Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has proudly unveiled a new section of the Beach-to-Beach shared pathway in Camden Haven, made of fibre-reinforced plastic.
Funded through a partnership with the State and Federal Governments, Section D5 of the pathway completes a vital missing pathway link between The Boulevarde (D4) near the cyclist sculpture and the Dunbogan Boatshed (D6), providing a safe, accessible, and scenic route for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
“The completion of this section of the Beach-to-Beach Shared Pathway (D5) is a fantastic outcome for our community,” said Mayor Adam Roberts.
“It delivers on safety, accessibility, and amenity, and shows what can be achieved when all levels of government and the community work together.
“This project has been an important vision for the Beach-to-Beach Committee, and its delivery thus far is credit to the work they have done to advocate for improved accessibility in the Camden Haven. I look forward to seeing the remaining sections delivered in the future.”
State Member for Port Macquarie, Rober Dwyer said that since its inception in 2013, the Beach-to-Beach pathway has become an iconic attraction for the Camden Haven.
“The shared vision of the original Beach to Beach Committee including Andy McCoubrie, Penny Small, Bob and Jillian Wells, Phil Higgins, Scott Martin as well as Mary and Peter Laing over many years to bring this major project to fruition has to be commended and I will continue to advocate for funding for the next stages of this popular pathway,” Mr Dwyer said.
Federal Member for Lyne, Alison Penfold said it was fantastic to see the vital link in the Beach-to-Beach Shared Pathway completed – “a project that not only enhances safety and accessibility but also celebrates the natural beauty of our coastline.”
“The partnership between all levels of government and the Camden Haven community shows what can be achieved when we work together to invest in the well-being of residents and build more connected communities,” she said.
The new pathway, delivered by Frontier Assembly, spans approximately 230 metres and features a fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) boardwalk system designed for a minimum 50-year lifespan.
The innovative material was chosen for its durability in intertidal conditions, its low-maintenance qualities, and its environmental sensitivity. The boardwalk includes mini-mesh gratings, polished stainless-steel handrails, and solar lighting, ensuring the path can be enjoyed day and night. On either side of the boardwalk, concrete link paths tie the new section seamlessly into the existing network.
Delivery of section D5 was made possible thanks to a $1 million NSW Government Get NSW Active Funding grant and $845,000 from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
With section D5 now open, more than 8 kilometres of the 11.2km pathway is now complete. Council, in partnership with the Beach-to-Beach Shared Pathway Committee and funding partners, says it will continue to pursue the delivery of future stages to ultimately achieve a continuous active transport link from North Haven to Pilot Beach.
