Labor vows to invest $3.5 million in William Bay National Park upgrades and Munda Biddi Trail realignment

Infrastructure around three well-known Great Southern tourist spots will be upgraded under a re-elected Labor government, as the minister for the environment pledges $3.5 million for William Bay National Park assets. On Friday, Reece Whitby said the funding would be committed to accessibility improvements in the form of new boardwalks and sealed paths at Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks, and diverting the Munda Biddi Trail off William Bay Road. A sum of $1m would be used to upgrade the main access path to Green Pool; $850,000 would be used for a connector boardwalk at Greens Pool, and $850,000 for the upgrade of the Elephant Rocks access path. A sum of $800,000 would be allocated to the realignment of the Munda Biddi Trail off William Bay Road. Mr Whitby said he hoped the works would protect the sanctity of the natural assets for the future. “Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks are the jewels in the crown of William Bay National Park, and we want to ensure visitors can enjoy these attractions for generations to come,” he said. “These upgrades will enhance the visitor experience and improve sustainable access in the park, while creating regional jobs and supporting local businesses in the Great Southern region.” The funding would replace the national park’s ageing infrastructure by adding more than 200 parking bays, lookouts, toilet blocks, picnic tables, bicycle racks and signs. Member for Warren-Blackwood Jane Kelsbie labelled the projects vital to securing Greens Pool and Elephant Rocks’ future as the region’s beloved destinations. “With increasing visitor numbers each year, it’s essential that any infrastructure we deliver is high-quality and sustainable,” she said. “This $3.5 million investment in William Bay National Park will upgrade access paths to protect our environment while enhancing accessibility, ensuring we preserve the natural landscapes. “The realignment of the Munda Biddi Trail is a game changer for cyclists. “By moving the trail off William Bay Road, we’re making one of the world’s longest off-road cycle trails safer and more enjoyable, while also encouraging more people to ride to William Bay.”