Dorrigo Escarpment Great Walk: project update 1

Planning has commenced on a new multi-day walk and a spectacular new visitor centre as part of a $56 million investment on Gumbaynggirr Country in Dorrigo National Park.

We've been thrilled with the response to this project since it was announced by the Treasurer and the Minister for Environment on 19 June 2022. The proposal for a new multi-day walk and visitor centre in Dorrigo National Park has certainly captured people's imaginations.

Media coverage of the event showcased the magnificent Gondwana rainforests and architectural animations of the stunning new visitor centre, highlighting the project's potential to put New South Wales on the global ecotourism map.

Here's a sample of some of the media coverage:

It is obvious from the public response that there is strong interest in the project, both locally and from afar. This is clearly one of the most exciting and significant projects in the history of North Coast national parks, and we're keen to keep our community informed and engaged.

The project – what's being delivered?

The project team

We are establishing a dedicated new team of staff to deliver the project with expertise and experience in project management and on-ground delivery. The team will include 6 staff, who will also draw on the many years of staff experience across the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

There will also be opportunities for specialist contractors during the planning and construction phases of the project. Local companies, individuals, and anyone interested can register on our project webpage, stating their specific skills and services, so we can keep them informed of relevant opportunities as they arise.

New plan of management underway

Preparation of a new plan of management for Dorrigo National Park, Bindarri National Park and Bindarri State Conservation Area is underway. Once a draft plan of management has been prepared, it will be placed on public exhibition for community feedback.

We will keep you informed of an opportunity to 'have your say' on the draft plan of management, with public exhibition planned for 2023. We are also planning to exhibit the draft project master plans with the draft plan of management.

Next steps

• Project team to be established by December 2022.
• Continue preparing the draft plan of management for Dorrigo and Bindarri national parks.
• Continue preparing draft master plans for Dorrigo Arc Rainforest Centre and Dorrigo Escarpment Great Walk.
• Finalise tenders for preliminary environmental assessments.
• Ongoing consultation with key stakeholders and interested community groups.