Planning and construction is well underway on a number of new walking experiences within the Gardens of Stone State conservation area.
Construction on the 5 km, family-friendly Lost City walking track is approaching the halfway point with the project on track to open in late 2024.
Local crews have been establishing dedicated work zones to protect biodiversity values during construction, with drainage and erosion management at the forefront of the works program. Geotechnical stabilisation works have also been completed, with ecological surveys ongoing to monitor and record fauna and fauna in the valley. Local heritage considerations have been incorporated into the track design to capture the colourful mining history of the area, with Aboriginal cultural heritage to form a key part of visitor interpretations in collaboration with local First Nations people.
Meanwhile, work is set to commence on the Gardens of Stone Multi-Day walk in April, with planning and construction to be delivered in sections to progress the works in stages over two years.
The first stage of works covers the initial 12 km of walking track, following old access trails to showcase woody eucalypt forest, ancient ferned gullies and complex pagoda formations towards the headwaters of Carne Creek.
The first section of works will form part of a 35 km four-day, three-night moderate grade walking track with remote camping facilities and connectivity to short walks within the Gardens of Stone State conservation area.
The Gardens of Stone Multi-Day walk and Lost City walking track are part of a $49.5 million NSW Government visitor infrastructure program to establish Lithgow as an iconic visitor destination.
‘The Gardens of Stone walking tracks program is one of the most significant investments in new track development in NSW.
‘We have a proven track record of excellence in walking track construction and our teams are uniquely positioned to use their collective experience to create iconic new tracks in stunning locations which improve access and amenity of the reserve.
‘This walking tracks program will position Lithgow as an eco-adventure tourism destination and deliver benefits for the broader region.
‘It has been great to be part of such a significant transformation to restore a formerly degraded landscape, protect and preserve biodiversity values, and provide a lasting legacy for visitors, the community and Traditional Owners.’
