Murramarang South Coast Walk

Planning for the Murramarang South Coast Walk has commenced and we are currently working through the design and approvals processes. The recent fire has changed the planning work and delivery timeframe for the walk. Provided necessary approvals are granted, some construction is expected to begin in 2020. Construction will be undertaken in a staged approach and is expected to be completed by June 2022.

This walk is expected to deliver benefits to the local economy, drawing visitors to the region in off-peak and shoulder periods. The walk will provide new opportunities for tour operators, local specialty provedores, and transport, accommodation and hospitality services. The project aims to be a key attraction in the region's tourism industry while encouraging people to protect and love their national parks.

Our national parks are managed to protect their unique values and provide for sustainable visitor use and enjoyment. This includes providing visitor experiences and, where appropriate, new visitor facilities including walking tracks.

We will conduct independent environmental assessments to examine the significance of any likely environmental impacts of the proposal and consider measures required to mitigate any impacts to the environment. This highlights the need to ensure public visitation and enjoyment is compatible with the protection of conservation values.

The proposed project will undergo further detailed design and assessment to ensure compliance with the park's plan of management. Stringent environmental, cultural heritage and cost-benefit assessments, involving our staff, key stakeholders and other experts, will ensure the project meets environmental, cultural and economic aspirations.

The Currowan Fire, which was started by lightning in Currowan State Forest on 26 November 2019, entered into the park in early December 2019. The fire burnt about 80% of the park with varying intensity. The southern section of the park between South Durras and Maloneys Beach was not affected by fire.

While our focus is on recovery, the planning for the Murramarang South Coast Walk is continuing. We are undertaking this planning while concurrently working towards reopening all the park's walking tracks as early as possible. We are also working with local government and tourism organisations to support the recovery of the region's visitor economy.

The Murramarang South Coast Walk will offer visitors an opportunity to experience a diverse range of landscapes while connecting with the dramatic coastline as they make their way along the track. The walk will provide new opportunities to engage with the park's cultural and environmental values, diverse ecology and landscapes, rich cultural heritage and abundant wildlife.

Interpretation through innovative storytelling is one of the most effective ways to enhance a multi-day walk and deliver an 'experience of a lifetime' for walkers. Developing rich and engaging signage will be a key focus to immerse the walker in the natural and cultural landscape.

Public consultation for the draft master plan and draft review of environmental factors for the Murramarang South Coast Walk was from 20 July 2020 until 23 August 2020. After the end of the public consultation period, the Department reviews all submissions and prepares a submissions report that will be made available to the public.

Those interested in the project are invited to register their interest and receive updates on the project.