Office established and staff recruited for Tomaree Lodge progress Port POPUP - DAupdate Port Stephens by News Of The Area - Modern Media - March 7, 2025 A NEW on-site office has been established at Tomaree Lodge, with two site officers recruited to staff it. Located near the site’s entrance in Cottage 11, the officers will oversee operations, enhance community safety and support visitors. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au They will officially take up their roles in March 2025. The office will also serve as a hub for keeping the community informed about the latest developments for Tomaree Lodge. “The new on-site office and dedicated staff will provide a stronger presence at Tomaree Lodge, improving safety, supporting visitors, and keeping locals informed as planning progresses,” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said. “I look forward to continuing to work closely with the community to secure the best possible future for this treasured site.” Mayor of Port Stephens and chair of the Tomaree Lodge Community Engagement Committee, Leah Anderson said having a dedicated on-site presence will help ensure the site is “safe, welcoming, and well cared for”. “I’m proud to be working with our community and the NSW Government to help shape a plan that reflects local priorities and protects this iconic place for generations to come.” In a statement to media last week, the NSW Government said it “remains committed to repurposing the site for public use and recreation while respecting its cultural history and environmental significance”. Late last year, six local Port Stephens residents were appointed to provide a community voice to the NSW Government Steering Committee throughout the development of the master plan for the site. The Steering Committee includes representatives from the Department of Communities and Justice, National Parks and Wildlife Services, Create NSW, Department of Planning, Housing & Infrastructure and NSW Fisheries, along with Port Stephens Council. Local planning firm SHAC has been commissioned to lead the concept master planning of the site.
