The construction works at the Somersby Falls picnic area has progressed since our last update in September 2023. Included here is exciting news about the picnic area upgrade.
Stage 5: Construction
The first phase of construction is well underway and on track to be completed by the end of the year.
Additional funding has been secured to enable an upgrade to the picnic area in the second phase of works. This will have a new expected completion date of June 2024.
During this time there is no access to the whole Somersby Falls precinct including:
- amenities
- picnic area
- Somersby Falls
- walking tracks.
Phase 1 focused on the construction of the bus drop-off point and new car park. This will provide improved visitor parking, including dedicated disabled spaces and better access to the precinct.
Phase 2 will focus on building new amenities, installing an onsite sewerage system and improving visitor facilities and accessibility.
What is included in the scope for phase 2 works?
Funding has been secured in November 2023 to complete phase 2 works to upgrade the Somersby Falls picnic area.
New amenities with site-specific, sustainable design will include:
- 8-stall amenities with additional unisex accessible toilet cubicle
- solar-powered water filtration system
- increased capacity underground wastewater tanks.
The precinct upgrade will also include an increase in landscaped open spaces and barbecue facilities. A renewed viewing area at Top Falls will enhance accessibility, improve visitor safety and protect the unique cultural heritage linked to Somersby Falls.
The elevated steps and boardwalks damaged by floods will also be repaired.
How will park values be protected and enhanced in the final design?
The environmental impact assessment has outlined how the works must occur and be monitored during the construction phase. A review of environmental factors (REF) will be completed before any major changes to the footprint of the original stairs and platform at the falls.
Visitors
The final design now includes:
- 54 parking spaces and 4 designated accessible parking spaces
- improved universal access linking new car park with existing picnic area
- upgraded pathways in picnic area
- a bus turning circle and drop-off point
- walking track links to picnic area
- improved fire trail access
- upgraded 8-stall amenities with a unisex accessible cubicle, all sustainably designed and powered from a PV solar array
- provision of potable drinking water onsite
- renewed viewing platform at Top Falls
- site security upgrades
- new seating and landscaping features.
Heritage
The project design ensures protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage sites in the area. NSW National Parks and Wildlife have received the required approvals to undertake works within this important cultural heritage area.
Plants
The final design includes regeneration of disturbed landscape areas. The regeneration plan guides the management of any trees that need to be planted or removed. Planting will be undertaken towards the end of the project by both NSW National Parks and Wildlife staff and volunteers.
Where can I find up-to-date information about site closure changes?
We will update the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service parks alerts and closures webpage to notify any changes to public access to this visitor precinct in Brisbane Water National Park.
The next published update will be in March 2024 and include details of the expected completion of construction.
What are nearby alternatives?
Girrakool Picnic Area, also in Brisbane Water National Park, is less than 5 minutes' drive from Somersby Falls. It is well-equipped with picnic tables, barbeques, amenities, scenic waterfalls and walking tracks.
