Anna Watson, Premier Chris Minns and NSW NPWS area manager Andrew Wall look over the Killalea Regional Park draft precinct plan. Photo: Kellie O’Brien.
NSW Premier Chris Minns announced the adoption of the Killalea Regional Park Plan of Management during his first visit to the pristine Shellharbour location on Tuesday (3 December).
Mr Minns also received a tour and briefing from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS) and Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson on the Killalea Regional Park Draft Precinct Plan, which is being finalised and has its release scheduled for April 2025.
The draft precinct plan, which NPWS received community feedback on earlier in the year, provides detailed explanations on the design and construction of proposed upgrades to the main visitor precinct in the park.
As a longboard surfer, the Premier was impressed with the location as he was shown around from the main gate and depot through to views of the famous surf break at The Farm he had heard about.
“I was delighted to welcome the Premier, Chris Minns, to Killalea Regional Park to announce the release of the updated Plan of Management for the park,” Ms Watson said.
“Killalea is a magical place that is much loved by our local community and visitors alike, and after today’s visit we can definitely add the Premier to the fan club.
“The community and I fought hard to save Killalea from development for many years and it is wonderful that it is now safely under the care of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.”
Previous proposals for the area have included conference centres and commercial kitchens, which had upset residents and visitors.
Record numbers attended protests and paddle outs which eventually led to the management of the park being removed from administrators Reflections Holiday Parks and being put in the hands of NSW NPWS.
Premier Chris Minns with NSW Parks and Wildlife Services representatives at the Killalea Regional Park depot. Photo: Kellie O’Brien.
Its new plan aims to ensure Aboriginal cultural practices are continued, community use and educational opportunities supported and it retains its low-key “natural” character.
It proposes combining the existing buildings that accommodate the visitor facilities, environmental education, Aboriginal cultural activities and visitor services into a multi-use visitors pavilion.
Wraparound verandahs and a central covered courtyard would create generous gathering spaces and shade, while multi-purpose rooms would open onto picnic areas.
The building would be located on the footprint of the existing kiosk using salvaged stone.
Other features include improving parking, toilet facilities, picnic facilities, accessible pathways and landscaping.
It also proposed a natural play area to provide an inclusive and accessible space for children of all abilities to connect with nature and appreciate the environment of the park.
“I would like to thank NPWS area manager Andrew Wall and his wonderful staff at Killalea for their dedication to this community asset,” Ms Watson said.
“I look forward to returning in mid-2025 to announce the final precinct plan which will include much needed upgrades to the pavilion, picnic areas and access paths to the beach.”
When asked about the cost of the project, no-one was able to provide a definitive answer at this stage.
Original Article published by Kellie O’Brien on Region Illawarra.
