to get government departments to work together to • Important natural features should be protected. achieve better management of the rangelands. • Water quality and quantity. • Mining companies to work with local communities to achieve • Retention of native flora and fauna. community goals. • Rehabilitation of minesites.

Objectives

• To facilitate appropriate funding to enable effective management and ensure that adequate and representative reserves exist to conserve and protect the biophysical characteristics, and where appropriate provide for multiple use of natural resources. • To protect and provide for holistic and integrated management of the region’s conservation, ecological, recreation and landscape values. • To contribute to the protection of water catchment areas and the ecosystem of wetlands from increased run-off and rising water tables, eutrophication and siltation. • To secure and protect for urban use adequate water reserves of a quality suitable for potable supply. • To protect remnant bushland, especially river corridors on unallocated Crown land. Principal Issues

• Land management techniques. • The effects of agricultural clearing, including increased run-off, rising water tables and salinity, and impact on lakes’ water quality. • Loss of biological diversity, particularly in the cleared agricultural, arid and semi-arid regions and the southern coastal heaths. • Prevention and management to reduce risk of the spread of dieback along the coastal areas of the region. • Involvement of Aboriginal communities in environmental management initiatives. • Protection and management of remnant bushland especially along river corridors. • Connectivity and consolidation of CALM managed reserves. • Protection of the outstanding surface and sub-surface karst features of the Nullarbor. • Rangelands management, including protection of important natural features such as native flora and fauna, lack of water quality and quantity, the need to rehabilitate mine sites. • Provision of adequate and appropriate landfill sites. Guidelines

• Continue to manage and expand the conservation estate as outlined in the Goldfields Region: Regional Management Plan and the South Coast Region: Regional Management Plan.(CALM) • Support the catchment planning strategy developed for the Esperance Region by the Esperance Land Conservation District Committee, including the Lake Warden Catchment Recovery Plan. (LG, MfP,AgWA, CALM) • Continue remediation of rangeland degradation through the Land Conservation District Committees. (AgWA, farmers/pastoralists) • Support Agriculture WA in its rangeland monitoring and station management planning with land managers and pastoralists, and the work of the Land Conservation District Committees and their catchment groups to address land degradation in pastoral areas. (AgWA, CALM) • Continue to utilise land management practices such as the Salinity Action Plan to prevent any further land degradation and salinity, as well as rehabilitate existing degradation in conjunction with the State and local government. (Farming/Pastoral community, AgWA, CALM) • Introduce appropriate planning controls in the Shire of Ravensthorpe and Shire of Esperance Town Planning Schemes to provide compatible land uses for the protection of the priority source areas and the Esperance Lakes. (MfP/LG)

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Recommendations

• Prepare an Integrated Conservation Plan based on: • Protecting, consolidating, enhancing and expanding reserves in the conservation estate to achieve biological representation of natural systems, associated wildlife and genetic diversity. • Inclusion (where possible) of freehold and leasehold enclaves (where private or leasehold land is surrounded by or adjacent to conservation reserves) in the conservation estate by purchase, exchange or joint management arrangements. • Linking existing and proposed regional reserves through other public land and private land to provide ecological linkages and public access. • Protection of regionally important landscapes and important environmental systems in freehold land by appropriate zoning or policy controls. • Management of coastal areas from Cape Arid to Ravensthorpe and further west against the threat of the loss of biodiversity that could be caused by the further spread of dieback in coastal areas. • Preparation of an inventory of important remnant native vegetation in the Esperance sub-region, especially along river corridors, and nomination of mechanisms whereby these remnants can be protected through clearing controls on subdivision, acquisition for reserves or voluntary agreements with landowners. • Provision of recreation and tourist areas which are compatible with conservation and landscape protection. • Recognition of the nationally and internationally significant Nullarbor karst landscape. • Development of interpretive centres at the Nullarbor Plain, Recherche Archipelago, Goldfields Woodlands and Salt Lakes. • Promotion of ecotourism opportunities. (CALM, MfP, AgWA, LG, DEP, WATC, GTA, ERTA)

• Prepare a strategy to identify and protect wetlands and salt lakes based on geomorphic and ecological systems and address the management issues relating to the habitat. (WRC, CALM, LG, DEP)

• Prepare a strategy to protect water catchment areas, particularly potable water from the groundwater reserves around Menzies, Leonora and Laverton. (WRC, WC, CALM, LG, DEP)

• Formulate planning and management measures to reduce fire risk and manage wildfires on unallocated Crown land. (DOLA/CALM, FES)

• Identify and provide an appropriate site/s for landfill of a Class 3 and 4 category for waste management. (DEP, LG, MfP, DME)

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5.4 COASTAL AND MARINE ENVIRONMENT The Report of the Marine Parks and Reserves Selection Working PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION STRATEGY Group (Wilson, 1994) recommends that the waters of the Recherche Archipelago, excluding the Port of Esperance, be The south coast is significant for its environmental, visual considered for reservation as a marine reserve for multiple landscape, heritage and recreational values. There is growing purposes, including conservation of flora and fauna, and public pressure on and demand for the attractions of the south coast area recreation. The proposed marine reserve would protect significant particularly by tourists. There is a need to match the level of seabed habitats, such as seagrass beds and the diverse wildlife development, access and usage of the coast with the retention of habitats, including those of colonies of sea lions, fur seals and the area’s pristine beauty and natural values. seabirds. It also provides a means for stakeholder/community involvement in the management planning process. The Department of Conservation and Land Management is the managing agency for existing coastal conservation reserves The report also recommends that the coast about 50km east and including the Fitzgerald River, Stokes, Cape Le Grand and Cape west of Twilight Cove be surveyed to assess the value of the area as Arid National Parks and island nature reserves in the Recherche a potential marine reserve for the protection of marine flora and Archipelago, and is required by legislation to prepare and review fauna and coastal landforms. the management plans for the parks every 10 years. There are proposals for mariculture7 development which could be The existing coastal management plans do not deal with current an important addition to the region’s economy. On the recreation and development pressures, and preparation of new detrimental side, there are potential impacts of disease and coastal management plans funded by the Coastal Marine pollution if the developments are not adequately monitored. Planning Programme is being considered. The need for a coastal Aquaculture developments can be visually intrusive and care will management plan to focus on the Esperance area, Hopetoun and have to be taken in siting any developments to protect the visual other nodes of development is required as a matter of priority. amenity of the extremely attractive Esperance area.

