Starting Monday, 4 September, is a two-day helicopter operation to winch essential materials to continue work on the Illawarra sections of the Great Southern Walk track. 

Ryan Park, Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast, said that weather permitting, the helicopter will lift approximately 110 loads of sandstone, steps and rocks to the tracks so work can continue on NSW’s next Great Walk.

“The work will be happening on the popular Wodi Wodi and Forest Path walking tracks within the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area,” Mr Park said, adding that “Large sandstone steps, rocks and crush will be flown to various points along the track routes as part of this major upgrade program.”

Maryanne Stuart, Member for Heathcote, urged locals to take care while the winching operation was underway. “For public safety, track closures will be in place along sections of the Wodi Wodi and Forest Path Walk tracks during the operation,” she said.

The public is asked to follow all signage and directions and to stay clear of the operation area for their safety and the safety of the contractors undertaking the work.

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) often relies on helicopters to transport construction materials to walking tracks as the location and rugged terrain make vehicle access impossible.

Track upgrades are expected to take eight months and are earmarked to form a part of NSW’s next Great Walk, the Great Southern Walk, linking Sydney to the Illawarra Escarpment. 

Information on walking tracks in the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area is on the NPWS website. (www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/illawarra-escarpment-state-conservation-area)

Up-to-date information on temporary walking track closures: NPWS Alerts. (www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/alerts/alerts-list)