Major works update: Sublime Point Walking Track upgrade
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) was successful in securing funding through the NSW and Australian Governments’ program, Infrastructure Betterment, to upgrade the Sublime Point Walking Track. While this project is not part of the Great Southern Walk, it will deliver an enhanced visitor experience, connecting the Great Southern Walk with Austimer through the replacement of timber steps with sandstone steps and the widening of the track in several sections. A key project outcome will be a significant increase in the track’s resilience against future weather events and closures. This project is expected to take approximately 12 months, with completion scheduled in August 2026.
The works commenced in August 2025 and the track will remain closed to visitors during this stage. The key logistical challenge of delivering the stone pieces to the track is being undertaken by helicopter. The first heli-transport operation was successfully conducted on 5 September, with a second operation on 28 October. The installation of the 1,000 mm wide stone steps in the first 5 sections of the track is progressing well.
Visitor facilities update
Planning and detailed design for new campgrounds at Wattamolla, Garie and Garawarra Farm in Royal National Park and Maddens Plains in the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area is continuing with consideration of visitor needs and site constraints. Additional camping facilities will also be installed at Bonnie Vale, a long-established campground in Royal National Park.
Further updates will be provided as this work develops.
Progress update: Kamay Botany Bay National Park
- Construction of the new visitor centre at Kurnell is progressing well and is scheduled for completion in 2026.
- Works at Commemoration Flat to upgrade the existing car parking, barbecues and picnic shelters are expected to be complete in December 2025.
Progress update: Royal National Park
- The track between Garie Beach and Little Garie has been realigned behind the cliff due to instability of the cliff face. This new section is now open and there is no access along the front of the cliff.
- Garie Road and Garie Visitor Precinct are also now open to visitors.
- All scheduled upgrade works to the Royal Coast Track have now been completed and the entire walk from Bundeena to Otford can be completed by walkers. Please check current alerts when planning your visit.
-
Upgraded section of the coast track at South Era -
Sections of the realigned track above Garie Beach
Progress update: Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area
- Woodward Loop (western section) and Lookout Track works are now complete and these tracks were reopened to the public in September 2025.
- The new link between Panorama House to Southern Gateway track is awaiting planning approval.
- Planning and design for the proposed campground at Maddens Plains is well progressed.