Objectives

• To protect the significant natural values of the south coast and its associated marine environment and require future development to be undertaken in accord with ecologically sustainable principles. • To provide for marine uses such as commercial fishing, aquaculture and tourism/recreation based on the principles of ecologically sustainable development and protection of the area’s environmental values and visual amenity. Principal Issues

• The need for protection and management of significant marine environments, especially the Fitzgerald Biosphere coastline and the Recherche Archipelago coastline, through reservation as multiple-use marine reserves. • Inconsistent and conflicting planning and management between different government land management agencies. • Increasing pressure for tourism and aquaculture developments and potential impact on the visual amenity of the Esperance coastal scenery. • Development of ecotourism opportunities. • Protection of significant terrestrial environments, especially the unprotected coastal areas as well as existing conservation reserves. • Lack of a coastal management plan outside of National Parks. Guidelines

• Continue to prepare and review the management plans for national parks and coastal conservation reserves. (CALM) • Protect significant terrestrial environments, especially the unprotected coastal areas as well as existing conservation reserves, including the outstanding surface and sub-surface karst features of the Nullarbor. (CALM,MfP)

7 Mariculture is saltwater aquaculture. It is the growth of any seafood in the ocean. Examples include marine finfish, abalone, oysters, seaweed.

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Recommendations

• Initiate the implementation of recommendations from the Report of the Marine Parks and Reserves Selection Working Group (Wilson, 1994) regarding the following: • The waters of the Recherche Archipelago. • The waters adjacent to the Stokes National Park. • The waters adjacent to the Fitzgerald Biosphere Reserve and Twilight Cove. (SCMG/CALM/FWA, GEDC, MfP, LG)

• Initiate the implementation of recommendations from the South Coast Terrestrial and Marine Reserves Integration Study regarding the following: • The waters adjacent to the Fitzgerald Biosphere reserve. • The waters between Israelite Bay and Point Culver. (SCMG/CALM/FWA, GEDC, MfP, LG)

• Prepare a regional coastal management plan which: • Focuses on the Esperance area, Hopetoun and other nodes of development. • Provides an integrated planning approach to coastal areas. (SCMG/MfP/CALM, LG, DEP)

5.5 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY The preparation of basic raw material plans for key areas in the region identifying adequate resources for the future development, The economy of the region is based largely on mining and on the principally of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Esperance and large scale development of other natural resources for basic raw materials industrial activities in the region, is recommended. Such studies quarrying, agriculture, timber and wood production, fishing and will benefit community and industry by providing the basis for aquaculture, industry/downstream processing and tourism. protection from inadvertent sterilisation of important resources by other land uses, including mineral development. They will Resource development underpins the economy of the region and allow rational, orderly extraction of the basic raw material its continuation and expansion are necessary if the region’s resources and provide both producers and users with confidence economic growth is to continue. of assured supply.

5.5.1 Mineral Resources and Basic Raw Materials Strategy Stringent rehabilitation rules apply to operating mines covering Mineral exploration and development is determined by geological the beginning, operational phase and completion of any project. setting, demand, market prices and changes in technology. It takes Companies must rehabilitate the minesite. Areas mined prior to many years to prove up economic deposits, which makes it 1989 did not have such controls applied, and remain without difficult to include mineral extraction in forward planning rehabilitation. There is the possibility that the waste from those concepts. Townsites and adjacent areas in the Goldfields- areas will be re-mined in the future due to technological Esperance Region which have been earmarked for urban improvements. In the interim, the DME is compiling an inventory development may contain significant deposits of high value of disused mines and possibilities for their future rehabilitation. minerals such as gold or nickel. Examples include Kalgoorlie- Boulder, Menzies, Leonora, Laverton, Coolgardie, Kambalda, Norseman and Ravensthorpe. This strategy supports exploration to obtain a clear definition of areas with resource potential, identifying priority mining tenements and time lines for development to facilitate decisions on future urban areas and rehabilitation requirements.

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Objectives

• To facilitate the identification and protection of major mineral resources and basic raw materials and minimise the impact of their development, while maximising their economic impact on the region. • To provide an integrated planning process for resource development projects. Principal Issues

• Potential conflict between mining exploration and urban growth and development. • Access to, and assured supplies of, basic raw materials. • Rehabilitation of previously mined areas. Guidelines

• Encourage the timely and continued exploration and assessment of land for mineral resources ahead of the creation of urban areas. (DME, DRD, MfP, LG) • Mining companies to continue to rehabilitate minesites following completion of mining activities. (DME,LG) • Broker government support to aid the completion of mineral and resource development projects. (GEDC/DME, DRD) • Ensure basic raw material supplies near major regional towns are identified and protected for long term supply options through the preparation of Basic Raw Materials Plans. (MfP, DME, LG, DRD)

