The Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track (FAST) at Lake Macquarie is nearing completion, opening up an uninterrupted 27 kilometre continuous active transport route for walkers, runners and cyclists from Murrays Beach to Adamstown.
Four years in the making, the upgrades fill a missing gap of shared pathway between Blacksmiths and the existing Fernleigh Track, when complete it will be the longest active transport route in the Hunter region.
The final works include an elevated accessible boardwalk along Belmont Lagoon, accessible amenities, upgrades to three local bus stops, and public art installations, crafted by Aboriginal artists, telling of the local Awabakal people and their relationship with the environment.
The project was made possible through $1.15 million in funding from the Australian Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants Program, $8.92 million from the NSW Government, and $12.82 million from Lake Macquarie City Council.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt:
“Bushfire recovery takes time, so it brings me great pleasure to know that this track is nearing completion and will support the Hunter community to continue to heal from a devastating time in their lives.
“These grants assist recovery efforts of communities and I thank our NSW colleagues for working with the Australian Government to deliver an incredible result for the community.”
NSW Premier Chris Minns:
“The new track will provide locals and tourists alike with some of the best views in Lake Macquarie while promoting an active lifestyle.
“This shared track will be a great addition to the Lake Macquarie area as well as a tourism drawcard for cyclists and fitness-minded visitors.”
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:
“It’s great to see the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track nearing completion for the Hunter community to enjoy, creating a safe place for pedestrians and cyclists to get outdoors and exercise.
“The NSW Government is committed to community infrastructure upgrades that support the health and wellbeing of communities that live in regional NSW.”
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley:
“This track is the longest shared walking and cycling route in the Hunter region and provides potential for the area to host a wide variety of sporting and fitness events, such as marathons.
“The track is also an opportunity for us to showcase the incredible scenery of the area, which was previously hidden, helping put Lake Macquarie on the map.
“Enjoying the outdoors is such an important part of life in the Hunter, and this will make it even better for the people who live here.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison:
“Shared pathways are vital for healthy lifestyles and enhancing regional tourism opportunities.
“I remember walking the first section of the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track with my family in the early 2000’s. It’s great to be here for the completion of the 27km continuous active transport link from Murrays Beach to Adamstown.”
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser:
“The track’s centrepiece is a 400m stretch of elevated boardwalk over wetlands next to Belmont Lagoon – the focal point of the Aboriginal creation story known as ‘When the Moon Cried’, and one of the region’s best spots for birdwatching.
“We are blessed with so many beautiful places here in Lake Mac, but Belmont Lagoon is up there with the best of them – until now, it’s been a bit of a hidden gem, but the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track provides a very low impact means of shedding light on this natural and cultural wonder.
“It also contributes to our ongoing push to promote tourism and active transport in Lake Mac and expand our city’s network of family-friendly shared pathways.”