Boat ramps across Port Stephens are now open to all users and lifeguards are back patrolling at One Mile Beach.
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As more COVID-19 restrictions eased across NSW on Monday, June 1, further council-operated services came online across Port Stephens including the complete reopening of boat ramps and holiday parks.
It comes as access was once again granted to NSW National Parks, but with some user restrictions in place, and the Stockton sand dunes to four wheel driving.
In line with the easing of travel restrictions in NSW, on June 1 the Port Stephens Council-operated Beachside Holiday Parks were reopened to visitors.
Locals and visitors to the Port are now able to use boat ramps but are reminded to practice social distancing (maintain a 1.5 metre physical distance between other people). Throughout May, only Port residents were able to use the area's boat ramps.
From June 1 lifeguards will once again be patrolling One Mile Beach seven days a week between 9am and 4pm until September. Lifeguard services have ended for the season at Birubi Beach and Fingal Beach.
Tilligerry Aquatic Centre in Mallabula is set to reopen on June 8 with restrictions in place including: a maximum of eight swimmers at any one time, one lane per swimmer and prior booking to use the centre.
Once maintenance is completed at Tomaree Aquatic Centre in Nelson Bay and the pool reopens, Tilligerry will then be closed for maintenance.
Lakeside Aquatic Centre in Raymond Terrace will remain closed due to recent and significant repair works to its heat pumps.
On Monday, the libraries in Raymond Terrace and Salamander Bay once again opened their doors to the public but with reduced opening hours and services. Tilligerry Community Library will reopen on Tuesday, June 9. The mobile library is still closed.
The latest changes follow the reopening of the Port's skate and scooter parks, barbecue facilities, dog exercise parks, outdoor fitness stations and equipment, parks, reserves, playgrounds and play equipment mid-May, one month after they were closed to help contain the spread of COVID-19 within the community.
Finnan Park, on the shores of Grahamstown Dam, remains closed by Hunter Water.
Community centres and halls across the local government area remain closed while sporting venues are open for informal exercise.
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Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