Recommendations

• Prepare a mineral resource inventory for the region in order to clarify what land is available for future townsite expansion by: • Examining the potential of identified resource areas particularly in the Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Menzies, Leonora, Laverton, Coolgardie, Kambalda, Norseman and Ravensthorpe townsites. • Clearly defining areas with resource potential, identified priority mining tenements and time lines for development to facilitate decisions on future developments and rehabilitation requirements. (DME, CME, MfP, DOLA, DRD, DEP, LG, KB-CCI)

5.5.2 Industrial Development A major industrial estate has been approved at Mungari, and is The Goldfields-Esperance Region is the base for many significant ready for development. At this stage no major industry has been industries. The Strategy will aim to promote the retention of located in the estate, which provides an outstanding location for existing industry as well as future expansion areas. It supports the industrial development and downstream processing for the identification and development of strategic industry in central goldfields. Kalgoorlie-Boulder (in particular at the Mungari Industrial Park) Provision is made for further general industrial development in and in the Esperance area. Parkeston in Kalgoorlie-Boulder (refer to Section 7.0). The opportunity exists to identify a major industrial area near The need for a site with a service function to the mining industry Esperance to accommodate growth in the economy and facilitate has been outlined for the northern goldfields. A potential location downstream processing and manufacturing. A number of sites in the vicinity of the Leinster townsite has been identified in the have been identified and require further consideration by State Northern Goldfields Mineral Province Study. There is an immediate and local government. There is support for the development of opportunity to provide a service centre within the northern major industry in a strategic location near the port, existing goldfields accommodating contractors, warehousing and support infrastructure and the townsite, with suitable road and rail access services, together with some accommodation. This location is linking the estate with the port; and for such development to be convenient in terms of existing infrastructure and social base. Site designed to have a minimal impact on the environment. services can also be economically provided.

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The study identified the need for a centre to service the increased The concept of further downstream processing of primary mining activity and downstream processing anticipated in the products within the region is supported. All new industrial northern goldfields. It has been estimated that accommodation projects should be assessed on the basis of their net economic, for an additional 500-600 people will be required as a result of this social and environmental benefit to the region and its population. activity near Leinster. High priority needs to be given to waste treatment and disposal and pollution control mechanisms. The industrial site location Companies have indicated that a new service centre within 1.5 and characteristics of the treatment and disposal should take into hours drive of the major mines and/or downstream processing consideration surrounding land uses and population centres, works would be beneficial in terms of reduction in down time and conservation areas, water catchments, soil characteristics and the reduction in stocks of spare parts held at the mines. groundwater levels. Industrial buffers should form part of the industrial estate, but may be used for a variety of uses compatible with the proposed or potential industrial activities.

Objectives

• To facilitate the downstream processing and manufacturing of major mineral resources, basic raw materials, agriculture, pastoral, forestry and fishing industries. • To encourage and provide for a wide range of industrial development in planned estates which minimise land use conflicts and environmental impacts, and maximise the opportunity for efficient production. • To maximise the service, infrastructure and transport opportunities for industrial development and minimise conflicts with surrounding land uses. Principal Issues

• Diversification of the region’s economic base (i.e. beyond mining and agriculture). • Future opportunities for downstream processing industries. • Availability of sufficient land for industrial use. • Industrial waste management. Guidelines

• Broker government support to create diverse, viable, and sustainable industries. (GEDC, DRD, DME, AgWA, LG) • Provide adequate corridors to industrial areas, buffer zones and transport infrastructure, and identify them in town planning schemes. (MfP, LG, DRD, GEDC, LandCorp, Transport)

Recommendations

• Carry out a study to evaluate suitable sites for strategic industrial development in close proximity to the Esperance port. (MfP/LG, DRD, LandCorp)

• Promote and facilitate the development of strategic industry at the Mungari Industrial Park. (DRD/LandCorp, GEDC, LG, MfP)

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5.5.3 Agriculture Strategy the region experience pressure for subdivision, they should also be The challenge for agriculture in the Esperance sub-region is to the subject of assessment. Under the WAPC’s Draft Agricultural 9 develop the industry’s potential for production in a sustainable and Rural Planning Policy a Local Planning Strategy (forming way which minimises land degradation by waterlogging, salinity part of the town planning scheme) is required. and wind erosion and increases whole farm profitability. Other potential uses of productive agricultural land will be The Esperance Region Catchment Planning Strategy (Platt, 1996), considered through the process outlined above. This particularly and catchment planning strategies being developed by the various applies to the land surrounding Esperance where there is Land Conservation District Committees (LCDCs) and catchment considerable pressure for other uses. Evaluation of proposals groups in the sub-region provide reference documents for farmers should focus on a clear demonstration that the longer term and other land managers to strategically focus their activities. They benefits to the community will outweigh the benefits of retaining assist land managers to identify the major catchments and land the agricultural production of the land. systems in their area, management issues for long term Catchment management is an essential part of land use planning. sustainability and a regional strategy for catchment planning. Catchment management relates to the management of surface The small catchment groups are becoming more active than their water catchments. The surface water drainage divisions in the parent LCDCs. The only long term way to arrest land degradation region are: problems is to treat them on a catchment basis. Catchment • Nullarbor Basin planning encourages all landholders and major land and water • Warburton Basin users in the catchment to understand what is happening in regard • Salt Lake Basin to land use, economic activity and environmental and resource condition. A catchment plan requires the participation preferably • Sandy Desert Basin of all the stakeholders in a catchment. • Mackay Basin • Esperance Coast Many farmers within the catchments have changed practices and are implementing works on the ground to combat waterlogging, •Avon River salinity and excess run-off. Much of this work has been done • Ninghan according to farm plans with the catchment in mind. Many • Albany Coast farmers and research scientists are developing integrated farm planning and management systems. While implementation is As part of undertaking catchment planning, planning units continuing, it is important to commence proper monitoring of should be defined based on a range of physical and land use water flows into the lakes to provide feedback to farmers and the characteristics. Planning and management guidelines can then be community on progress and likely trends for the future. prepared to guide landowners, government agencies and decision-makers when considering changes to land use and The Western Australian Salinity Action Plan (AgWA, CALM DEP undertaking further detailed planning activities. It is and WRC, 1996) aims to assist in the control and reversal of the recommended that this exercise be undertaken. Land use hydrological imbalance which leads to salinisation. objectives and guidelines should also outline the range of uses that are suitable and specific planning and management guidelines. Productive agricultural land will be protected from ad hoc This will be a requirement of local planning strategies, subdivision, development and use, by identifying such land and the conservation strategies and management plans. preferred predominant uses and other suitable uses, based on land capability and land suitability analysis and other relevant factors.

