newy.com.au – Families are being invited to help launch a new free scavenger hunt at Shoal Bay during the school holidays, with Port Stephens Council hosting an opening event on Wednesday, July 8.
The Shoal Bay Scavenger Hunt will launch at Shoal Bay Foreshore Reserve from 10am to 1pm, giving families the first chance to pick up a map and follow the new trail. The event will include face painting and a Kids DJ, with stickers and lollipops awarded to children who complete the adventure at Tomaree Headland.
Council says the activity has been designed to get children outdoors, active and engaged during the holidays and beyond. Locals and visitors will be able to take part at any time, making the trail an ongoing year-round attraction.
Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson said the initiative was aimed at creating more vibrant public spaces while supporting tourism outside peak periods.
“The Shoal Bay Scavenger Hunt gives families, visitors and locals a wonderful reason to slow down, explore, discover hidden gems and create memories together in one of Port Stephens’ most iconic locations, while celebrating and learning about the local environment,” Mayor Anderson said.
“By encouraging exploration, we’re bringing people into our town centres and supporting local businesses. This project highlights Council’s ongoing investment in initiatives that strengthen community connection and tourism,” Mayor Anderson added.
“It also comes at a proud time for our community, following the news that Shoal Bay won the prestigious NRMA People’s Choice Award in the Small Tourism Town category at the 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards. This new trail is just one more fun way to get outdoors and enjoy everything that makes our public-voted People’s Choice town so special,” Mayor Anderson concluded.
Destination Port Stephens chief executive Jo Thomas said the scavenger hunt would give visitors another reason to spend more time exploring the area.
“Visitors are increasingly looking for experiences that help them connect with a place in a meaningful and memorable way, and the Shoal Bay Scavenger Hunt does exactly that,” Jo Thomas said.
“It encourages families to explore beyond the beach, discover local businesses and attractions, check out the offerings at Tomaree Headland and experience the unique character that makes Shoal Bay such a special destination. We’re proud to partner with Council and local stakeholders on initiatives like this that enhance the visitor experience and support local tourism operators year-round,” Jo Thomas added.
The project supports the goals of the Our Incredible Place Strategy by activating public spaces. Council is delivering it in partnership with Newy with Kids, Destination Port Stephens, the Department of Communities and Justice, Shoaly Collective and local business operators.
People who cannot attend the launch can collect a free Shoal Bay Scavenger Hunt activity form from the Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre. More information about scavenger hunts in Port Stephens is available at pscouncil.info/scavenger-hunts.
