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School excursion

A local ecosystem at Bonnie Vale

Royal National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Current alerts in this area

Last reviewed: Mon 10 November 2025, 8.43am

Applies from Mon 7 Jul 2025, 8.38am to Fri 19 Dec 2025, 8.43am. Last reviewed: Mon 10 Nov 2025, 8.43am.

Closed areas: Areas closed for deer control program

Some areas in Royal National Park are closed to the public between sunset and sunrise from Monday to Thursday (excluding school holidays) from Monday 7 July 2025 to Friday 19 December 2025 to enable a deer control operation to be carried out.

The closed areas include:

  • All picnic areas in the Audley Precinct
  • Asset protection zones adjacent to Maianbar, Bundeena and East Heathcote.
  • Wattamolla and Garie picnic areas
  • North Era campground and coastal areas between Garie Beach and Figure 8 Pools
  • Garrawarra Farm
  • Lady Carrington Drive
  • Bonnie Vale campground and Bonnie Vale picnic area.

These closures will be signposted at the entry points to the closed areas. If you have a campground booking you can still access campgrounds during these times.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the Royal National Park Visitor Centre on 02 9542 0648.

Nearby alerts

Applies from Tue 19 May 2020, 4.18pm. Last reviewed: Mon 17 Nov 2025, 12.01pm

Closed areas: Closed areas due to rifle range operations

The eastern section of Malabar Headland National Park will be closed on the following dates/times due to ANZAC Rifle Range operations:

  • Every Saturday, 8am to 5pm.
  • The 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, 8am to 5pm.
  • Sunday 14 December - General Shooting Day
  • Monday 15 December 7am to 1pm
  • Tuesday 16 December 7am to 1pm 
  • Shooting will recommence on Saturday 3rd January 2026

 

The eastern section of Malabar Headland National Park will be open on the following dates during the Christmas and the new year period, as the ANZAC Riffle Range will be closed:

  • Sunday 7 December
  • Sunday 21 December
  • Saturday 27 December 2025 to Friday 2 January 2026

 

Do not enter the eastern section of the national park (including Boora Point walking track) when:

  • Red flags are flying above the range
  • The 'rifle range in use' warning signs are displayed at the park entry (South Maroubra Beach and Fishermans Road carpark).
  • Park entry gates are closed.

 

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the NPWS local office on 02 9337 5511 or the ANZAC Rifle Range on 02 9661 4532.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 17 Nov 2025, 8.51am to Mon 1 Dec 2025, 8.52am. Last reviewed: Mon 17 Nov 2025, 8.59am

Closed areas: Track closure - Belvedere Lookout to Beehive Casemate

There will be a partial track closure of Gubbuh Gubbuh to Georges Head walking track between Belvedere Lookout and Beehive Casemate from Monday 17 November to Monday 1 December 2025. Please follow detour signage. For more information please contact the Sydney North Area 02 9960 6266.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Sun 16 Nov 2025, 10.53am. Last reviewed: Fri 14 Nov 2025, 11.01am

Other planned events: Drainage works on North Head Scenic Drive at North Head, Manly

Drainage works will be undertaken along 2 sections of North Head Scenic Drive near the gate at the Quarantine Station entrance for the week commencing on 17 November 2025. The works will be confined to the existing road table drains and will involve removal of silt and other material to maintain the drain capacity and prevent stormwater from flowing out onto the road pavement and damaging the surface. The road will remain open and traffic control will be in place.

Affects 1 park and 5 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Thu 30 Oct 2025, 12.01pm. Last reviewed: Thu 13 Nov 2025, 9.57am

Closed areas: Swimming enclosure damaged, Nielsen Park

The swimming enclosure at Nielsen Park was damaged by large waves in August 2025. Nielsen Park remains open to visitors. However, be aware before swimming at Shark Beach, the damaged swimming enclosure nets do not provide a total barrier between sharks and swimmers.

A new steel support pile will be installed in mid-November. Once installed, the enclosure’s steel cable and netting panels will be re-attached.

For information and resources to help reduce the risk of an encounter with a shark at NSW beaches and estuaries, check out Shark Smart and the Bull Shark fact sheet

For updates, please check here or email or call the local NPWS office on 02 9337 5511.

Affects 1 park and 11 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 10 Nov 2025, 8.40am to Fri 28 Nov 2025, 9.02am. Last reviewed: Wed 12 Nov 2025, 11.46am

Closed areas: Karloo walking track - changes to access

Access to Karloo walking track via Wilsons Parade will be closed from Monday 10 November to Friday 28 November 2025 for trail surface repair works.

Please access Karloo walking track via Bottle Forest Road parking area. From Bottle Forest Road parking area, follow the fire trail and asset protection zone (grassed area) south until you reach the entry to Karloo Pools walking track.

The trail will be open and accessible from both entry points on weekends.

Please be aware of heavy machinery operating on the vehicle trail, stick to the grassed asset protection zone where possible. Please do not enter closed areas. Please follow signage and instructions from NPWS staff and contractors.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office on 02 9542 0632.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 13 Oct 2021, 4.28pm. Last reviewed: Fri 7 Nov 2025, 10.27am

Closed areas: Kurnell Visitor Centre closed

Kurnell Visitor Centre is currently closed and will remain closed until 2026. A new visitor centre is under construction.

