Shoalhaven residents and visitors to the region can make the most of a new attraction over summer, with the Huskisson Mangrove Boardwalk officially open.
Built in 1988 adjacent to the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum and Gallery, the old timber boardwalk, has been replaced with a 350-metre long accessible walkway complete with seating, viewing platforms and educational signage.
The project was managed by Shoalhaven City Council thanks to a $2.4 million Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund (BLERF) grant from the State and Federal Governments.
The boardwalk was officially opened today (Tuesday December 3, 2024) by Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips, NSW Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty and Shoalhaven City Councillor Matthew Norris.
Mrs Phillips said the new walkway, which meanders over Currambene Creek, was a fantastic facility for locals and visitors to enjoy.
“When BLER funding became available after the Black Summer bushfires, I was really pleased to nominate the Huskisson Mangrove Boardwalk as a priority project,” Mrs Phillips said.
“It’s always been popular with families, school groups and tourists, but with the fantastic wider walkway, seating and footpath from the car park, it’s now accessible for wheelchairs and prams too.
“This recovery project was really important to me because it supports tourism, local businesses and jobs. It also helps promote the Jervis Bay Marine Park and our wonderful natural environment.”
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister said people could enjoy the beautiful mangrove forests and marine life in Currambene Creek.
“We’re working with all levels of government to help communities recover and rebuild,” she said.
Minister Moriarty said the new, wider accessible walkway would ensure a safer experience for visitors of all abilities looking to explore the wonders of the mangroves.
“The NSW Government is backing community projects on the South Coast that will boost preparedness for future disaster, encourage economic development, aid tourism and bring people together,” she added.
State Member for South Coast Liza Butler said it was wonderful to see the boardwalk completed ahead of the busy holiday period.
“This project is an example of how we can balance tourism and community access with environmental reservation,” she said.
“This stunning new boardwalk will bring locals and visitors closer to the breathtaking beauty of Currambene Creek’s mangroves and ecosystem while protecting this fragile environment for generations to come.”
Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White said the upgrade was carried out with sensitivity to ensure minimal disturbance to aquatic life and the mangroves.
The old boardwalk was replaced in sections and the project took around 12 months to compete.
Find out more about the boardwalk HERE.
Photos: The revamped Huskisson Mangrove Boardwalk was opened by Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips, NSW Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty and Shoalhaven City Councillor Matthew Norris on Tuesday.
Media contact: Katrina Condie 0437 662 967
