The NSW Government has announced a $3.64 million upgrade to the spectacular Murramarang South Coast Walk.
The 39 kilometre four day walk links the five major localities of Batemans Bay, Durras, Pebbly Beach, Kioloa and Bawley Point.
Member for Bega, Andrew Constance and Member for South Coast, Shelley Hancock, both said they welcomed the NSW Government’s decision to fund the construction of new tracks linking a network of existing trails, creating a world-class walking experience in their electorates.
Mr Constance 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.
“The total length of the walk from Batemans Bay to Bawley Point will be around 39 kms along some of the most spectacularly beautiful coastline that this country has to offer.
“I’m very much looking forward to doing this walk myself when the work has been completed,” Mr Constance, said.
Ms Hancock said the funding package would inject real life into the local tourism industry.
“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.
“There’s no doubt that this will result in a boost to the local economy.
“In fact I’d go so far as to say that an investment like this will be like rocket fuel for the local tourism economy.
“The funding will provide a substantial upgrade to a number of existing unconnected trails supporting both multi day and single day walks.
“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
“This is just fantastic news for the South Coast,” Ms Hancock said.
Funding for the track upgrades will be made available under the NSW Regional Growth Environment and Tourism Fund.
Further reading about this section of the coast:
A 3-month journey of self discovery made between February and May 2004; time to walk, time to stay, time to contemplate. This diary describes a 630 km walk down the south coast of New South Wales from Sydney to Mallacoota. In our view it is one of the most diverse and picturesque stretches of coastline in the world.
