newy.com.au – A new visitor sign has been unveiled at Bettles Park in Raymond Terrace to encourage travellers to stop longer, explore local attractions and support businesses in the town known as a gateway to Port Stephens.
The sign highlights local experiences including riverside walks, heritage attractions, playgrounds, cafes, shopping and scenic drives through the Port Stephens hinterland. It was designed in collaboration with local school children and aims to give visitors a clearer sense of what Raymond Terrace has to offer.
Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson said the project was a practical investment in local communities and visitor experiences.
“The Stronger Communities Programme supports projects that make communities more welcoming, connected and vibrant, and this signage is a great example of that,” Meryl Swanson said.
“By helping people discover more of Raymond Terrace and encouraging them to stop and support local businesses, this project strengthens the town as an important gateway to Port Stephens,” Meryl Swanson added.
Bettles Park is a highly visible gateway site and RV stop point, making it one of the first places many visitors see when arriving in Raymond Terrace. The project forms part of Port Stephens Council’s broader placemaking work to build community pride, encourage visitation and support local business growth.
Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said Raymond Terrace continued to grow as a destination and the new signage would help create a strong first impression.
“Raymond Terrace is a great place to visit and invest, and this project helps showcase everything our town has to offer,” Mayor Anderson said.
“Bettles Park is one of the first places visitors see when arriving in Raymond Terrace. This signage helps create a welcoming gateway and encourages people to explore places they may not have known about,” Mayor Anderson added.
The sign was officially launched at a community event on 18 June 2026, celebrating the collaboration between council, schools, community stakeholders and funding partners.
The project was funded by the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Programme in partnership with Port Stephens Council.
More information on Bettles Park and things to see and do in Raymond Terrace is available at pscouncil.info/bettles-park
