Refurbished Huskisson Boardwalk unlocks Currambene Creek mangroves
Published on 03 December 2024
Access to the magnificent mangroves of Currambene Creek at Huskisson has been significantly improved following the major refurbishment of the nearly 40-year-old Huskisson Mangrove Boardwalk.
Shoalhaven City Council was awarded $2,443,605 through the Australian and NSW governments Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund for the project.
The 350-metre walkway now features a wider boardwalk, constructed from sustainable materials designed to withstand weather and tidal conditions, as well as new seating and interpretative signage.
An innovative ‘top-down’ construction method was employed, allowing heavy equipment to use completed sections of the boardwalk to drive piles and build from above, minimizing the impact on the surrounding mangroves.
In addition to a new footbridge at the floodgate and accessible picnic tables, the Dent Street carpark has been resealed and now offers two accessible parking spaces and new lighting.
Visitors can access the boardwalk through the Jervis Bay Maritime Museum on Dent Street in Huskisson.
Jointly funded through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund supports job retention and creation in bushfire impacted regions, strengthening community resilience and reducing the impact of future disasters.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Jenny McAllister:
“The new boardwalk will allow the community to enjoy the beautiful greenery and marine life at Currambene Creek.
“Wider paths and better signage will also help encourage new visitors and support the local economy.
“We’re working with all levels of government to help communities recover and rebuild.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:
“The new look Huskisson Mangrove boardwalk will increase public access to the popular destination.
“Built in 1988, the original boardwalk gave visitors to Huskisson an up-close look at this environmental and culturally significant mangrove area,” Ms Moriarty said.
“The new wider accessible walkway will ensure safer experience for visitors of all abilities looking to explore wonders of the mangroves.”
“The NSW Government is backing community projects on the South Coast that will boost preparedness for future disasters, encourage economic development, aid tourism and bring people together.”
Quotes attributable to Shoalhaven City Council Mayor Patricia White:
“The upgraded boardwalk will allow the community to get up close and personal with the fauna and flora of this important ecosystem.
“Currambene Creek forms part of the Jervis Bay Marine Park and provides the ideal habitat for birds and sea creatures.
“Improved access, continuous paths, and the inclusion of interpretive signage has created an inclusive and attractive destination, making it easier for school groups, residents and tourists to immerse themselves in our rich natural environment.
“The upgrade was carried out with sensitivity to ensure minimal disturbance to aquatic life and life and our precious mangroves.”