Plans to strengthen the Tomaree headland as a tourist hub featuring bush walks, a museum, historic site and an educational and heritage centre have been unveiled by the newly-badged Tomaree Headland Heritage Group (THHG).
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Formerly known as the Friends of Tomaree Headland, the THHG said it would work with other stakeholders and interest groups - including the eight community groups who made up 'Friends' - in steering the project once Tomaree Lodge has been vacated as a residential facility.
THHG convenor Peter Clough said the group would also be working collaboratively with the newly formed Tomaree Museum Association (TMA).
TMA chairman Ian Farnsworth said they were keen to get on board and to help promote the message that Tomaree headland needed to stay in public hands and a shared vision (a plan) for its future protection and development.
"TMA aims to progressively document, protect and promote the history and sustainability of the headland, and will work with the newly names heritage group to protect the Tomaree Lodge heritage buildings."
Mr Clough said that, like TMA, a priority for THHG was to ensure the 37.5 hectare site on the pristine Shoal Bay headland would, once it became vacant, remain in public ownership with appropriate public access.
"We have an eight-point objectives list and the first is to protect and interpret the outstanding natural and heritage site, including indigenous culture and the assets of Tomaree headland," he said.
"We also aim to create a nationally significant tourist attraction to complement the existing and planned improvements to the adjoining Tomaree National Park, in particular the recently announced coastal walk.
"Other objectives are to optimise visitor experiences and enterprise opportunities leading to the financial self-sufficiency of the site and to ensure its long-term sustainability; to facilitate the establishment of a museum/Interpretive centre; to realise the potential for educational and research facilities; and to strengthen Tomaree as a strategic tourism hub."
Mr Clough said that the future use and development of the headland would be guided by an integrated masterplan through an appropriate administrative authority to oversee planning and management issues.
He said that the support of both state government and Port Stephens Council - including the need for an amenities block and water station at the Tomaree Head access point - would be sought.
"We would like to see these facilities sooner rather than later."