Two Limited Rural Strategies8 for the land adjacent to the Esperance townsite have been prepared to identify the capability and suitability of land for rural land uses. As further rural areas in

8 Limited Rural Strategy – is prepared where there is pressure for change and development in rural land use. It may be prepared to facilitate the subdivision of specific parcels of rural land. In the WAPC’s Draft Agricultural and Rural Planning Policy, Limited Rural Strategies are now called Local Planning Strategies.

9 Local Planning Strategies are prepared as part of town planning schemes to provide the rationale for the most appropriate use and development of agricultural and rural land and the preferred pattern of rural settlement in accordance with the WAPC’s Draft Agricultural and Rural Planning Policy.

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Objectives

• To provide productive agricultural land with the capacity to respond to changes in the economy and retain its important role in the regional economy. • To develop a long term ecologically and economically sustainable industry. Principal Issues

• Protection and conservation of agricultural land. • Land degradation resulting from inappropriate land use practices. • Promotion of ecological sustainability in all rural land use activities. • Maintenance of the importance of the agricultural industry in the region. • Diversification of agricultural activity. • Competing land uses such as hobby farming and rural living in agricultural areas. Guidelines

• Endorse and support the principles and aims of the Salinity Action Plan. (AgWA, WRC, LG, CALM, MfP) • Support the actions of the Land Conservation District Committees and community landcare groups in arresting land degradation and promoting land rehabilitation. (AgWA, WRC, LG, CALM, GEDC, MfP) • Support the granting of tax incentives/concessions for farmers/landowners to carry out land rehabilitation. (AgWA, WRC, LG, CALM, GEDC, MfP) • Encourage regular monitoring of groundwater quality and maintain awareness of the results. (WRC,AgWA,LCDCs) • Encourage the application of best practice processes in production. (AgWA, CALM, WRC, LCDCs) • Encourage the development of rural strategies to identify and protect good-quality agricultural land from incompatible land use developments and promote appropriate uses of agricultural land. (LG,MfP,AgWA)

Recommendations

• Prepare a detailed land use plan for the Esperance sub-region outlining: • Planning units based on a range of physical and land use characteristics. • Planning and management guidelines to help landowners, government agencies and decision-makers when considering changes to land use and undertaking further detailed planning activities. (MfP, WRC, AgWA, LG)

• Develop landcare plans for the Esperance sub-region based on: • Planning and management for the rehabilitation of salt-affected areas. • Incorporation of strategic revegetation and best practice processes. (AgWA, CALM, LG, SCRIPT)

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5.5.4 Pastoral Strategy Traditionally the pastoral industry has been a land user, and it is The majority of land users in the pastoral areas and rangelands of now considered that it should become a land manager. Integrated the region occupy land on a leasehold basis. With pastoral leases land management is the integration of the role of agencies such as due to expire in 2015, tenure uncertainty and depressed wool CALM to diversify management instead of land use. The prices have combined to make pastoralism difficult at present. In pastoralists or other custodians of the land should be the addition many of the pastoralists in the region have native title managers of activities on the land such as conservation, mining claims over their leases. The effect of native title on pastoral leases and exploration, tourism and fire within a sustainable land is a significant issue affecting current and future planning. management system. The concept of integrated land management Security of land tenure needs to be resolved to ensure long term in the pastoral areas requires further consideration, particularly projects, investment and commitments to effective sustainable by government in conjunction with pastoralists. management and landcare can proceed. Actions which should be taken in the pastoral areas to improve the At present the wool industry on pastoral leases is not economically current situation include: or structurally viable and other income-producing activities are • Support and promote government initiatives such as business needed (AgWA, 1998). The potential to improve wool production and industry development grants. on pastoral leases exists provided appropriate trials, improved • Promote management for conservation and other integrated marketing and vegetation improvements continue to occur. land management activities (e.g. CALM Section 16A Pastoralists require encouragement to promote business skills to Agreements, MOUs or other agreements negotiated by a develop niche markets and be more responsive to market landholder under which CALM becomes involved in the requirements. management of all or part of the property) as a land management integration and diversification opportunity. Some rangeland properties are degraded due to past management practices and policies. Environmentally fragile areas need to be • Identify and fund regional priorities for fencing which protected from grazing activities. conforms with regional land use and conservation objectives for domestic, native and feral animals. Pastoral land has the potential for multiple land use activities with • Support continuing industry research and development proper management. Land uses which are environmentally and projects (complete the Rangeways Project, Centre for the economically sustainable should be encouraged. There are a Management of Arid Environments – Kalgoorlie). number of possible new activities, including industries associated • Support rangelands monitoring. with fish farming, citrus trees, plantation, forestry, cattle feed lots, horticulture, agriculture and conservation, which could be • Improve regional environment management. undertaken if environmentally acceptable and subject to normal The National Principles and Guidelines for Rangeland Management approvals processes, to reduce pressure on the bulk of the (ANZECC and ARMCANZ, 1999) established a framework for rangeland areas. Horticulture in the rangelands is restricted by those with interests in the rangelands to develop strategies and freight costs and market access. The greatest opportunities for actions to manage change and ensure a viable legacy for future success are likely to be those associated with expanding the land generations. The challenge is to balance the diverse economic, management role, and diversification into activities that utilise cultural and social needs of rangeland residents and users with the resources occurring naturally in the rangelands such as need to maintain its natural resources and conserve our biological sustainably harvesting kangaroos and emus, goat farming (with and cultural heritage. The report lists three goals: careful management), timber, sandalwood plantations, 1. Conservation and management of the natural environment. beekeeping, wildflowers, seed collecting, firewood collecting and tourism. Provision of station-stay accommodation is an option to 2. Sustainable economic activity. supplement station income. 3. Recognition and support for social, aesthetic, cultural and heritage values, diversity and development. The use of old mine pits for alternative activities is a possibility. Depending upon the water quality, suitable uses could be stock water, finfish aquaculture, recreational fishing, irrigation water and yabbie or marron farming.

