Shires’ plan to manage weeds

The Shire of Broome has officially adopted its weed management strategy and action plan for 2026-29.

This plan highlights the shire’s focus on preserving the local environment, biodiversity and community spaces.

Shire president Chris Mitchell thanked the community for their extensive input, noting that the collaborative approach — involving residents and environmental groups — ensured the plan reflected both scientific knowledge and local experience.

“Community involvement was vital to shaping this plan,” he said.

“By listening to local residents and stakeholder groups, we can focus our efforts where they are most needed and work together to protect Broome’s unique environment.

“This plan is a great example of what can be achieved when the community and the shire work hand in hand — from protecting our natural areas to empowering residents to take action in their own neighbourhoods.”

The plan identifies the shire’s most pressing weed management issues in four priority areas.

First, it aims to protect Minyirr Park by addressing weeds entering the reserve via drainage systems.

Secondly, it will work to protect native vegetation by targeting and controlling invasive weed species.

Thirdly, it calls for continued re-treatment efforts in high-priority areas that have been heavily impacted by weeds.

And finally, it encourages community-led incentives, coordinating local participation to build a collaborative approach to managing weeds.

The overall vision of the strategy is to provide a clear, long-term framework for managing weeds, by focusing on strategic, evidence-based actions to deliver tangible outcomes that protect Broome’s unique environment for future generations.