MP Gurmesh Singh calls on NSW government to back Coffs Harbour Dolphine Marine Conservation Park

The embattled Dolphin Marine Conservation Park has some friends in high places, but Coffs Harbour council is unlikely to come to the tourist attraction’s aid. Here’s the latest.

Coffs Harbour political leaders, Nationals MP Gurmesh Singh and Mayor Paul Amos hope the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park can find a firm financial footing.

Coffs Harbour MP Gurmesh Singh has sought “urgent advice” from the NSW government on funding opportunities for the beleaguered Dolphin Marine Conservation Park, which has gone into voluntary administration.

Park managing director Terry Goodall said the 53-year-old Coffs tourist attraction was “asset rich, but cash poor” as the business appointed Melbourne liquidators Dyer and Co to head the administration process.

Mr Goodall, whose uncle started the park in 1970, said late last week the Covid pandemic, natural disasters and the cost of living crisis all impacted his operation.

Sharmila Nicollet and Maha Haddioui at the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park.

The announcement that the theme park which also runs a marine life rescue and rehabilitation service is in dire financial straits has rippled politically.

Nationals MP Mr Singh revealed he approached the state Labor government about support for the park as early as last month.

“I have sought meetings with Minister for Jobs and Tourism, John Graham, and Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, to discuss the plight facing Dolphin Marine Conservation Park (DMCP),” he said.

“I’ve asked the Ministers for their urgent advice on any funding and support which may be available to the DMCP, which – as we sadly know – has entered into voluntary administration.

“I made similar representations to both ministers as recently as last month.”

Dolphin Marine Conservation Park operates an extensive animal rehabilitation service.

City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos said it would be a “shame” if the park was forced to close, leading to the loss of more than 40 jobs and the rescue and rehabilitation service which covers the entire North Coast.

However, Mr Amos ruled out local government financial support for the venture.

He said the park operates in a “free market” and any use of ratepayers’ money to prop up the park would set a precedent for other businesses experiencing economic headwinds.

Max and Renee Walker from Wollongong at the theme park.

“It’s not our (council’s) domain at this point in time,” he said.

Mr Amos said he hoped a private benefactor would step forward to help the park and he pointed out a public fundraising campaign was seeking around $1-1.5 million.

“The sort of money they are talking about isn’t that much for these days,” he said.

Mr Singh, the NSW shadow Tourism Minister, said he stood ready to work with the Minns government to “explore all avenues available to ensure this iconic, much-loved and important facility stays open”.

“Closure of the DMCP would have far-reaching consequences not only for the marine life in its care but for the Coffs Coast economy and tourism industry,” he said.

Mr Graham and Ms Moriarty have been approached for comment on the situation.