Sutherland Shire Council has voted to vigorously support the bid to have UNESCO grant World Heritage Listing to the Royal National Park.

Sutherland Shire Mayor, Kent Johns has written to the Minister for the Environment and Heritage and local members of Parliament, seeking their support for the campaign and council will also promote the bid on its website and community newsletter Our Shire. 

“The Royal National Park is the only significant national park in the world contained within a city,” the Mayor said. “The Park‟s 16,000 hectares serve as the „lungs of Sydney‟ and attract an incredible 4 million visitors a year so we fully support the campaign to have it World Heritage listed.”

“I congratulate the First National Park campaign group, led by Chairman Bob Walshe OAM, for taking up this cause to protect such a precious natural wonder.

“The Royal National Park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna and outstanding geology and scenery that is keenly studied by scientists and students at all levels. It also possesses a rich cultural heritage, including many Aboriginal sites and artefacts, which need to be preserved in their natural settings for people to enjoy for generations to come,” Mayor Johns said.

“The Royal National Park is a drawcard for tourists and a World Heritage Listing will no doubt reinforce its place as a popular destination for visitors from around the country and the world.

“In addition to supporting this campaign, council will be seeking advice on whether to put forward Heathcote National Park and Garrawarra State Conservation Area to receive World Heritage Listing,” he said.

Source: Sutherland Shire Council