Call for community input on the future of Tomaree Headland

2 August 2024

Members of the public are invited to have their say on the future of the Tomaree Lodge site in Port Stephens, with a new community committee being established to assist long-term planning and shape more immediate upgrades.

The Tomaree Lodge Community Engagement Committee will play an important role in the NSW Government’s commitment to ensure the site is retained for community use and public enjoyment.

Community voices will be front and centre in the planning process. The committee will provide an important consultative and advisory function on matters impacting the site, including increasing public use.

The committee will also help guide strategies to promote the short-term use of the site while protecting its historical, environmental and cultural significance.

Planning for the future of the Tomaree Lodge site, formerly a centre for people with disability, is ongoing with an extensive public consultation completed last year.

An expression of interest (EOI) process for the community to join the committee will open today until Friday 23 August 2024. Further information on how to apply can be found here: https://dcj.nsw.gov.au/about-us/engage-with-us/public-consultations/statutory-reviews/future-use-of-tomaree-lodge-site.html

The Tomaree Lodge Community Engagement Committee will consist of six community members and will be established shortly after the EOI process.

Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington said:

“Tomaree Headland is one of the most spectacular parts of Port Stephens and I know how much the community cares about it. 

“This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in the future of this very special place and I encourage people to apply.

“The committee will support government agencies and various stakeholders by providing valuable feedback and advice.

“I look forward to working together with the community to ensure that Tomaree Headland is an amazing destination for locals and visitors alike, now and into the future.”