The $6.7 million project funded by the NSW Government will enhance tourist opportunities in the Port Stephens region beyond the traditional summer season and encourage visitors to experience new sections of Tomaree National Park.
Tomaree Head already attracts over 300,000 visitors per year and this upgrade will significantly improve the visitor experience, allowing more people to enjoy this spectacular area comfortably and safely.
The Tomaree Coastal Walk will offer these outdoor adventurers a multi-day experience, turning day-trips into overnight stays, and providing a boost to local tourism and hospitality businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation providers.
The Tomaree Coastal Walk is the latest in a network of national park upgrades being established in NSW national parks, as part of a plan to transform the state into a bushwalking attraction for domestic and international visitors.
The central focus of the Tomaree Coastal Walk project is to create a continuous track linking Tomaree Head to Birubi Point.
The walk has been carefully designed and constructed so a wider range of people can access and enjoy the beauty of the Port Stephens coast. The upgrades allow wheelchair and mobility restriction.
Starting at Tomaree Head, with unparalleled views of idyllic Port Stephens and its coastline, the multi-day walk hugs the coastline of the national park, guiding visitors across rock ledges, along secluded beaches and through angophora forests via boardwalks and easy-to-navigate walking tracks.
Visitors can do self-guided walks of the entire route or tackle shorter sections of track in any direction, supported by expanded parking along the length of the walk.
The Tomaree Coastal Walk traverses the traditional lands of the Worimi people, an ancient volcanic landscape that has unique cultural, natural and historic values.
New lookouts offer panoramic views of the ocean, as well as providing ideal spots for whale watching during the annual migration of Humpback whales along Australia’s east coast.
Upgraded visitor precincts include improved parking, seating, stairs and walkways, as well as signage and artwork celebrating the cultural heritage of Worimi Country.
Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:
“This new Coastal Walk add to the NSW Government’s deep commitment to showcasing our state’s spectacular natural beauty and boost tourism in our regional communities.
“This enhancement of Tomaree National Park adds another breathtaking experience befitting this region’s fantastic landscape and our state’s environmental character.
“The Coastal Walk will entice local and tourists to come and enjoy the natural surrounds while taking the opportunity to stay overnight at local accommodation, dine in local restaurants and stop by local cafes. It’s a win-win for visitors and local businesses.
“We’re excited to see this project boost the region’s tourism economy and for visitors to enjoy this new iconic coastal experience.”
Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said:
“The new Tomaree Coastal Walk will provide a first-class nature-based tourism attraction for Port Stephens, promote the natural and Aboriginal cultural heritage of Tomaree National Park, and build a valued legacy for future generations.
“This area is steeped in history, with ancient volcanic peaks, deep and on-going connection with Worimi People, rich World War 2 heritage, whales, wildflowers, and wildlife just waiting to be discovered.
“Offering a series of short, half- or multi-day walk options, walkers can choose their own adventure, with a range of accommodation options available in nearby coastal villages.
“As we enter spring, now it’s the perfect time to lace up your walking shoes and hit the trails of the Tomaree Coastal Walk.”
Minister for Families and Communities and Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:
“Tomaree National Park is one of the most special places in Port Stephens, and on the planet!
“From the iconic headland to the sensational sand dunes which are part of the culturally significant Worimi Conservation Lands, the Tomaree Coastal Walk transports you somewhere stunning at every turn.
“Locals and visitors alike, will absolutely fall in love with our amazing new Tomaree Coastal Walk.”
