A Port Stephens community activist has weighed into two major issues facing the Tomaree peninsula, warning authorities to tread carefully when planning projects in environmentally sensitive areas.
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Nelson Bay's Carol Ridgeway-Bissett, a Worimi custodian and knowledge holder who was born in Soldiers Point, has spoken out on the proposed $6.7 million Tomaree Coastal Walk and the $188 million state government-funded Fingal bypass.
Ms Ridgeway-Bissett said that she had lodged her submission to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) after thoroughly studying the draft master plan, which aims to deliver a 20 kilometre link between Tomaree headland and Birubi Point. She says she is preparing her written submission on the Fingal bypass.
"I support the views of John Clarke who has opposed the proposed route which cuts across the eastern face of the three headlands to the south," she said.
"Some of the old hills - at Fishermans Bay and Boulder Bay - are volcanic and there are signs they starting to crumble. I am extremely concerned with potential erosion at Stephens Peak, which becomes a serious safety issue. The walk from Box Beach to Zenith would be a safer option."
Ms Ridgeway-Bissett said that any construction plans for both the coastal walk and Fingal road bypass should steer clear of natural bushland where there are rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.
"We have areas of old growth trees which need protecting, along with special native plants and reptiles. We should avoid clearing any more native bushland which threaten the existence of rare plants and animals such as frogs and snakes.
"Port Stephens has already lost many of its koalas due to the destruction of habitat, we cannot have other reptiles and plants under similar threats all in the name of development."
She said that any infrastructure such as the construction of lookout areas, pathways and information panels would need to be carefully planned. "I would prefer no panels because of the potential for vandalism. Maybe they can use technology where visitors can get the information on their phones or an app. Guides talking about the cultural heritage and history of the area would also be beneficial."
Submissions for the coastal walk have closed, but Port Stephens residents have until December 11 have their say on three potential route options for the Fingal Bay Link Road. Comments can be sent to the project team by email at fingalbay@transport.nsw.gov.au or by post to: Transport for NSW, Locked Bag 2030, Newcastle NSW 2300.
