The Wollumbin Summit and Track are to be closed to the public until halfway through 2027.
The NSW government announced the closure’s extension via a statement from the environment minister, Penny Sharpe, on Christmas Eve.
The statement includes a ‘view to reopening the summit once practical safety and culturally appropriate options are resolved’.
The track and summit were initially closed during the pandemic to address public safety risks, the government says, and allow for consultation with the Aboriginal community and other stakeholders about future management of the site.
Some locals and visitors have complained about the decision on social media and the Nationals used the issue as a campaign matter in this year’s federal election, with the Richmond candidate promising to reopen the track.
But the issue failed to generate enough interest for the party to win the seat.
Ms Sharpe’s statement says she continued constructive discussions with a wide range of stakeholders over the past year, including with user groups, councils, the Wollumbin Consultative Group and other community members.
‘These conversations highlighted Wollumbin’s significance to Aboriginal communities and the wider public,’ Ms Sharpe says.
‘I understand extending the temporary closure will disappoint some visitors,’ the minister says, ‘however, a number of practical challenges – such as ensuring safe access – must still be addressed’.
The state government says the extra closure time until 30 June 2027 will allow for creation of ‘a clear plan for the future of this special place, that respects cultural responsibilities and safeguards visitor safety’.
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