Major upgrade for Somersby Falls picnic area

9 June 2023

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has commenced works to upgrade the well-loved Somersby Falls picnic area in Brisbane Water National Park, just outside Gosford.

Somersby Falls, Brisbane Water National Park

This transformative project aims to cater to the growing number of families visiting the area and simultaneously protect the important cultural heritage associated with Somersby Falls.

NPWS Hunter Central Coast Director Kylie Yeend said Somersby Falls picnic area has long been a treasured picnic spot for families, offering a stunning natural setting, cascading waterfalls and diverse wildlife.

“Somersby Falls, on Darkinjung Country, is one of the most spectacular and popular rest stops on the NSW Central Coast,” said Ms Yeend.

“The site is attracting more visitors than ever before, and the current facilities need upgrading to sustainably manage increasing visitation and cater for future population growth.

“We’re committed to investing in visitor infrastructure in our state's national parks, ensuring that these cherished areas continue to provide exceptional recreational opportunities for all.

“The planned upgrade will include an upgraded visitor carpark with 58 carparks, including 4 new accessible parking spots and a new bus drop-off and turning bay.

“A new accessible pathway from the carpark to the picnic area will be constructed and repairs will also be made to the elevated steps and boardwalk to the lower falls that were impacted by recent storm and flood events.

The latest NPWS research shows that visitors to Central Coast national parks contribute more than $1 billion to the regional economy and help generate more than 2,520 jobs for the region each year.

Construction works are set to commence on Tuesday 13 June 2023 and the Somersby Falls picnic area will be closed while works take place. Visitors can check the NPWS Alerts webpage for the latest updates on closures.

The project is expected to be complete by December 2023, weather permitting.

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