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Some of the key principles and values which underpin the report: • The aspirations and inherent rights of indigenous peoples, • Ecologically sustainable management of natural resources their relationship with the rangelands, and the need for should be the underlying principle, and the principle against culturally appropriate negotiation processes, must be which commercial use of rangeland resources must be tested. recognised. • While legislative and compliance responsibility for ecologically • Prevention of any resource degradation is more effective than sustainable management resides with government at all levels, rehabilitation. primary responsibility for natural resource management rests • The precautionary principle should be adopted so that with land users, in accordance with regional objectives, decisions are based on the best data available, lean to the planning processes and relevant legislation. conservative and do not result in irreversible loss of • While there is a place for both incentives and sanctions in opportunity. achieving changes in management in the public interest, The Rangeways Project is developing ways by which land users change is more constructively achieved through can come together to implement planning decisions while encouragement than coercion. ensuring the best and fairest use and management of the rangelands. Outcomes from this project will have practical application in planning.

Objectives

• To develop a new land management system for the rangelands. • To develop a viable diversified, integrated and sustainable pastoral and land management industry that retains its important role in the regional economy and is to the benefit of future generations. Principal Issues

• Security of land tenure and native title issues. • Resolution of conflict between mining, Aboriginal and pastoral interests. • Economic viability of pastoral enterprises. • Lack of financial resources to get pastoral enterprises started. • Diversification of agricultural/pastoral products and effective land use. • Sustainable land use and production. Guidelines

• Support the finalisation of the Rangeways Management Strategy. (Rangeways/GEDC, AgWA, PB, CALM, MfP) • Encourage the development of appropriate trials, improved marketing and vegetation improvements to enable pastoralists to develop niche markets. (AgWA, PB) • Promote alternative land uses, if environmentally acceptable and subject to normal approval processes, such as fish farming, citrus trees, plantation, forestry, cattle feed lots, horticulture, agriculture and conservation. Also activities which utilise resources occurring naturally in the rangelands such as sustainably harvesting kangaroos and emus, goat farming (with careful management), timber, sandalwood plantation, beekeeping, wildflowers, seed collecting, firewood collecting and tourism. (AgWA, PB, CALM) • Encourage improved management practices and develop policies for protection of environmentally fragile areas from grazing activities. (CALM, AgWA, PB) • Continue to progress the development of the Centre for Management of Arid Environments for research and teaching in subjects linked to arid land management. (ED/Curtin University, GEDC, DOCAT)

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Recommendations

• Assess and implement where appropriate the recommended actions within the National Principles and Guidelines for Rangeland Management. (PB/PGA/AgWA/CALM/DEP)

5.5.5 Forestry There are a number of key areas for further research. In the short to medium term these are: Timber Plantation Strategy The southern part of the region, specifically the Esperance and • To continue monitoring tree survival and growth over the Ravensthorpe local government areas, have the natural attributes current trial plot program being carried out by CALM, AgWA to develop sustainable plantations and agroforestry on private and SEFF. cleared farmland. Integrated farm forestry can be more profitable • To identify a range of already established farm forestry than traditional grazing and offers the environmental advantages plantings on farms and establish short and long term of protection of land from degradation by wind and salinity. monitoring of the most important ecological parameters (e.g. Farm forestry is a suitable method of farm diversification in this water table depths, soil moisture, soil nutrients, subsoil part of the region and provides opportunities for a value added structure), forestry system, agricultural system, financial and industry and manufacturing in the area. social parameters. • To undertake resource inventory work and set up systems for Timber plantations are a land use which aids diversification of the ongoing monitoring of plantings and harvest. agricultural base, but also competes with traditional agricultural use of land. The challenge faced by farmers, government and • To consider alternative commercial species. industry in the Esperance sub-region is to develop a viable and • To carry out feasibility studies about further opportunities for world competitive forestry industry based on integrated tree alternative methods of wood processing and local value adding. plantings that complements existing farming practices, increases whole farm profitability and optimises environmental stability. Government should continue to contribute financial resources to implement in whole or part sub-programs which are a part of the In 1999 the medium rainfall zone (400mm-600mm) and the sand overall development of the timber plantation industry. Over time plain in the Esperance area was targeted for CALM’s newest Farm this responsibility will decline and where appropriate the function Forestry Program, the Maritime Pine Project, which is a key will be taken on by the private sector. component of the Salinity Action Plan. In 1999, 500 hectares of Maritime Pine was planted and this should rise to around 2,000 Natural Forest Resource Production hectares per year by 2001. With continued sustainable harvesting of the natural resource, harvesting and processing of specialty woods such as sandalwood In the Goldfields sub-region sandalwood is the only timber and Goldfields Woodland species, there is potential for ongoing species trialed for plantations. There is some potential for a development in the region allowing further regional diversification. plantation industry to develop in this part of the region following trials of appropriate species. The natural forest resource should continue to be managed on a sustainable basis.