During construction works, the precinct, including the carpark, will be fenced off and work crews will be on-site. Access to some walking tracks will be impacted. Please refer to on-site signage.

Parking and toilets are available at the Cricket Pitch and Commemoration flat precincts.

We apologise for any inconvenience.

To learn more about the improvements being made as part of the Kamay 2020 Master Plan Projectemail or call the local area office on 02 9668 2010.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 21 Jul 2025, 6.00am to Tue 30 Dec 2025, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Fri 31 Oct 2025, 2.03pm

Closed areas: Works along Botany Bay Foreshore, Kurnell

A new revetment (seawall) along the Botany Bay foreshore will replace the temporary sandbags which have been in place since 2018. A revetment is a permanent structure which protects the foreshore from storm surges and tides.

A works compound is established at Beach Park and access to the works site will be along Monument Track. Some closures and restrictions to access will take place as materials are moved to the foreshore.

Please be mindful of site fencing and follow instructions from NPWS staff and contractors.

To learn more about the improvements being made as part of the Kamay 2020 Master Plan Project, send an email or call the local area office on 02 9668 2010.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 10 Oct 2025, 2.58pm. Last reviewed: Fri 24 Oct 2025, 5.52pm

Closed areas: Manly to Spit walk upgrade works - Castle Rock

A section of the Manly to Spit walk in the Castle Rock area within Sydney Harbour National Park will be closed for essential upgrade works from 13 October 2025 to 23 December 2025. The work will involve replacement of failing sections of boardwalk and handrails to improve public safety on this popular track. A detour will be in place and signs are installed advising the route.   

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 26 Sep 2025, 8.00am. Last reviewed: Wed 15 Oct 2025, 5.23pm

Other planned events: Access to Kembla mountain bike trails during Harry Graham Drive upgrade

Harry Graham Drive will be partially closed in both directions between Wollongong Motorcycle Club and Kembla Village until mid-late 2026 (weather permitting), to allow Wollongong City Council to carry out essential road maintenance and upgrades.

During this time, the Kembla mountain bike trails can be accessed as follows:

1. From Mount Keira: The main trail car park is open and signposted off Harry Graham Drive. This is the only access point for beginner trails during the roadworks. Visitors should expect some traffic delays.

2. From Kembla Heights: Harry Graham Drive is temporarily closed to all traffic from Kembla Heights. Access is available for blue and black trails only, and a small carpark is

available. For safety and to avoid congestion, riders are asked not to park on the roadside. Beginner trails will be temporarily inaccessible from Kembla Heights during the roadworks. For access to green runs, please use the main trail carpark via Mount Keira Road.

For more information read the City of Wollongong webpage.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 5 Dec 2018, 7.23pm. Last reviewed: Tue 4 Nov 2025, 8.45am

Other planned events: North Head Scenic Drive gate opening times

The North Head Scenic Drive gate opening times are:

  • AEDT From 6 October 2025 to 5 April 2026 - 5am to 8.30pm
  • AEST From 6 April 2026 to 5 October 2026- 6am to 6pm

Affects 1 park and 2 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Wed 31 Mar 2021, 11.53am. Last reviewed: Tue 4 Nov 2025, 8.46am

Closed areas: Bluefish Point closed

The Bluefish Point bushland area is closed for public safety and to protect the landscape and important plant and animal communities.

Access to rock pools is difficult and dangerous. Please stay on sign-posted walking tracks when visiting Sydney Harbour National Park for your safety and observe warning signs in the area.

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Thu 31 Jul 2025, 10.42pm to Sun 1 Feb 2026, 2.42am. Last reviewed: Fri 26 Sep 2025, 4.28pm

Other planned events: ‘1080 pest management operation’

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPEs) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program is continuous and ongoing between 1 August 2025 and 31 January 2026 in the following areas of Sydney Harbour National Park:

  • Chowder Bay
  • Dobroyd Head
  • Bradleys Head
  • Georges Head
  • Middle Head
  • North Head (North Head includes the adjoining land of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, Australian Institute of Police Management and Quarantine Station).

Don’t touch baits or ejector devices. All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Fox baiting in these reserves is aimed at reducing their impact on threatened species.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.

For more information, contact the local park office on:

Middle Head: 02 9960 6266 (business hours)

NPWS after-hours call centre: 1300 056 294 (after hours)

North Head Sanctuary, Many (Harbour Trust Lands): 02 8969 2128 (business hours).

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 26 Sep 2025, 12.31pm. Last reviewed: Fri 26 Sep 2025, 12.39pm

Other planned events: Cawleys Bridge works

Please be advised that Transport for NSW will be undertaking bridge decking maintenance and upgrades to Cawleys Bridge between 29th September 2025 and February 2026.

Cawleys bridge connects Cawleys Road between Heathcote National Park and Garawarra State Conservation Area.

Works will be intermittent during this time.

Vehicle and public access will remain largely unaffected, with select days, being restricted access. Please follow the signs and direction of staff and contractors onsite.

