It took more than 400 helicopter loads to build, and now walkers can finally take it on.
A new section of the Mulumun Trail has opened at South West Rocks, linking Smoky Cape Lighthouse to Little Bay along some of the Macleay Valley Coast’s most spectacular coastal scenery.
The opening was celebrated at the trailhead near Smoky Cape Lighthouse, marking a milestone in one of the region’s most significant nature-based tourism projects.
Mayor Kinne Ring said the opening was a proud moment for the community.
“This section creates a formalised path and a safer connection from Smoky Cape Lighthouse to Little Bay, linking with pathways through to Back Creek,” Mayor Ring said.
“Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with walkers praising the scenery, route and overall experience.”
The trail is being delivered by Kempsey Shire Council and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), with $3.355 million from the NSW Government and extra contributions from both delivery partners.
Building it was no walk in the park.
More than 400 helicopter loads were used to fly materials into hard-to-reach areas, including sandstone for steps and gradient improvements.
The approach reduced environmental disturbance and improved safety, while materials from the site were reused where possible.
Track construction was delivered by contractor Soil Conservation Services, together with subcontractors Wuunggati Barriya Aboriginal Corporation’s Dunghutti Rangers.
The State Government is betting the trail will lure more visitors to South West Rocks and give local businesses a boost.
“The NSW Government is proud to support projects like the Mulumun Trail, which showcase the natural beauty of regional NSW while creating new reasons for people to visit, stay longer and spend locally,” said Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty.
“This new section of trail is a great example of how targeted investment in regional tourism infrastructure can strengthen local economies, support jobs and improve access to the unique places that make communities like South West Rocks so special.”
Ring said the trail would also be good for the local economy.
“Projects like this encourage visitors to stay longer, explore more of our towns and villages and support local businesses, while reinforcing pride in the places that make our region unique,” Ring said.
For NPWS, the Mulumun Trail is about more than just walking.
“It’s about connecting people with country, culture and some of the most remarkable coastal environments in the state, while supporting sustainable tourism and helping visitors experience the unique beauty of the Macleay Valley Coast,” said NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Executive Director Park Operations Coastal Naomi Stephens.
And there’s more to come.
New wayfinding and interpretive signs will be installed along the trail in the coming months.
Work is already under way on the next section, linking Big Hill to Point Plomer Beach.
When finished, the Mulumun Trail will offer everything from short coastal strolls to multi-day adventures, while celebrating the natural and cultural values of the Macleay Valley.
For more information on the project, visit ksc.pub/mulumun.
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