National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) are reopening the Tomaree Head Summit Walk this weekend following extensive works to repair a landslip caused by the heavy rains in March this year.
NPWS Hunter Coast Area Manager Andrew Bond said NPWS engaged a specialist geotechnical engineer to assess the flood damage prior to beginning remediation works.
"The heavy rains we experienced in March led to widespread flooding and landslips within Tomaree National Park," said Mr Bond.
"Once the worst of the weather passed, NPWS engaged a specialist geotechnical engineer to assess the track and confirm the remedial works that were required to repair the damage and make it safe for visitors.
"Over the past few weeks, we've been undertaking those works, stabilising the ground surface, removing approximately 25 metres of damaged track and laying a new spray emulsion walking surface.
"This new surface, which was prepared by a local plant hire contractor and laid by Toolijooa Environmental Restoration, will increase the longevity of this section of the track and help to protect the pristine natural environment of Tomaree National Park.
"We're very pleased to now be at the point where we can safely reopen the Tomaree Head Summit Walk.
"It's perfect timing with the whale migration season getting underway. We encourage everyone heading up to the summit to pack a pair of binoculars and see if you can spot a humpback heading north to warmer waters for the winter," said Mr Bond.
More than 200,000 visitors make the short hike to the summit each year to enjoy the panoramic views of the Port Stephens coastline and soak up the history of the site's World War II gun emplacements.
Visitors are advised to check the NPWS website at Tomaree Head Summit Walk: local alerts for alerts before leaving home.
