Have your say on Hooka Point footbridge and jetty refurbishment

We’re asking residents for feedback on planned refurbishment works for the footbridge and jetty at Berkeley’s Hooka Point.

The popular Hooka Point footbridge and jetty needs work to its ageing timber deck to ensure it’s stable and safe for our community to enjoy. The construction is planned to start mid- 2022 and will take around three months to complete.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said this is a culturally significant area and its preservation is important to our community and our city’s history.

“The site incorporates both Indigenous and non-Indigenous concepts of healing and wellbeing which provide a unique and safe environment for our community to connect. These works are essential to make sure our residents can enjoy their visits safely,” Cr Bradbery said.

The carved handrail, sandstone pillars engraved with Aboriginal poetry, bench and timber seats at the site will all be retained. However, due to the upgrades, the artwork located on the bridge decking needs to be removed. The lead artists have been in conversations around this.

“Hooka Point is a culturally significant area for Aboriginal communities. We’ve spoken with the Traditional Owners and lead artists, and encourage any community members that may be aware of matters we should know about, to let us know ahead of these works. A review of environmental factors has also been undertaken to protect and preserve the surroundings of the area.” Cr Bradbery said.

You can find more information on the history of the area, the planned upgrades and share your feedback on Our Wollongong website.

Share your feedback before Monday 1 November 2021.