The park will receive the upgrade as part of the council's latest works program.

Former Salamander Bay Rotary Club president and longtime Port Stephens resident Ina George has been committed to sourcing funds to upgrade and restore the park named after a relative for the entire Bay community.

"George Reserve in Salamander Bay is an iconic waterfront park with spectacular views to the Tomaree Headlands," Ms George said.

"The reserve is named after my husband's late uncle Herbert George - a member of Port Stephens Council over 50 years ago - and I wanted to revitalise the neglected park and bring it back to life.

"This park has been visited by thousands of people throughout the years and continues to be enjoyed for family celebrations, weddings, Easter, Christmas, Australia Day and events all year round.

"I had previously sourced funding for picnic facilities upgrades which are complete and now I'm thrilled that George Reserve will be completely refurbished with the latest upgrades.

"Port Stephens Council has now demolished the old amenities block and is ready to build a new modern facility to improve safety and accessibility for all and will also be upgrading the swing set.

"I am so proud as a long term resident of Port Stephens to see this historic park rejuvenated and I hope it will bring enjoyment to everyone for many years to come."

In September 2019, council announced that a combination of reserve funds, developer contributions and a $5 million bank loan would kick-start $15.9 million worth of projects for Port Stephens. the amenities replacement at George Reserve was estimated to cost $150,000. The foreshore improvements listed for Conroy Park, at Corlette, were estimated to cost $178,000.

Port Stephens mayor Ryan Palmer says the improvements would make a big difference for users.

"George Reserve may be small but it's very popular with locals including young families and it's not hard to see why - the view over the port is spectacular," he said.

"To make this space even better for users, we're installing a new swing set for the kids and new pathways to improve access to and from the playground. This is particularly helpful for people using mobility aids, parents with prams or kids on bikes and scooters.

"We're also installing new inclusive amenities and a beach shower, which will be a big upgrade on the current facilities.

"We want to encourage more people to get outside, get active and enjoy our beautiful surroundings - these upgrades are one way we can do that," he said.

Works are funded by the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program phase 2 and PS2020 funds.

Construction of the new amenities is expected to take 12 weeks for completion. There will be no public amenities available during this time.

For more information on council's projects in Port Stephens, visit portstephens.nsw.gov.au/projects.