NATUREFEST has had a huge impact on Port Stephens, with the event spanning six weeks celebrating the natural assets of our region.

Just some of the highlights of the event have been Koala Gala where hundreds gathered to see the animation depicting the need for koalas to migrate due to dwindling habitat which was developed using art from the primary schools on Tomaree Peninsula.

Hundreds of people have gotten their Whale On and spotted lots of whales as they migrate north to warmer waters.

We have seen spooky tours of the Tomaree Headland gun emplacements, rambles through the rock pools at Boat Harbour and an amazing human koala at Tilligerry Habitat.
The human koala was created by Mark McDougall of local business Northpoint Surveys who created the original festival human koala and whale designs and survey.

Locals alongside Australian and international tourists have stood on headlands watching whales go by.

Hundreds of photos have been taken for the Shutterfest competition and thousands more are on cameras, phones and social media.

Free music performances and education have all played a part in the festival which has created a huge awareness of the unique environment of Port Stephens for locals and our visitors.

Danny Eather of Destination Port Stephens told News Of The Area, “Naturefest has proven to be another great success with many local businesses and community groups coming together to deliver a strong program of events.”

“The aim of Naturefest has always been to celebrate and promote the region as one of NSW’s premier nature destinations not only to local residents but importantly to our many visitors that choose to enjoy a short break in Port Stephens during the low-season.”

“It is important that events like Naturefest happen each year in order to showcase that we are truly an all year round destination, not just a summer destination, and I feel that we have delivered upon this with great success,” he said.

 

By Marian SAMPSON