Safer and more enjoyable access to Bellinger River at Mylestom

Mylestom foreshore is now safer and more enjoyable for residents to access the Bellinger River after the NSW Government completed recent upgrades to the area.

$108,000 in improvements to the site near Urunga, which were funded by Crown Lands, included repairs to failing and unsafe areas of the riverbank, provision of additional water access points and seating areas, and creation of fish and fisher-friendly native landscaping.

The upgrades were completed in collaboration with the Soil Conservation Service and have transformed the popular parkland reserve after floods caused large parts of riverbank structures to collapse in recent years.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the upgraded area will benefit locals and support tourism.

“The foreshore at Bellinger River in Mylestom is very popular with locals and tourists alike and it was important to create safe and accessible entry points to the waterway,” Mr Kamper said.

“Visitors and locals can now enjoy the waterway and the reserve with more comfort and peace of mind. It is a great spot to fish or picnic or just enjoy a spectacular sunset over the mountains.”

The foreshore was previously constructed using concrete column structures installed in 1968, causing erosion over time. The new works have been completed using sandstone blocks in a small horizontal rise to reduce the effect on seagrass and river tides, as well as the inclusion of small rocks to dissipate wave energy.

The native landscaping provides a mix of shade, bank stability and habitat while still allowing easy access to the water for residents and visitors.

The upgrades have made the reserve more visually appealing with natural vegetation and added trees which will eventually create areas of shade.

Bellinger River is a local gem and fishing hotspot with the river home to bream, flathead, whiting, jewfish and trevally all year round. At the right time of the year, fishermen have reported dolphin pods swimming through the river.

A short walk from the foreshore gives families the chance to enjoy the town of Mylestom, including a swim at North Beach, a bite at a local restaurant and stay at Reflections Mylestom Holiday Park nestled in between the ocean and river.