Environment, Culture & Heritage Questions
-
What is the Ningaloo Lighthouse Project’s commitment to sustainability?
-
We are dedicated to preserving the Ningaloo Coast’s natural environment and are developing a sustainability strategy to reduce the Ningaloo Lighthouse Project’s carbon footprint. Considered initiatives include:
- Optimising passive design strategies to encourage natural ventilation and daylight
- Developing energy-efficient systems
- Adopting a range of strategies in relation to treatment and reuse of water and renewable energy generation options such as solar and battery
- Recycling organic waste for garden fertilisation to divert food waste from landfill
- Integrating a smart waste educational plan for the Project and guests, together with on-site waste separation and recycling strategies
- Installing onsite electric vehicle charging facilities
-
-
Will the Ningaloo Lighthouse Project influence turtle nesting habitats in the area?
-
The turtle nesting habitats are located within the Jurabi Coastal Park and outside the boundaries of the proposed Project site, but we believe that it is vital to educate and inform visitors of appropriate behaviour when walking through habitats and observing turtles.
We are committed to ensuring healthy nesting habitats and turtle populations and will continue to work closely with the Exmouth office of the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions to help visitors and locals continue to conserve and protect the marine sea turtles in this area.
-
-
Will lights from the Ningaloo Lighthouse Project confuse turtles that traditionally nest in the area?
-
We are committed to ensuring that lights from the Project do not impact nesting turtle habitats. Specialist environmental scientists have undertaken turtle nesting research along the Jurabi Coastal Park near the proposed Project site and we have taken this into account when designing the lighting.
Once the Project is operational, this research will provide essential benchmark data for ongoing light monitoring and hatchling orientation. It will also be used to create a lighting management plan to help mitigate light pollution and conserve the dark night sky and which will be used to inform the Project approval process.
-
-
Has any consideration been given to the area’s Aboriginal heritage and cultural sensitivities?
-
Yes. We are engaging with the Traditional Owners and have a deep respect for the cultural significance of the site. We believe the Ningaloo Lighthouse Project offers an opportunity to tell stories of Padjari Manu (Vlamingh Head) and Nyinggulu through a growing relationship and understanding between the Nyinggulu Ganyarajarri people and our company.
Our project team is developing a Cultural Heritage Management Plan to ensure Baiyungu, Yinikurtura and Thalanyji heritage in the area is respected and retained. As with any new development, our development proposal must comply with the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 before it is approved.
-
-
What will happen to the Vlamingh Head lighthouse keepers’ cottage?
-
The lighthouse keepers’ cottage will be restored and maintained as an integral part of the Project, ensuring its ongoing use and enjoyment by the community. The small grave located near the site boundary will also be retained and incorporated within the site.
-
-
Will the existing dune system between the proposed Project and the beach be lowered?
-
No. The dune system and beach adjacent to the proposed Project forms part of the Jurabi Coastal Park and is jointly managed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and the Shire of Exmouth.
-
Local Content Questions
-
Will there be jobs for local people?
-
Yes. We will prioritise jobs for people who live in Exmouth or surrounding areas. There will be jobs available during the construction phase, and once the Project is open to the public, there will be a range of jobs associated with its ongoing operation. Email us to register your interest.
-
-
How can local businesses and suppliers get involved?
-
We continue to partner with Exmouth businesses and suppliers wherever possible as part of the Project.
Email us to register your interest .
-
Project Questions
-
What work is being carried out on the site in 2022?
-
Site preparatory works will be carried out to make the Project site safe. The current buildings are end of life and will not last another cyclone season. We also need to carry out maintenance to ensure all electrical infrastructure is safe. Debris and rubbish on site will be removed and, where possible, recycled.
-
-
Will there be work carried out on the lighthouse keeper’s cottage?
-
No. The lighthouse keeper’s cottage will be excluded from planned site preparatory works. The cottage will be restored as part of the main construction works which will commence once the Project has gained planning approval.
-
Access Questions
-
Will Yardie Creek Road close during construction?
-
No. During construction and operation, access to Yardie Creek Road will remain open and accessible to the public.
-
-
Will public access to the coast adjacent to the Project be restricted?
-
No. The public will retain full access to the beach and coast.
-
-
Will there be a private beach exclusively for guests?
-
No. The coastline near the property will be accessible to everyone.
-
-
Will the Exmouth community be able to use the Project’s facilities once complete?
-
Yes, the community will be welcome to use facilities at the Project. We will provide details closer to the time.
-
-
How much will it cost to stay at the new accommodation?
-
Costs will vary depending on the type of accommodation guests choose to book. There will be a mix of accommodation options to suit various budgets and traveller types.
-
-
Are there any future proposals to install maritime infrastructure in front of the proposed Project?
-
No. Exmouth has three boat-launching and jetty facilities: the Exmouth Boat Harbour, Bundegi Boat Ramp and Tantabiddi Boat Ramp.
-
Amenity Questions
-
Will the Project involve high-rise buildings on the Ningaloo Coast?
-
No. Guided by a visual landscape impact assessment, the buildings will be carefully designed to blend in seamlessly with the unique landscape and character of the Vlamingh Head precinct. We are committed to retaining the semi-remote visitor experience for which Ningaloo is famous. The final design will be included in the Development Application and subject to public consultation.
-
-
Will I still be able to camp at the new Project?
-
Yes. We are planning caravan sites with modern, high-quality facilities for the new Ningaloo Lighthouse Project.
-
-
Where do I stay while the lighthouse is closed for redevelopment?
-
Local experts at the Ningaloo Visitor Centre can advise alternative accommodation in the area while the property is closed. To find out more, visit the website,
www.ningaloocentre.com.au/visitor-centre,
send an email: reservations@exmouthwa.com.au , or call
+61 8 9949 3070
-