Tourism Planning, People and the Environment in Western Australia

Abstract

A survey of 109 residents and 218 tourists of Shark Bay, Western Australia, was conducted in 1990-91 to determine their attitudes to tourism and the environment. The results indicate that while general support exists for a symbiotic relationship between the two, the residents place more emphasis on tourism development while the tourists give greater weight to environmental protection. Both groups indicate a preference for small-scale developments and believe that tourism should be integrated with the overall conservation and land management of the region. A number of recreational and touristic activities which are perceived to be environmentally harmful are noted, as well as others which are viewed as being environmentally compatible and therefore acceptable. The findings have direct management applications as the region is undergoing a tourism boom and has also just been proclaimed the first World Heritage Area in the state.