“A Master Plan, developed by an external consultant on behalf of Council, formalises Aliceton Reserve’s transference into a vibrant precinct in line with the Karuah Place Plan deliverables of ‘creating better places and spaces for the community’,” a Port Stephens spokesperson said.

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Following initial community consultation last February-March, the Master Plan attempts to consider multiple community-oriented concepts, including lighted circuit pathways, gym stations, shaded picnic areas, upgraded amenities and sports courts, and formalised car parking.

“The Council’s request for input from the Community, is a wonderful opportunity for the Karuah community to ‘Have a Say’ in their town, as it will offer various upgraded sporting facilities to be used by local sports clubs, schools, and the public as a whole,” Marion Brown from the Karuah Progress Association told NOTA.

“The walking track is a great opportunity for a leisurely walk, or for exercise enthusiasts there is the gym equipment along the way, the enclosed dog park for small and large dogs is a welcome and overdue addition, and toilet facilities, water stations and much needed seating is a bonus – a big thank you to Port Stephens Council for including Karuah in their community projects.”

Karuah RSL General Manager Chris Fraser said the area had been “under-utilised for many years”.

“It’s fantastic to see our community partners, Karuah Pearls Netball Club, finally get somewhere that they can play and train, not to mention the upgrade to Karuah Tennis Club’s amenities,” Mr Fraser added.

“My own child is excited about what the upgraded pump track will look like and getting ready to challenge himself.”

Local Indigenous representative Nathan Jolly has shown support, saying, “Having awesome state-of-the-art play equipment and the welcome possibility of a swimming pool for our community and public school swimming carnivals will positively facilitate our ever growing population.

“The more we have for our youth, the less destructive nature we’ll see from them and, ultimately, spaces like these bring people together and strengthen communities, and there is enough unused space around town to accommodate for these without taking away the town’s natural beauty.”

Residents can provide feedback at https://haveyoursay.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/aliceton-reserve.

By Thomas O’KEEFE