Council mayors in Bourke and Cobar have rallied against NSW Government changes to National Parks land purchases writing to NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe with the backing of State MP Roy Butler and Pastoralists in the state's far west.

Now, results of a survey organised by the Member for Barwon and released yesterday (Monday November 10) shows "there is overwhelming discontent among respondents."

More than 242 locals shared the reasons why they are unhappy with National Parks while also identifying possible solutions for the future.

Mr Butler released the survey following several large purchases of former pastoral stations by the National Parks estates near Bourke, Cobar and Brewarrina.

“My survey was designed to clarify the most important issues according to those who are best placed to understand what’s working and what isn’t – local people,” said Mr Butler.

The survey returned results that closely align with the viewpoints of local pastoralists, according to Sam Beven, President of the Pastoralists’ Association of West Darling.

Beven recently took over from fellow proponent and pastoralist Terry Smith and is also upset with state government.

“Purchasing land at inflated prices to protect landscapes that have happily coexisted with pastoralism since the 1860s and not following through with investment in pest control and tourist infrastructure is unacceptable," Mr Beven said.

"This approach should be reconsidered by the government."

Thurloo Downs at 437,394 hectares was the largest ever National Parks purchase in 2023. [IMAGE: NSW National Parks]

Fellow pastoralist Mr Smith believes new NSW parks won't achieve anything for tourism or for the environment .

"I live alongside one of these and the area is tough country, so camping and tourism and even employment prospects for people doesn't look bright.

"We believe it's an overpriced waste of money," he said.

95% of respondents were not happy with how National Parks are managed in western NSW, with just one in five seeing economic benefits and slightly more seeing environmental benefits.

Respondents said their biggest concerns about turning pastoral stations into National Parks are:

1) Losing a pastoral business that helps the local economy

 2) High purchase prices stopping new farmers entering the industry

 3) Feral animals getting out of control

Respondents were less concerned about poor fencing or the loss of access to roads or fire trails.

A majority support allowing conservation hunting in western National Parks to control feral animals, with just one in four supporting better fencing.

When asked what would make them more supportive of western area National Parks, more than 4 in 10 said stopping purchases above market value, with another 22% supporting clearer reasons and rules for converting pastoral stations to parks.

“I thank respondents for taking the time to complete the survey, and I will use these results to guide my efforts at improving the way National Parks operate in western NSW,” said Mr Butler.

Despite repeated calls to the NSW Minister for Environment Penny Sharpe there have been no changes to NSW Policy on the issue.