The public exhibition of a draft management plan for Munibung Hill is a fantastic next step in what is expected to be a significant improvement for community access to the much-loved bushland area, according to Stuart Carter.
Lake Macquarie City Council recently identified the location as an iconic place in the LGA – and is now seeking feedback from residents on its proposal until 20 December.
And, that’s gained support from the Munibung Hill Conservation Society (MHCS) president.
“We are living at a time when, thankfully, we view landscapes like Munibung Hill as more than just sites for mining and exploitation,” Mr Carter said.
“It is home to a vast array of native plant and animal species.
“Their conservation is a high-priority for the MHCS, who prepared a Fivefold Vision statement setting out the geological, ecological and cultural heritage values along with recreational, educational and visitor economy principles that could be realised with the appropriate installation of facilities within the Munibung Hill precinct.
“The geological and indigenous cultural aspects need special recognition with storyboards relating to the 251 million years (of age) and 65,000 years of Aboriginal custodianship.
“While we acknowledge that some people would like to keep Munibung Hill a secret for their private, personal recreational purposes, the conservation values will be better served by attracting a new generation of custodians.
“They’ll, hopefully, value Munibung Hill for her role as part of urban forestry, a bird and wildlife sanctuary, a pollinator corridor, an Aboriginal place (an application with the NSW Heritage Office has been lodged), a health and fitness park, and a pedestrian-friendly place to take family and friends.”
For regular visitors, or even those of more recent times due to the COVID-19 situation, the stemming of erosion and the upgrading of walking tracks are considered high priorities.
“The basic facilities proposed for two trailhead sites is welcome news,” Mr Carter said.
“With one suggested for the south-west and another for the north-east, these will make for a much-improved visitor experience.
“Guests to Lake Macquarie will undoubtedly appreciate the track upgrades.
“Providing easy access to the main north-south ridgeline will be welcomed by walkers who currently have to negotiate steep, badly eroded slopes that put a lot of people off.
“With panoramic views from the vantage points, the city will get free promotional photographs of Lake Macquarie sent out on social media, too.”
To have your say on the draft management and concept plans, visit www.shape.lakemcac.com.au/munibunghill
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