FORSTER Beach at Scotts Head is now more accessible than ever, thanks to the installation of a brand-new ramp designed to open up the beach to people of all abilities.
The 20-metre long and 2.4-metre wide ramp provides a smooth and safe path from the foreshore onto the sand, enabling access for people with limited mobility, wheelchair users, and the Macksville Scotts Head Surf Life Saving Club’s all-terrain vehicle (ATV) during high tide.
This collaborative project was jointly funded by the NSW Government, Nambucca Valley Council and Reflections Holidays.
Mayor Gary Lee praised the inclusive infrastructure, describing it as a welcome improvement ahead of the summer season.
“Everyone enjoys relaxing at the beach, and it’s great to see access to Forster Beach is now more inclusive,” Mayor Lee told News Of The Area.
He also highlighted the availability of a publicly accessible beach wheelchair, stored adjacent to the Reflections Holiday Park, further supporting mobility-challenged visitors and locals.
The installation was funded through the NSW Coastal and Estuary Grant Program Implementation Stream, with Reflections Holidays contributing $19,800.
Reflections Holidays CEO Nick Baker said the new ramp would be especially appreciated by those booking the accessible cabin at Reflections Scotts Head.
“Scotts Head is one of our most popular parks for good reason,” said Mr Baker.
“We’re thrilled to have partnered with Council to deliver this valuable asset for the whole community.”
This new ramp is part of a broader suite of coastal access improvements being delivered across the Nambucca Valley through the same grant scheme, which matches Council investment two-to-one.
At North Valla Beach, a causeway was installed to restore natural wetland hydrology, alongside upgrades to the 4WD access track.
At Robert Lowden Reserve, known locally as Humpy’s Access, a deteriorated footbridge was replaced and dune paths were stabilised.
Gregory Street beach access also saw upgrades with a new footbridge, wider footpaths, and dune revegetation.
A scenic accessible lookout was created at the Valla Beach headland, while Middle Beach benefited from new aluminium stairs, recycled handrails, and a fresh access ramp that will reduce foot traffic on fragile dunes.
Nambucca Heads also saw significant coastal works.
At Swimming Creek, old concrete was removed and a stable 4WD track was built with separate access points for vehicles and pedestrians.
At Beilby’s Beach, stormwater runoff is being redirected away from dunes and an upgraded footpath will replace the current low-set ramp.
Wellington Beach will soon feature new dune fencing at the V-Wall end and a raised boardwalk to improve access.
By Mick BIRTLES
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