Leslie Williams, Member for Port Macquarie, said $2.1 million from the NSW Government’s Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund and a financial contribution from the Forestry Corporation of New South Wales will boost tourism in the local region.

Mrs Williams said the project will deliver the infrastructure needed to create the nature-based tourism precinct, including sealed road access, water and electricity connections, car parking and perimeter fencing.

“Local tourism operators are excited about the prospect of a tourism precinct located in the Cowarra State Forest with the vital infrastructure connections that this funding will provide.

“Providing access to the precinct will open up opportunities for new nature-based tourism attractions, such as tree-top adventure climbs, trail running, mountain bike riding, adventurethons and pop up cafes,” Mrs Williams said.

“Forestry also hopes to work with Traditional Owners the Bunyah community, and with their permission, share their cultural practices and stories. The potential for local Aboriginal Cultural Heritage to be acknowledged and honoured within the precinct is exciting.”

Plans for the site include forest & wildlife recovery education & information signage and use of sustainably sourced timber in infrastructure works.

“Sustainable forest management is more important than ever as we rebuild fire-affected towns with sustainably-managed timber for bridges, electricity poles and homes. This new precinct is no different and include local hardwood timber features throughout.

“In terms of wildlife recovery, discussions with Port Macquarie Koala Hospital have already been held with koala rehabilitation on site in mind.

“This is exactly the kind of project the Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund is designed to deliver and I look forward to seeing what new attractions and offerings become available in the new tourism precinct,” Mrs Williams said.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the new 700 metre perimeter fence will include a natural feature wall design along the Oxley Highway side while new signage will showcase local history and celebrate the timber heritage of the region.

“These upgrades will allow more people to safely and sustainably enjoy what nature has to offer while also encouraging more overnight stays and return visits, which supports local jobs and businesses that rely on tourism.

“As well as opening up new opportunities, the precinct will become a nature-based rest stop for travellers on the Legendary Pacific Coast Drive and help showcase the world leading forest management techniques being used in the Cowarra State Forest,” Mr Barilaro said. 

Forestry Corporation plans to model their approach to developing nature-based tourism in Cowarra State Forest to that achieved at their tourism award-winning Sealy Lookout (Niigi Niigi) in Orara East State Forest on the North Coast.