Published: 29 September 2021
Former Department of Parks and Wildlife Director General Jim Sharp has been appointed Chair of the new Ningaloo Eclipse Senior Officer working group.
Tourism WA has created the working group, and a project team, dedicated to delivering a safe and secure event for the 2023 Total Solar Eclipse in Exmouth.
Exmouth, and the broader North West Cape area, will be one of the only in places in the world where people will be able to see the rare natural phenomenon in its entirety.
Mr Sharp will lead the eclipse working group, which brings together representatives from 13 State Government departments. He will also provide support to the project team.
Mr Sharp has more than 35 years of experience in parks and wildlife in Western Australia, including three years as the Director General at the Department of Parks and Wildlife, and a further 12 years as the National Parks Director.
The project team is continuing to liaise with key stakeholders across local government and industry, including the Shire of Exmouth and the Gascoyne Development Commission.
This amazing astronomical event is expected to attract more than 10,000 visitors to the area on April 20, 2023 and inject more than $27 million into the WA economy.
Tourism WA Acting Managing Director Derryn Belford said Mr Sharp would bring a wealth of experience to the role.
“Jim brings a great deal of experience in overseeing major infrastructure initiatives, and managing and facilitating natural tourism in WA,” she said.
“He will oversee the delivery of a safe and secure Ningaloo Eclipse event for the town, tourism operators, visitors, and all involved.
“The Total Solar Eclipse is attracting interest from around the world. It’s a great opportunity for the region and will highlight the amazing astrotourism and stargazing experiences in Exmouth and the wider Coral Coast region.”