We are blessed, here in Port Stephens, with some of the most spectacular scenery in this country. Those who have climbed Tomaree Head and looked north wonder at the beauty of Yacaaba, Cabbage Tree, Boondelbah and Broughton islands.
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Looking south the view is equally as amazing with the three prominent headlands Stephens Peak, Quarry Hill and Green Hill dividing Zenith, Wreck and Box Beaches before Fingal Spit comes into view.
This breath-taking view has remained unchanged for who knows how long. Currently NPWS has on public display a plan for a walking track to link Tomaree to Anna Bay which I think is a great idea. I support the establishment of walking tracks for all the obvious health and well-being reasons.
I have always appreciated the great outdoors and the closeness to nature, particularly here on the Tomaree Peninsular which is more beautiful than anywhere I have ever been. People come to visit and live here for that very reason.
There is no doubt that a walking track hugging the coastline, as suggested by NPWS, would be spectacular.
However, it must be asked - at what cost?
I strongly oppose the proposed route of the track, tabled by NPWS, which cuts across the eastern face of the three headlands to the south.
How can anyone consider such a project? What can be the motivation? There must be a reason to propose such a project. Maybe it is a never to forget visual experience, an increase in tourism, world-wide exposure, more money flowing into the community?
As caring members of the local community, we must ask ourselves, do these reasons off-set the impact? My answer is: 'No way'.
When will it be realised by those who wish to "improve" the area that our greatest asset is our natural beauty. Why jeopardise it by carving into iconic landforms?
Consideration must be given to the threat to the environment, potential erosion, the cultural intrusion and the loss of a beautiful sight in its natural state.
My suggestion is that the walking track follow the established walking track and fire trail on the western face of the headlands before linking with the Fingal track south.
Leave the headlands as they stand.
The money available would be far better spent on Fingal Island where introduced vegetation, the ruins of the light keepers' residence and the collapsed fencing remain a monument to man's idiocy.
- Port Stephens fishing identity John 'Stinker' Clarke is a long-time columnist for the Port Stephens Examiner
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