Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2015L01818:front:0:p102
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2015L01818
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 291880–294890

Defence also relies on access through the park to its facilities, including Bherwerre Ridge Facility.

Defence and park management work cooperatively to ensure that Defence interests and activities do not impact adversely on the park's values. In 2008 Defence and the Director signed a Memorandum of Understanding which documents communication processes to facilitate the requirements of both organisations and establishes a cooperative framework for consultation and reaching agreement on matters of mutual concern.
Routine Defence exercises and training activities are occasionally allowed within the terrestrial component of the park. There are, however, examples of Defence activities which are conducted in a 'civilian context' such as team building, environmental studies and camping which are allowed in the same way as other recreational activities. Other Defence exercises carried out on the periphery of the park have the potential to impact on the park, park visitors and local residents, including the Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community.

The conduct of Defence activities in the park, use and occupation of land and waters in the park for Defence purposes and the application of Defence legislation to activities in the park are subject to the EPBC Act, the EPBC Regulations and this plan.

Most Defence activities are unlikely to need approval provided they are consistent with the requirements of the EPBC Act (for example, do not impact on endangered species) but are subject to consultation with the Park Manager. Table 7 lists examples of Defence activities that are unlikely to need approval and that will need approval. Activities that require approval are assessed in accordance with the guidelines set out in Section 9.8, How proposals will be evaluated.

Parkcare
Parkcare volunteers have provided a range of voluntary work to the park with important environmental outcomes. They provide valuable interaction with park staff and the public and an opportunity for education. Suitable group projects include environmental weed control work that uses ongoing manual input such as removal of weeds by hand; environmental restoration work such as restoring penguin nesting habitat on Bowen Island; and growing native plants in the nursery for rehabilitation projects. Parkcare members have volunteer agreements and are insured as employees whilst working under these agreements.
The park may expand its opportunities for volunteers by exploring programs such as 'Friends of the Gardens'.

Regional neighbours
Cooperative arrangements with regional agencies play an essential role in the day-to-day management and strategic planning for the park. Parks Australia enjoys sound working relationships with the Shoalhaven City Council and relevant NSW management agencies including the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the NSW Fisheries Service, the NSW Marine Parks Authority and the NSW Rural Fire Service and plays an active role in relevant regional committees handling issues as diverse