National Parks and Wildlife Service Annual Report 1969

Abstract

This inaugural annual report covers the first 21 months of operations (October 1967 - June 1969) of the newly established National Parks and Wildlife Service of New South Wales. The report documents the formation of the Service through the amalgamation of the former Fauna Protection Panel and the Parks and Reserves Branch of the Department of Lands. During this period, the Service expanded its protected areas from 2.13 million acres to 2.37 million acres, comprising 12 National Parks, 7 State Parks, 6 Historic Sites, and 60 Nature Reserves. Notable achievements include the acquisition of 398,550 acres of new land, the development of management planning procedures, implementation of wildlife conservation programs, and establishment of key advisory bodies. The report details expenditure of $637,623 on land acquisition and outlines major development works across various parks and reserves. Critical challenges addressed include upgrading aging facilities, implementing fire protection measures, and developing interpretation services. The document provides comprehensive information on organizational structure, staffing (270 personnel), financial management, and conservation initiatives, establishing baseline data for the newly formed Service's operations.