There was no one prouder than Kate Murray when the latest additions to the shared pathways around Seaham were officially unveiled.
In fact, for the humble local, who received a Port Stephens Council Vibrant Spaces grant, the project doubled as a labour of love.
Not only did she illustrate the map and key diagrams on new information signs, which were installed at the Seaham Bird Hut, Ms Murray continued the work of her late father Brian Gilligan.
More than five decades ago, he campaigned to have the Seaham Swamp gazetted to its Nature Reserve status.
The latest signage, highlighting points of interest within the township while enhancing engagement with the environment, was made possible thanks to council in partnership with National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
“Dad, a resident of Seaham for over 47 years, was passionate about environment protection, land management and conservation,” Ms Murray said.
“He always hoped to establish pathways to provide links between the Nature Reserve and Seaham Park for the community to enjoy.
“I wanted to carry on his legacy by creating beautiful, informative signs to connect the key historic sites of the town, sharing the hidden past of the Seaham area in a fun and engaging way.
“Thanks to council’s Vibrant Spaces grant, I’ve been able to bring dad’s dream to life – encouraging people to appreciate the uniqueness of the region.”
The colourfully-illustrated signs were installed at the bird hut overlooking the Seaham Swamp, as well as various other places of significance around Seaham.
“I hope the creation of this informative journey through Seaham encourages people to visit and discover its rich history,” Ms Murray said.
Council’s strategy and environment section manager Brock Lamont said the Hinterland Place Plan, which was endorsed by the organisation in November, empowered the community to implement change and action, as evidenced in the Seaham Shared Pathways Project.
“This venture celebrates local history, provides interpretive information for visitors and has created spaces to connect, rest and relax,” he explained.
“It’s a great example of the community working in partnership with council to improve liveability and wellbeing.
“We’re looking forward to working closely with residents and business in the hinterland to help establish a new Town Team for the area.
“We’ve already seen some really positive outcomes from the collaborations encouraged by the Town Team model in both Karuah and Medowie over the past year.
“So, we’re keen to collaborate with local schools, residents and business to make sure we achieve the same outcomes for the hinterland.”
Learn more about the Seaham Shared Pathways at seahamsharedpathways.com.au
To read the Hinterland Place Plan or find out how to get involved in the Hinterland Town Team, visit pscouncil.info/hinterland-place-plan
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