Bourke Shire Councillors say they fully support the Member for Barwon Roy Butler’s new survey over his concern about the expansion of National Parks in Western NSW.

The Barwon MP wants to know what local people think and what should change about the expansion and management of National Parks.

Mr Butler has released a survey on his website to reveal the range of views among people living in communities alongside western National Parks.

At its meeting Monday September 22 Bourke Mayor Lachlan Ford and his councillors continued discussion over community concern voting to show their concerns to NSW and Federal Governments.

Councillor Ford said organisations such as NSW Farmers and the Western Alliance of Councils are backing Bourke’s push.

"Country mayors are starting to see the problems with the expansion of these parks and I am talking with Country Mayors Association president Rick Firman," he said.

"We are not anti NSW National Parks but about the management of them going forward.’’

Councillor Sally Davis said some affected farmers have talked with the ABC’s Landline program.

“They are hoping this gets out to more of the people in the state and nation," she told fellow councillors.

Cr Ford said councillors and community need to support this survey by the Barwon MP.

‘’Let's get this happening and back the survey.’’

Who provides and pays for surrounding infrastructure is just one of the issues under contention. [IMAGE: BSC]

Mr Butler said local views will form the basis of the change he can advocate for.

“I am concerned that land is being bought in western NSW for new National Parks without the appropriate studies to determine what is being protected or what the impact will be on the community,” said Mr Butler.

“I’ve also seen that the promised tourism revenue and jobs when National Parks are created quickly evaporate.

"When no tourism infrastructure is built, few tourists visit.

“So, I want to know if locals have seen environmental or economic benefits from western National Parks?” Roy asked.

He said neighbouring landholders are concerned about the way western National Parks are managed.

“Western National Parks can function as breeding grounds for pest animals and vegetation as they don’t make adequate control efforts – and some don’t maintain fences either,” said Mr Butler.

“Concerns have also been raised about the hollowing out of local communities due to the loss of a working property and the loss of rates paid to Councils.

“What do people think should change about the management of western National Parks?

“Before I start advocating for changes, I want to make sure I’ve consulted those who know the issues best – local people.”

The survey can be accessed here.