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Objective

• To enable the timber resource from plantations and natural stands to become an important, integrated and sustainable component of the region’s economy. Principal Issues

• The need to diversify the use of pastoral and agricultural land. • Opportunities to develop a value added industry and manufacturing in the region. Guidelines

• Continue to research and promote the development of specialty timber industries in the Goldfields. (CALM, Private sector)

Recommendations

• Identify areas with potential and promote the benefits of timber plantations and agroforestry to the rural community. (SEFF/AgWA, CALM)

• Facilitate the development of speciality timber industries based on sustainable utilisation of natural resources. (CALM, GEDC, PB)

5.5.6 Fishing and Aquaculture Strategy • The availability of regional infrastructure for processing and Aquaculture has diversified the regional economy and is growing product handling. rapidly in regional areas of WA at approximately 10 per cent per • The possibility of creating smaller landholdings in rural areas annum. This is particularly important because it is export to provide an economic opportunity for development. orientated, and can contribute to economic growth. To encourage the development of the bluefin tuna industry as a coastal aquaculture industry, a study into suitable sites (to address The development of aquaculture using inland saline waters is a the potential conflict with recreational and other users) has been potential new industry that will add to the overall economic and prepared. This study did not satisfy community concerns, and a employment value of aquaculture production in the region. broader Aquaculture Development Strategy for the Esperance The main issues from an economic and planning perspective are: sub-region is to be undertaken to identify suitable sites that will • Environmental management, including the evaporation of not have a detrimental social or environmental impact. Fisheries saltwater. WA is preparing an aquaculture plan for the Recherche Archipelago. • Access to feedstock, food and equipment.

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Objective

• To utilise the region’s recreational, commercial and aquaculture fisheries resource within ecologically sustainable limits so that these activities do not conflict with one another, or with the conservation/tourism values of the area. Principal Issues

• Lack of resources allocated to policing recreational catches. • Development of additional recreational fishing locations. • Value adding to the region’s commercial fish catch. • Protection of fish breeding grounds. • Sustainability of the fish resource for professional, tourism and recreational purposes. • Continuation of research and development of the aquaculture industry. • The need to evaluate the environmental and economic viability of aquaculture developments taking into account the visual amenity of the Esperance coastal scenery. • The need to identify areas for inland aquaculture development. • The need for coordination/integration of government processes relating to applications for fisheries development. Guidelines

• Sustain commercial and recreational fishing, aquaculture and fisheries habitats through sound environmental and resource management practices. (FWA) • Provide the future land and water requirements for the aquaculture industry. (FWA,MfP) • Provide opportunities for integrated aquaculture, fishing and tourism ventures through appropriate town planning scheme provisions. (LG,MfP,WATC)

Recommendations

• Prepare a strategy for the development of aquaculture in inland/desert saline waters which addresses the following: • Availability of project resource and funding. • The allocation of land and appropriate zoning for inland aquaculture development, including the ability of farms to be subdivided to provide an economic opportunity for development. • Environmental management, including the disposal of saltwater. • Access to seedstock, food and markets. • Provision of appropriate infrastructure such as power. (FWA, DEP, AgWA, GEDC, CALM, LG)

• Promote the coordination and integration of government processes and mechanisms for the consideration and development of aquaculture projects. (FWA, CALM, DEP, LG)

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5.5.7 Tourism and Recreation Strategy The south coast with its spectacular scenery and natural Tourism in the region has diversified over recent years as visitors wilderness values has conservation, recreation and aesthetic become more aware of the different attractions. Tourism has values that should be retained and protected. Conserving the major potential to diversify the economic base of the Goldfields- wilderness appeal of the south coast is an issue for CALM to Esperance Region. address through review of its management plans. The identification of other coastal areas for conservation purposes is To encourage visitors, particularly international tourists, to stay in an issue to be considered in the wider context of future coastal the region, more attractions will need to be developed which management. The further potential for ecotourism is immense highlight the region’s unique environment, including and requires careful management. ecotourism10 and heritage developments. The development of integrated tourism products and a comprehensive marketing The growth of the tourism industry requires improved tourist strategy should be promoted. The Gwalia townsite and Windarra infrastructure such as the upgrading of tourist roads and nickel mine are examples of two important attractions in the provision of appropriate signage. There is also the need to reduce northern goldfields which have strong potential to attract more conflicts between tourist traffic and heavy haulage vehicles. tourists and should be promoted. A comprehensive tourism development strategy has been The region has significant ecotourism assets and has great potential prepared for the south-east part of the region, and is currently to develop these further. The desert areas have potential through being implemented. There is a need to develop a similar strategy developing a cultural experience of desert life through contact with for the Goldfields sub-region, to provide a blueprint for future Aboriginal people living on their homelands. At the same time this tourism development and market positioning. The Goldfields would give Aboriginal people an opportunity to become involved Tourism 2000 Plan is currently in preparation and should be in economic development and strengthen their cultural identity. completed by the end of 2000. The natural environment of the south coast has a distinctive Tourism statistics traditionally include business travellers, and unspoilt beauty with a potential to develop ecologically sustainable this is by far the biggest tourism market sector in the Goldfields. tourism that fosters environmental understanding, appreciation This strategy acknowledges the positive economic benefits and conservation. The South-West Eco-Museum concept is a delivered by business travellers, and recognises that Kalgoorlie- project initiated by the South-West Development Commission Boulder needs to develop its tourism potential in other niche aimed at fostering environmental and cultural understanding, markets including self drive, conferences and meetings, air appreciation and conservation. It has developed into 19 Eco- stopovers, as a campervan hub, and by maximising the benefits Museums at sites of environmental significance across the South- resulting from new developments such as the Australian West Region. A similar concept could be developed in the Prospectors and Miners Hall of Fame. Goldfields-Esperance Region.

