Killalea State Park, aka The Farm, has been saved from development and will be protected by NSW National Parks! 

 

The NSW South Coast community of Shellharbour has been fighting for the protection of Killalea State Park for two years since the announcement of $6.5 million of government funding for the site’s development in 2019. 

However over the weekend, Environment Minister Matt Kean announced that the 265 hectare reserve will be transferred from crown land to the NSW National Parks estate and given protections as a regional park. Hell yeah! 

‘Killalea is an area of incredible ecological and cultural importance and a space that is much loved by locals attracting about 30,000 visitors a month,’ Mr Kean said.

‘As a regional park, Killalea will continue to be treasured, while at the same time its plants, animals, birds, and threatened species will be protected for future generations,’ Mr Kean said.

The potential development would’ve seen the surf reserve populated with 15 eco-cabins, 53 campsites, and a 200-seat event space. 

‘The reserve is currently managed by Reflections Holiday Parks who welcome the outcome for it to come under the care of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and recognise its unique environmental and cultural values,’ said Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey.

In May this year, 682 surfers as well as thousands of supporters from Shellharbour and the wider South Coast community, took part in an unofficial world-record paddle out to call for no development of The Farm and increased protections. 

 

 

The community’s wishes have been heard! Another win for people power! 

 

Feature photo thanks to DNSW