Concepts plans for the future of Tomaree Lodge, one of Port Stephens' most iconic locations, were shared with the community at a public event last night giving a first glimpse of the exciting possibilities for the site.
Commissioned by the NSW Government, the concepts have been developed by local Hunter-based design consultant, SHAC Architects, informed by ideas submitted in the 2023 Have Your Say survey, as well as contributions from local community interest groups.
A detailed site assessment undertaken by SHAC has considered the significant cultural, heritage and environmental value of the site, as well as the constraints that place limitations for future use. The assessment has determined that, while some of the ideas put forward are not viable given these constraints, there are many community ideas that hold potential for a range of recreational, educational, conservation, and cultural uses.
The concept plan paves the way for further feedback and community consultation. SHAC is working closely in collaboration with the Community Engagement Committee, comprised of local representatives; the NSW Government Steering Committee, comprised of local government agencies; Hunter Circles; and Worimi community leaders to incorporate and acknowledge the views of all stakeholders.
These groups will continue to play a key role to help guide decision-making on both short-term 'meanwhile use' initiatives outlined in the concepts and to solidify longer-term plans to enhance the site's potential for future public use.
The release of the concept plan marks the next step in the NSW Government's ongoing commitment to keep Tomaree Lodge in public hands for the benefit of the community. It builds on other recent improvements, like the opening of an on-site information hub earlier this year, as well as new beach showers, public seating, tables, and new signage and wayfinding.
Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said:
"Tomaree Lodge is an incredible local site, and I'm pleased to have shared this concept plan with the community. The plan identifies various opportunities for the future of the Tomaree Lodge site that have been informed by local consultation and suggestions.
"The NSW Government is committed to keeping Tomaree Lodge in public hands, and ensuring it remains a valuable community asset for generations to come.
"SHAC Architects has done a wonderful job exploring the many possibilities put forward by the community, and identifying which opportunities are viable considering the significant constraints on the site.
"I was able to secure $4.6 million in the budget this year so we can start to implement some of the immediate opportunities while we continue to land the longer term vision.
"I look forward to continuing to work closely with my community as we turn concepts into plans, and then bring those plans to life."
Department of Communities and Justice Secretary, Michael Tidball said:
"This marks an exciting milestone for the future of Tomaree Lodge.
"This concepts represent the culmination of extensive research, community input, and thoughtful consultation amongst all stakeholders.
"As we share the possibilities for this stunning location, we remain committed to ensuring that its heritage and environmental significance are respected, while enhancing its value as a public resource for many generations to come."
Justin Hamilton FAIA, Managing Director SHAC, said:
"SHAC congratulate the community for collaborative and creative placemaking.
"As local architects, we are privileged to have curated custodianship principles for this significant cultural landscape, the water, the land, the forests, and the heritage, alongside and for people with common unity.
"We are excited to share these preliminary concepts for a framework for conservation, celebration, innovation and education for generations."
