Hill 60 improvements in the planning

Image: An artist interpretation of the viewing platform

Wollongong City Council is moving forward on works planned for Hill 60 that are about protecting the site’s significant heritage values while making visiting a more enjoyable experience.

Plans for the site’s first stage of works have been shared here on Council’s website for our community to view.

“After Hill 60 was added to the NSW State Heritage Register, we set to work to develop the Hill 60 Landscape Master Plan for this location,’’ Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“It’s important we got the plan right, and now with a range of approvals in place, we’re able to start phased works on improvements to the area that will protect its significant heritage values while also making the area better for those who visit.’’

The first stage of works focuses on the area best known as the Marine Rescue headland. Already a spot enjoyed by tourists and visitors, it’s anticipated with improvements this area will continue to grow in popularity.

The proposed works include:

• Rebuilding the existing access road and informal carpark to create a new outlook area with better vehicle and pedestrian access
• Creation of new kerbs and equal access footway connections up to the new viewing area
• A large, pedestrian-friendly viewing area, providing expansive views of Fishermans Beach and the Five Islands, paved in high quality concrete with bench seating incorporating pavement art celebrating the heritage of Hill 60
• New safety railings around the viewing area and interpretive signage telling some of the stories of this important site.

“This area is an important site for the Aboriginal community and Council has been working closely for some time with representatives from the community to ensure the proposed works are in keeping with the site’s cultural values and long history,’’ Wollongong City Council General Manager Greg Doyle said.

“We want to improve the site’s safety as it hasn’t seen any formal improvement works for quite some time. But we also want to provide visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history of the site.

“This is why the viewing area will feature interpretive artwork that celebrates the site’s rich Aboriginal heritage as well as artwork that recognises the site’s military history. We’re looking to raise awareness and the profile of the site’s shared history and values.’’

The project is supported by a $500,000 contribution from the NSW Government’s Port Kembla Community Investment Fund.

People can see the plans through the Join the Conversation pages on Council’s website. There is also a FAQ that provides more information about the site’s heritage values and protections and when the works are scheduled to start.

People can register to attend an online meeting at 5pm on 18 July 2023 and an on-site information session at Hill 60 on Saturday 22 July 2023 between 11am and 1pm. All feedback is due by July 31, 2023.

This project is funded by the NSW Government through the Port Kembla Community Investment Fund.