Objective

• To promote the continued expansion of tourism, ecotourism and recreation where appropriate within the region and provide supporting infrastructure. Principal Issues

• The requirement for additional accommodation in Kalgoorlie-Boulder during peak periods (e.g. conferences, Goldfields Mining Expo).

• Increasing pressure for tourism on the south coast.

• Maximisation of tourism potential flowing from the development of the Outback Highway.

• The need to incorporate Aboriginal culture and heritage as an ecotourism opportunity to facilitate cross-cultural understanding.

10 Ecotourism – has been defined as “Travel to remote or natural areas which aims to enhance understanding and appreciation of the natural environment and cultural heritage while avoiding damage or deterioration of the experience for others (Figgis 1992).”

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Guidelines

• Develop coordinated regional tourism marketing strategies. (WATC, GTA, ERTA, GEDC, CCI)

• Promote agricultural tourism in the form of farm-stay accommodation. (WATC,GTA,ERTA)

Recommendations

• Prepare a coordinated tourism strategy for the Goldfields Region to: • Identify future tourism development needs. • Identify appropriate locations for tourist facilities in areas with tourism potential. • Provide opportunities for nature-based tourism. • Promote the location and design of facilities which minimise adverse impacts on the landscape and surrounding uses. • Make provision for appropriate land use and infrastructure. (GTA, WATC, GEDC, MfP, LG, KB-CCI)

• Identify suitable sites for the development of tourism and recreation infrastructure and development. (LG, MfP)

• Examine the Port of Esperance’s capacity to accommodate cruise ships, and undertake a cost/benefit analysis of infrastructure requirements. (Transport, ERTA, EspPA)

• Investigate Middle Island as a potential site for day-use ecotourism activities. (WATC, CALM, ERTA, EspPA)

• Identify the potential for development of ecotourism museums throughout the region on sites with ecotourism significance similar to those that have been developed in the South-West Region. (GTA/ERTA/WATC, ONT)

• Prepare a development and management strategy for the Gwalia townsite to: • Provide for tourist facilities. • Ensure ongoing management. • Preserve its heritage. (WATC/LG, GTA, GEDC)

• Maintain existing roads and develop additional tourist routes in the region. (WATC, MRWA, LG)

• Investigate the setting up of a regional interpretative display at the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Airport and at the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Railway Station. (GTA, WATC)

• Develop Wilson Street as a feature promenade from the Railway Station to Hannan Street. (LG, GTA, WATC)

• Promote and encourage Aboriginal involvement in tourism initiatives. (WATC, GTA, GEDC, LG)

• Produce a tourism implementation strategy that identifies key development issues and achievable outcomes. (WATC, ERTA, GTA, GEDC, LG)

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5.5.8 Regional Enterprise Development Strategy development. The GEDC can offer advice to operators of new There are considerable opportunities to strengthen the existing enterprises and pursue grants and other assistance available for economic sectors of the region’s economy. In addition, its vast development of initiatives. The GEDC, in association with the geographical area and diverse environment and cultural history Kalgoorlie-Boulder Chamber of Commerce and the Industry make the region a unique area for education, research and cultural Supplies Office, has recently published a regional Industry developments. The proposed and potential regional economic Capability Directory. initiatives outlined in Section 3.6.9 will improve the economic The directory aims to: base of the region and promote its unique characteristics. • Maximise local content in new and existing resource projects. The Centre for Management of Arid Environments (CMAE), for • Assist local businesses to tender successfully for a greater example, will play an important role in fostering new service proportion of this work. industries based on rangeland management and soil technology. • Encourage them to develop their capability to meet the needs The priority of the proposed centre is research and teaching of major developers and operators. (training in land management and land use diversification in new • Promote the capability of the region’s businesses to project industries focused on arid shrublands). The CMAE can assist in developers and major contractors in the construction and areas such as the pastoral industry, which is experiencing major general engineering sectors. economic difficulties through substantial reduction in product prices. The CMAE can play a crucial role in developing diversified The establishment of an Industry Development Centre in industries for the region through focusing community led Kalgoorlie-Boulder aims to increase local content in major research and by acting as a conduit to national and international projects within the region. markets and expertise which can provide access to new markets and product ideas. With many large resource projects in the feasibility and implementation stage throughout the region, local content is an The region has a relatively large Aboriginal community and important issue. The Murrin Murrin, Cawse and Bulong Nickel opportunities exist for its involvement in regional enterprise Projects, together with associated infrastructure, alone had an development. The consultation with Aboriginal communities that estimated construction cost of almost $2 billion. While the occurred as part of this strategy identified economic economic benefits of these and other resource projects are opportunities for Aboriginal people such as involvement in important to Australia and Western Australia as a whole, it is also ecotourism as a way of allowing traditional skills to be utilised. important that communities and businesses in the region Small business enterprises for passing tourists near Aboriginal maximise their opportunities. communities; involvement in cottage type industries such as timber projects; and land management strategies, including The GEDC, in association with the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Chamber ranger training and rangelands management, are opportunities of Commerce, is proposing to establish an Industrial with potential. This should be encouraged by vocational training, Development Centre which will reinforce the effectiveness of the through a combination of formal and on-the-job training. directory by providing an ongoing linkage between local service companies and project developers. Regional Centres should have Organisations such as the GEDC are instrumental in encouraging land set aside for regional enterprises. the development of regional enterprises and economic

