In a victory for people power, Killalea State Park is to become part of the NSW National Parks estate as a Regional Park.

Responsibility for its management will move to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), taking away the development threat proposed by the current manager, Reflections Holiday Parks (Killalea protest goes for a record), and ensuring that its unique environmental and cultural values are recognised.

"I'm ecstatic, that is exactly what we wanted," says John Davey, a committee member of the Save Killalea Alliance.

"We've put a lot of hard work into this campaign and we acknowledge the Minister, Matt Kean and Melinda Pavey for listening to our arguments."

In making the announcement, Environment Minister Matt Kean said the transfer, from NSW Crown Lands, was a major win for the community who have campaigned for greater protections for some time.

“Killalea is an area of incredible ecological and cultural importance and a space that is much loved by locals attracting about 30,000 visitors a month.

“As a Regional Park, Killalea will continue to be treasured, while at the same time its plants, animals, birds and threatened species will be protected for future generations.”

Members of the Save Killalea Alliance that galvanised the protest

Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the 260-hectare park will be protected by national parks legislation.

“Dedication of Killalea Regional Park will ensure this spectacular coastal location remains a pristine spot for camping, world class surfing, bushwalking, fishing and picnics.”

The Park is home to nine endangered ecological communities and provides habitat for many bird species.

NPWS will develop a new Plan of Management for Killalea Regional Park when the transfer takes place, working with local residents, Aboriginal groups, Council, the surfing community and environmental groups.