Matilda Bay Reserve - Department of Environment and Conservation

DISCUSSIONThe leases represent major levels of use of the Reserve and provide recreational opportunities forlocal, interstate and international visitors, which number over 250 000 a year. The three yacht clubson the Reserve have a membership of approximately 3 000 people. Restaurant patronage is over 50000 people a year, 40% of whom are from interstate and overseas.A problem exists with public access to the foreshore because of the security requirements of theleases. Although most users, apart from visitors to lease areas, visit the central parts of the Reserve, itis essential that access along the length of the Reserve be provided according to the Swan RiverManagement Strategy (Management Strategy Task Force, 1988). Nevertheless, the leases have a needfor security, especially at night.The leases on the Reserve are widely accepted by the public. However, it is probable that furthermajor developments would be opposed.ACTIONS1. Further leases should not be allowed.2. Minimise changes to existing lease areas, and follow the principle that any additional areaprovided to [ease holders be compensated by the equivalent release of land for public use.3. Minimise changes within the lease areas, but allow changes if they are necessary for the moreefficient functioning of the lease.4. Changes to buildings must be approved by the NPNCA and the Swan River Trust.5. Progressively implement an overall architectural theme on the Reserve as opportunities forbuilding changes arise.6. Standardise, where possible, the principles guiding the conditions of club leases.7. Continue public access to the foreshore during daylight hours.8. Swan River Trust and the Department of Marine and Harbours to refer to CALM all extensionsor changes to sea bed leases and private moorings.27