Awabakal Fernleigh Track: A New Chapter in Hunter Region’s Active Transport Legacy

11 August 2024

LAKE MACQUARIE, NSW — The completion of the Awabakal Fernleigh Track marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development of the Hunter Region’s active transport network, linking Adamstown to Belmont and now extending further towards the Central Coast. This new section, officially opened today, builds upon the legacy of the original Fernleigh Track, transforming what was once a vital rail corridor into a premier pathway for walkers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts.

The original Fernleigh Track, stretching 15.5 kilometres from Adamstown to Belmont, has a rich history rooted in the region’s industrial past. Originally a railway line, it was operational from the late 19th century until its closure in 1991. The line served as a crucial transport route for coal and passengers, connecting the bustling suburbs of Newcastle with the more rural areas to the south.

After the railway’s closure, the disused corridor fell into disrepair, but a visionary plan by local councils and community groups saw its potential as a recreational space. By the early 2000s, the track was reborn as a shared walking and cycling path, with the key feature being the iconic 181-metre-long Fernleigh Tunnel, a relic of the track’s rail heritage. This tunnel, with its cool, dark interior and historical charm, quickly became a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Expanding Horizons

The success of the original Fernleigh Track paved the way for further expansions, leading to the development of the Awabakal Fernleigh Track. This new extension connects the end of the original track at Belmont to Blacksmiths Beach, creating a continuous 27-kilometre active transport route from Murrays Beach to Adamstown, making it the longest of its kind in the Hunter Region.

Construction of the southern section began in April 2021 and was completed on schedule by August 2022. The northern section, which extends from the end of the Fernleigh Track at Belmont to Ocean Park Road, commenced in September 2023 and is set to be completed in August 2024.

A Pathway to the Future

The Awabakal Fernleigh Track not only extends the reach of the original pathway but also enhances its offerings. The new track includes a landmark viewing platform, a 400-metre wetland boardwalk near Belmont Lagoon, and sculptural installations that pay tribute to the Awabakal people, the traditional custodians of the land. The track also features upgraded bus stops, safety barriers, and a new amenities building near the Belmont terminus.

This extension is part of a broader vision to create a regional network of pathways, with plans to further extend the track towards the Central Coast. The completed 27-kilometre route is expected to be a major drawcard for tourists and locals, promoting active lifestyles and showcasing the natural beauty of Lake Macquarie.

Community and Cultural Significance

The Awabakal Fernleigh Track has been developed with extensive community consultation and cultural sensitivity. Local Aboriginal artists Shellie Smith, Daniella Chedzey, and Julie Squires have created artworks along the track, reflecting the area’s cultural heritage. The elevated boardwalk over Belmont Lagoon, a site of great cultural significance, features these works, including a representation of a traditional Awabakal camp.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser highlighted the importance of this project, stating, “We are blessed with so many beautiful places here in Lake Mac, but Belmont Lagoon is up there with the best of them. Until now, it’s been a bit of a hidden gem, but the Awabakal Fernleigh Track provides a very low-impact means of shedding light on this natural and cultural wonder.”

Official Opening Today – Lord Mayor of Lake Macquarie Kay Fraser

Lake Macquarie Lord Mayor Kay Fraser expressed her pride in the completion of the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track, which she officially opened. Mayor Fraser highlighted the collaborative effort behind the project, thanking key figures such as Pat Conroy MP, Yasmin Catley MP, Jenny Aitchison MP, Bahtabah Local Aboriginal Land Council, and fellow Lake Macquarie Councillors. She also acknowledged the contribution of artists Julie Squires, Daniella Chedzey, and Shellie Smith, whose sculptural interpretation of a traditional Aboriginal ‘gunya’ adds a meaningful cultural element to the track. Mayor Fraser described the track as a lasting piece of infrastructure that will celebrate the beauty, culture, and environment of the city for years to come.

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