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Partnership Agreement | |
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This agreement formalises an arrangement between National Parks and Wildlife South Australia (NPWSA)and Four Wheel Drive South Australia (FWDSA).
The Partners agree to work cooperatively and constructively towards the preservation of the natural and cultural values represented in the States Protected Areas through the development, implementation,promotion and review of operational policy and procedures and minimum impact practices for the use of these areas by recreational vehicles.
This partnership is a formal arrangement that offers benefits to both parties beyond what can normally be achieved through consultation and liaison:
The conservation of Protected Areas for the benefit of current and future generations.
Assistance from a key stakeholder group in the development of operational policy, implementation of that policy through promotion and support from members and ongoing monitoring,evaluation and review of working arrangements relating to recreational vehicle use.
Improved management and maintenance of Protected Areas through support from and involvement of the Association and affiliate clubs utilising volunteer work programs and adoption schemes.
Access to the manager of the State’s biological and recreational resources and an opportunity to contribute to the management of Protected Areas by sharing knowledge and experience in recreational vehicle use.
Active involvement of members in the management and maintenance of Protected Areas through volunteer work programs and direct contact with Protected Area managers. The conservation of Protected Areas for the benefit of current and future generations and the preservation and development of improved recreational opportunities through the support of policy and minimum impact practices.
NPWSA ultimately has a legislative obligation for decision making but the partnership presents an opportunity for the FWDSA,and therefore its members,to be actively involved in identifying issues, reviewing operational policy and procedures and on ground management of protected areas on an on-going basis.
It is not intended to interfere with or over-ride the day to day management responsibilities of NPWSA or the need for them to consult with other special interest and user groups,but to consider issues of State-wide significance. Protected Area managers or users may refer matters to the partnership committee for advice.
The Partners will each nominate three representatives to establish a Recreational Vehicle Advisory Committee (RVAC).
NPWSA will be represented by three members nominated by the Director National Parks and Wildlife SA.
FWDSA will be represented by three members nominated by the Association. Representatives of other DEH Divisions, other Government agencies and special interest and user groups may be invited to meetings to assist in deliberations on a needs basis.Representation from these groups on the committee will not be excluded.
The RVAC will meet on an annual basis at an agreed venue,but may hold special meetings to address specific and urgent needs.
The RVAC will alternate the position of Chairperson for meetings between a NPWSA representative and FWDSA representative.The Committee will nominate a member to record minutes.
Costs relating to the operation of the RVAC and delegate participation will be met by each party unless otherwise negotiated.
Advice on operational policy and procedures and management will be provided to the Director, NPWSA for referral to the Operational Managers forum.
Meeting procedures and protocols will be decided by the RVAC.
Distribute and promote the Recreational Vehicles and Protected Areas in South Australia (RVPA) handbook.
Monitor the implementation of the RVPA handbook and review as necessary.
Apply a pro-active approach to the identification of significant issues relating to the sustainable use of recreational vehicles in Protected Areas and provide advice on the resolution of issues.
Monitor the participation of the FWDSA and member clubs in the management planning process for Protected Areas and contribute when necessary.
Develop and maintain a State-wide inventory of recreational vehicle access in Protected Areas in South Australia.
Identify opportunities to improve recreational vehicle touring experiences in Protected Areas including the cost and feasibility of doing this.
Identify information and education needs to improve recreational vehicle experiences and user responsibility and sources of funding for implementation of priorities.
As members, identify opportunities to promote Tread Lightly! Australia and its message of responsible use of Protected Areas and private land. Support Tread Lightly! in its efforts to achieve environmentally responsible advertising of recreational vehicles.
Assist NPWSA in the development of safe driving guidelines for specified areas for inclusion on signage or printed material.
Liaise with NPWSA, Community Liaison Unit in identifying opportunities for FWDSA members involvement in volunteer projects in Protected Areas.
Review and refine the role of the RVAC and report to the Director, NPWSA and President, FWDSA on achievements, on an annual basis.
This is not a legally binding agreement but National Parks and Wildlife South Australia and the South Australian Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs make a commitment with the best of intentions to establish and maintain this relationship in the interests of conservation and recreational use of Protected Areas in South Australia.
The agreement can be revoked by either organisation.
Natural Resources Advisory Unit
South Australian Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs
PO Box 178, ENFIELD PLAZA, South Australia 5058.
Chairman: DON RANSOM
Phone: (08) 8431 2443
Fax: (08) 8431 3752
Email: donransom@senet.com.au