New natural pathway for Wairo Beach

The NSW Government has removed a dilapidated timber boardwalk at Wairo Beach on the state’s South Coast and replaced it with a natural pathway to boost public safety and protect the area’s precious and unique natural habitat.

Crown Lands contributed $241,000 toward the project which removed the existing boardwalk that was built in 1997 and had reached the end of its life.

Wairo Beach is a perfect spot for a weekend getaway, but that the old boardwalk and had reached the end of its life and was no longer fit for purpose.

The boardwalk has been replaced by a new natural pathway, ensuring visitors can access Wairo Beach at the location while also protecting and regenerating the nearby sand dunes.

Bollards and chain fencing were erected throughout the 200-metre pathway, allowing visitors to safely access the area’s beaches while also directing them away from the nearby dunes, which are nesting sites for a number of threatened shorebird species.

Three endangered bird species lay their eggs at Wairo Beach: the Hooded Plovers (Charadrius), Little Tern (Sternula albifrons) and the Pied Oystercatcher (Haematopus longirostris). The breeding pairs lay their eggs in the dunes, requiring the cordoning off of these areas from public access to ensure the species can thrive into the future.

The new natural guided path will help visitors access the beach while at the same time conserving the area’s unique local environment and heritage.

Member for South Coast Liza Butler said:

“I am proud to see the NSW Government support the transformation of Wairo Beach’s access pathway into a safe, sustainable, and environmentally friendly asset for the community and visitors alike. This project balances the needs of public access with the critical protection of our unique and precious natural habitats.”

“This investment demonstrates our commitment to preserving not just the beauty but the ecological and cultural significance of this beloved area. This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when sustainability, safety, and community priorities come together.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“Every year thousands of people visit Wairo Beach, boosting tourism and economic activity in the Shoalhaven region and this project will support safe public access,” Mr Kamper said.

“Crown reserves play an important role protecting the environment and supporting communities with everything from green open space, parks and walking tracks to showgrounds, sporting ovals and community halls.”