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Objectives

• To promote the economic development of the region through the promotion of initiatives to assist industry or developments unique to the region. • To support the existing core industries of mining and agriculture and their service industries. • Diversification of the regional economy to reduce dependence on the core industries. Principal Issues

• Availability of affordable land for the development of business enterprises. • Retention of young leaders and potential business developers in the region. Guidelines

• The provision of land to accommodate proposed and future regional initiatives to be monitored by the proposed Goldfields-Esperance Region Planning Coordinating Committee. (GERPCC) • Continue to progress towards development of the Australian Prospectors and Miners Hall of Fame in Kalgoorlie- Boulder. (GEDC,LG) • Continue to encourage economic development and the development of regional enterprises by compiling information and providing advice to operators of new enterprises or new entrants to the industry seeking to be established, and pursue grants and other assistance available for development of initiatives. (GEDC, CCI) • Encourage the involvement of Aboriginal communities – in ecotourism; small business enterprises for passing tourists near Aboriginal communities; cottage type industries such as timber projects; and land management strategies, including ranger training and rangelands management – by vocational training through a combination of formal and on-the-job training. (GEDC, CCI, CALM, LG, WATC)

Recommendations

• Identify suitable sites for the development of future regional enterprise initiatives. (LG, MfP, GEDC)

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5.6 REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY mean that the provision and maintenance of infrastructure within the region is expensive. Much of the existing infrastructure is of a The improvement of regional infrastructure can assist in creating lesser standard than in other parts of regional Australia, with the regional wealth and providing community stability. Physical exception of the two major centres, Kalgoorlie-Boulder and infrastructure is the range of basic services required for settlement Esperance. An Infrastructure Audit of service provision in the and includes water and wastewater, power and energy, transport region has identified gaps and future needs. Through the i.e. road, rail, air and port, and telecommunications. Country identification of regional infrastructure needs in this Strategy the areas should have access to basic and essential services. From a Government will be better placed to make a commitment to regional perspective it is essential that regional infrastructure is provide fundamental infrastructure to the region, and to foster upgraded and maintained to encourage and promote economic the continued development of the mining, agricultural, pastoral, development. The size of the Goldfields-Esperance Region and timber, fishing, aquaculture and tourism industries in the region. the distances between towns

Objective • To facilitate timely and coordinated provision of regional infrastructure to meet current and future needs.

5.6.1 Water and Wastewater Strategy • Other options such as wastewater reuse be progressed to meet Sourcing of water is severely limited, particularly in the Goldfields the needs of discrete markets as appropriate. sub-region, given its arid climate and limited saline groundwater. At this stage there does not appear to be any one option for the Extensive study has been carried out to determine the availability future supply of water to the Goldfields. Water Corporation of water supplies in the region. There are three principal sources conceptual studies suggest seawater could be piped to Kalgoorlie- of water to the region: pipeline – potable, harvested surface water Boulder from Esperance for a price of between $0.70/kL and and palaeochannel – hypersaline. $1.50/kL. The Goldfields Utilities Limited proposal to process sea The mining industry will continue to use the hypersaline water water and produce potable water could potentially provide water supplied from the groundwater in the region until a financially at a cost of $2.00/kL, however this is conceptual and yet to be viable alternative is found. However, current hypersaline demand proved. The proposal is progressing to the final feasibility stage. is considerably in excess of the natural recharge rates. The region Progression of any of the bulk water supply options (Esperance to will continue to rely on imported potable water unless the cost of Kalgoorlie-Boulder pipelines, either sea water or desalinated) will alternative supply methods is significantly reduced. be dependent on demand. The gold industry has shown an interest in seawater if it is priced between $0.70/kL and $0.90/kL. The Kalgoorlie-Boulder WaterLink Final Report has reviewed opportunities for improvements to, and expansion of the existing Other options for water include piping desalinated sea water from water supply including: a water pipeline from Esperance to Perth to the Goldfields, and a Geraldton to Goldfields water pipeline. Kalgoorlie-Boulder; a desalination plant; and upgrading the For private producers to provide a dual supply for water, as a back-up existing G&AWS pipeline as well as increasing storage capacity. It in the event of a supply shortage, incentives should be encouraged. aims to promote a more integrated approach to all aspects of water supply, use and disposal within the eastern Eucla is the only town without a water scheme. The Government Goldfields region. should instruct the Office of Water Regulation to oversee the implementation of a public water supply for Eucla, to make The report recommends: potable water available for all residents. • The Esperance to Kalgoorlie-Boulder pipeline, probably in the seawater form, be given further detailed consideration as Leonora, Laverton and Menzies currently have issues relating to the next new source for industry. This should be progressed the quality of the water provided by the existing schemes, relatively quickly in order to meet the needs of the emerging especially as high nitrate levels pose health risks to pregnant nickel laterite second stage developments before alternate women. Water Corporation has indicated that water quality will sources are adopted. be marginally improved to these towns when the planned upgrades to the schemes are completed. Water quality will still be • The G&AWS supply continue to be augmented in the short to lower than urban standards but should be improved sufficiently medium term. to meet health requirements on nitrates.

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Objective

• To provide consumers and industry with an ongoing water supply at an appropriate cost and quality. Principal Issues

• Reliance on and increasing demand for water from the G&AWS and its sources. • Poor quality of potable water supplies in the northern Goldfields. • Lack of a public water supply in Eucla. • Increasing use of palaeochannel water by the mining industry. • The high levels of salt being brought to the surface due to the continuous use of hypersaline, palaeochannel water.