newy.com.au – The northern section of Carrington’s mangrove boardwalk will be fully renewed after investigations found minor repairs would not be enough, with construction scheduled to finish in early 2027, weather permitting.
City of Newcastle says work will begin this month. The southern section, which was upgraded in 2018, will remain open from Hargrave Street to the second large viewing platform during construction.
The project will combine structural upgrades to improve safety and access with new educational signs explaining the mangroves’ ecological importance and their connection to the Traditional Custodians of Onebygamba/Carrington.
The council’s executive director of city infrastructure, David Witherdin, said work would be carried out above the tidal line from the existing boardwalk, rather than within the mangrove sediment, to help protect the sensitive environment.
He said Traditional Custodians were helping shape the cultural elements of the renewal. Spiritual Waterways Indigenous Corporation, an Aboriginal organisation that shares stories and cultural knowledge, will guide the development of the signs.
Aunty Theresa Dargin, of Spiritual Waterways, said the signs would reflect a deep connection to Country and the waterways’ importance to generations of Traditional Custodians.
“Our bloodline runs strong through the waterways and land of this area. These waters have been an important area for crabbing and fishing for the Traditional Custodians for many generations,” Aunty Theresa said.
“We hope that passing on and preserving our knowledge of cultural practices will encourage healing of the waterway.”
VIDEO of bypass on Monday – https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1E6C9Fon1s
