State Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland and Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain have announced $6.5 million in funding for Mimosa Rocks National Park. Photo: Supplied.
Mimosa Rocks National Park has received $6.5 million in funding from the Federal and NSW governments to better protect it from natural disasters.
The park captures some 20 kilometres of coastline between Bermagui and Tathra with pristine lagoons and beaches, plus stunning headlands and offshore stacks. It is popular with nature lovers, birdwatchers, and artists. It is also home to oyster farms.
Severe flooding in 2021 and 2022 caused significant damage, which led to extensive closures of campsites and visitor precincts.
About 76 per cent of campgrounds, 60 sites in total, plus several popular day-use areas, were either closed or had limited access until repairs could be made.
The grant is from the Australian and NSW governments’ $200 million Infrastructure Betterment Fund, which is used to repair and rebuild public assets directly impacted by natural disasters.
The park’s drainage systems will be upgraded to manage heavy rainfall, while high-risk campsites will be relocated to minimise future flood damage.
Access and safety upgrades include improved road surfaces and pedestrian beach access points to mitigate the effects of ocean storms and dune erosion.
The improvements will be made at Aragunnu, Gillards Beach, Middle Beach and Nelsons Beach, including three campsites.
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain said Mimosa Rocks National Park was one of the Sapphire Coast’s most popular destinations.
“From fishing, birdwatching, picnics, and whale watching, Mimosa Rocks has so much to offer, which is why we’re ensuring that locals can make the most of it, and that we can continue to attract more visitors to the Bega Valley,” she said.
Mimosa Rocks at Aragunnu, in Mimosa Rocks National Park. Photo: John Yurasek, NPWS.
NSW Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said the improvements would reduce flood closures and minimise disruption to visitors, while improving safety.
“The improvements will also reduce economic impacts to the region by ensuring campsites and visitors’ precincts remain open,” Ms Sharpe said.
State Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland said more than 200,000 people visited Mimosa Rocks National Park every year, making it a key contributor to the Bega Valley’s economy.
“It is crucial that Mimosa Rocks is accessible for visitors and offers them an exceptional experience of this beautiful South Coast gem,” he said.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said it was another good example of a positive outcome when the NSW and Commonwealth governments worked together to deliver for the South Coast.
The project is in the planning phase.
Construction will begin in the coming months and visitors will experience intermittent disruptions.
People should check NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service alerts before visiting. They can register for progress updates.
Construction is expected to be delivered in stages, starting in 2025, pending planning approvals.
The project is expected to be completed in 2026.
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