The Minns Labor Government has today reopened the Ben Smith Campsite near Tumut, delivering on its commitment to restore one of the Riverina's most loved outdoor destinations after years of damage left it closed to the community.
The campsite, a popular rest stop on the historic Hume and Hovell Track, has been fully restored and upgraded following a $350,000 investment, bringing it back to life after it was devastated by bushfire in 2019 and further damaged by flooding in 2020.
The upgraded facilities include:
- A new hikers' hut with an elevated sleeping platform for up to six people
- A repaired water tank and barbecue
- Levelled ground to accommodate more campers
- Additional picnic tables, to be installed in coming months
Today's reopening is also a significant milestone for the broader Hume and Hovell Track. The 2019 bushfires and 2020 floods damaged almost 120 kilometres of the iconic walking route.
The Ben Smith Campsite is the final piece of that restoration, completing years of work the Minns Labor Government has delivered to bring the full track back to life for local communities and visitors.
Access to the campsite has also been improved, with a new 1.2km walking track from Yellowin Road to the campsite, including a pedestrian bridge with scenic views of the surrounding Riverina landscape.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
"The re-opening of the Ben Smith Campsite is a benefit for hikers who want an affordable, safe and convenient way to enjoy the Hume and Hovell Track, one of NSW's most scenic walking routes, taking visitors through farmland, state forests and national parkland.
"The Minns Labor Government is focused on building better communities, and investments in tourism, like the Hume and Hovell track, will help regional communities thrive."
Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, said:
"The Ben Smith campsite is a key point on a much-loved walking trail. Like many in the community, I was devastated with the damage done to the track by fire and flood.
"I was privileged to see some of the associated infrastructure from the redevelopment when I took part in Tumbatrek this year and I'm proud to have advocated for the restoration of this landmark site.
"It's one of the jewels in our environmental and tourism crown and I congratulate the government and all agencies for returning this treasured site to our community."
