The region’s economy is set to be “boosted” following a funding allocation to upgrade a 39-kilometre stretch of coastal walking tracks, linking Batemans Bay to Bawley Point.
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Funded by the NSW Government, the $3.64 million project will link the towns of Bawley Point, Kioloa, Pebbly Beach, Durras and Batemans Bay.
The funding is part of a $50 million spend on upgrading national park walking tracks in Sydney, Port Stephens, Tweed-Byron, on the Macleay Valley Coast and the South Coast.
Bega MP Andrew Constance and Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock said the funding would create a “world class” walking experience.
The new walk, to be named the Murramurang South Coast Walk, will link existing walking trails along the region’s coastline.
“The funding will provide a substantial upgrade to a number of existing unconnected trails supporting both multi day and single day walks,” Mrs Hancock said.
“You’ll be able to grab a day pack and walk between localities or undertake the full walk with a variety of accommodation options along the way.”
Ms Hancock said the funding package would boost the tourism industry. She said it would be “like rocket fuel” for the region’s economy.
“Bush walking is now a very popular activity across all generations and I have no doubt that more tourists will come to Murramarang National Park because of the Government’s investment into new tracks, boardwalks and lookouts,” Ms Hancock said.
Mr Constance said he was looking forward to completing the walk himself once it was completed.
He said that a key part of the State Government’s commitment to conservation includes increasing opportunities for the community to access and appreciate the natural environment and a project like this will achieve that in spades.
“In the words of David Attenborough – no one will protect what they don’t care about and no one will care about what they’ve never experienced,” Mr Constance said.
Funding for the track upgrades will be made available under the NSW Regional Growth Environment and Tourism Fund.
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the funding was part of a $630 million investment in the state’s national parks estate.
"This funding will ensure our national parks continue to grow and are accessible to everyone. It will protect threatened species and preserve habitats for our wildlife,” Ms Berejiklian said.