NPWS incapable of managing Mt Warning

Reply from NPWS to an enquiry I submitted back in January.... It's now over SIX YEARS since the closure and they say they still need more time! Absolutely no regard from NPWS for the loss of income to local businesses or lost opportunities for the public to enjoy the wonders of the summit experience.

In my view the walk is safe for experienced walkers in its current condition. NPWS are incapable of effectively managing Mt Warning and control should be handed over to a local board that includes local businesses and the bush walking community.

Please let Minister Sharpe know how you feel... office@sharpe.minister.nsw.gov.au

Dear Mr Hendrickx

I refer to your email of 12 January 2026 to the Minister for Climate Change, Minister for Energy, Minister for the Environment and Minister for Heritage, the Hon Penny Sharpe MLC, regarding the Wollumbin (Mount Warning) summit track. Your email was referred to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) for reply.

As you are aware, the closure of the Wollumbin summit and track has been extended until 30 June 2027 to enable the consideration of practically safe and culturally appropriate options for reopening.

Constructive discussions have been undertaken with a wide range of stakeholders, including user groups, councils, the Wollumbin Consultative Group and other community members. These conversations highlighted Wollumbin’s significance to Aboriginal communities and the wider public.

Currently the Wollumbin summit track is not safe for public use. The previous chain and post infrastructure has been removed because it had reached end of life and posed a risk to visitor safety. Without installing new infrastructure, the summit track poses a significant safety risk to members of the public.

The extended temporary closure will enable the consideration of practically safe and culturally appropriate options for reopening. NPWS will continue to provide clear signage and education about the cultural significance of the site and risks to safety to inform visitors about the closure of the summit track and encourage ongoing compliance.

Several practical challenges, such as ensuring safe access, must still be addressed. Extending the temporary closure will provide additional time and help us create a clear plan for the future of this special place which respects cultural responsibilities and safeguards visitor safety.

Further information about Wollumbin National Park is available at: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/parks-reserves-and-protected-areas/park-management/community-engagement/wollumbin-national-park.

Russell Madeley

Director North Coast

National Parks and Wildlife Service

Comments

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