Visitors will notice a raft of changes throughout the Barrington Tops National Park and corresponding State Conservation Area.
The $1.78 million enhancements, including campground upgrades, track improvements and bridge reconstructions, is expected to provide people exploring the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests with improved access and facilities.
The works are the latest in a series of developments by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) within the region, including recent projects to the Rocky Crossing and Jerusalem Creek walks, Careys Peak Lookout and the Blue Gum Loop.
“The Barrington Tops is a bushwalker’s paradise, with an excellent walking track network that includes short and easy walks to more difficult overnight hikes,” Labor spokesperson for the Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal MLC said.
“These upgrades make it easier for a broader range of visitors to answer the ‘call of the wild’ and spend a night in the rugged wilderness of the Barrington Tops.
“Investing in the wilderness area is an investment in our community’s future.
“By enhancing campgrounds, walking tracks and road access, we not only create a space for nature enthusiasts to experience this unique area, but also boost local tourism and the economy.”
Two special sites, which were upgraded, included Polblue in the Barrington Tops National Park and Gummi Falls in the Barrington Tops State Conservation Area.
Set up high in the sub-alpine woodland, the former campground is popular for families.
NPWS installed new fireplaces, improved the amenities block, road and pedestrian access, as well as a number of individual campsites.
Polblue Swamp track, an easy walk that winds through the unique, high-altitude wetlands of the national park, has also been enhanced as part of the project.
Meanwhile, the remote Gummi Falls campground is much-loved among fishers and those who want to explore high country trails on the back of a mountain bike.
It now boasts two new amenity blocks, improved road and pedestrian access, and the campsites have been upgraded and expanded.
NPWS also installed three prefabricated concrete and steel bridges along Turbrabucca Road, as the original timber bridges had reached the end of their lifespan.
For more community stories:
- Soul Hub benefits to tune of $500,000
- Chalk the Walk 3D street art exhibit earns extension
- WWYW hosting ground-breaking fashion show in Newy
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