NPWS will post specific information as it becomes available.

Enquiries: Transport for NSW Project Information Line on 1800 684 490.

Affects 2 parks nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 14 Jul 2023, 3.13pm. Last reviewed: Thu 25 Sep 2025, 2.59pm

Closed areas: North Era campground closed

North Era campground is closed until further notice. For more information please contact the local area office on 02 9542 0648.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Tue 19 Nov 2024, 9.56am. Last reviewed: Thu 25 Sep 2025, 10.28am

Closed areas: Skylight Cave permanently closed

Skylight cave is permanently closed to visitors due to serious safety risks. The cave is midway down an unstable cliff, and the risk of falling off the cliff edge while trying to reach it makes it very dangerous. 

There is no approved public access walking track to Skylight cave. Please do not risk your safety trying to reach this location. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 5 Sep 2025, 1.38pm. Last reviewed: Mon 20 Oct 2025, 5.24pm

Safety alerts: Hazardous track conditions - Wodi Wodi Walking Track

Recent heavy rain has created hazardous track conditions on the Wodi Wodi Walking Track between the Forest Walk and Stanwell Park Train Station. The track is currently experiencing erosion, fallen trees and landslips. It is not suitable for most walkers. 

Please consider alternative walking tracks in the area.

Contact the local NPWS Area Office for more information.  

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 25 Aug 2025, 12.20pm. Last reviewed: Mon 25 Aug 2025, 12.35pm

Other planned events: 1080 pest management operation

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a baiting program using manufactured baits, fresh baits and Canid Pest Ejectors (CPEs) containing 1080 poison (sodium fluroacetate) for the control of foxes. The program will take place between 30 August 2025 and 31 March 2026 in Towra Point Nature Reserve.

Don’t touch baits or ejector devices. Penalties apply for non-compliance

All baiting locations are identifiable by signs.

Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW national parks and reserves. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

Fox baiting in these reserves is aimed at reducing their impact on threatened species.

For more information, contact the local park office on:

Sydney South Area 02 9337 5511 (business hours)

NPWS after-hours call centre: 1300 056 294.

Affects 1 park and 2 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 22 Aug 2025, 12.12pm. Last reviewed: Mon 27 Oct 2025, 11.32am

Closed areas: No access to Austinmer via Sublime Point Walking Track

The Forest Walk terminates at Sublime Point due to major upgrades on the Sublime Point Walking Track which is closed from Monday 18 August 2025 to Monday 31 August 2026.

There is no walking access to Austinmer or Austinmer Train Station.  

The upgrade is supported by the NSW and Australian Government’s Infrastructure Betterment Fund to repair and rebuild public assets directly impacted by natural disasters since 2019.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For information on alternative walks, contact the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre on 02 4236 0469.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 18 Aug 2025, 12.00am to Mon 31 Aug 2026, 10.39am. Last reviewed: Wed 13 Aug 2025, 2.26pm

Closed areas: Sublime Point Walking Track closed

The Sublime Point Walking Track is closed for major upgrades from Monday 18 August 2025 to Monday 31 August 2026.

Alternative walking tracks include the Forest Walk, Wodi Wodi Track, Gibson Walking Track, the Woodward Loop Track and the Mount Keira Ring Track.

The upgrade is supported by the NSW and Australian Government’s Infrastructure Betterment Fund to repair and rebuild public assets directly impacted by natural disasters since 2019.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For information on alternative walks, contact the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre on 02 4236 0469.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 7 Jul 2025, 8.38am to Fri 19 Dec 2025, 8.43am. Last reviewed: Mon 10 Nov 2025, 8.43am

Closed areas: Areas closed for deer control program

Some areas in Royal National Park are closed to the public between sunset and sunrise from Monday to Thursday (excluding school holidays) from Monday 7 July 2025 to Friday 19 December 2025 to enable a deer control operation to be carried out.

The closed areas include:

  • All picnic areas in the Audley Precinct
  • Asset protection zones adjacent to Maianbar, Bundeena and East Heathcote.
  • Wattamolla and Garie picnic areas
  • North Era campground and coastal areas between Garie Beach and Figure 8 Pools
  • Garrawarra Farm
  • Lady Carrington Drive
  • Bonnie Vale campground and Bonnie Vale picnic area.

These closures will be signposted at the entry points to the closed areas. If you have a campground booking you can still access campgrounds during these times.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the Royal National Park Visitor Centre on 02 9542 0648.

Affects 1 park and 31 locations nearby. Show list

Applies from Sat 17 Oct 2020, 10.59pm. Last reviewed: Fri 4 Jul 2025, 10.48am

Closed areas: North Head partial closure

Some parts of North Head in Sydney Harbour National Park are closed due to fire damage and geological instability. The closed areas include:

  • Bluefish Point
  • Old Man's Hat
  • Cannae Point
  • Quarantine Head
  • Wastewater Treatment Plant emergency access road

Do not enter the closed areas. Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, please contact the National Parks Contact Centre on 1300 072 757 or Sydney North area office on 02 9451 3479 between 9.30am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Mon 9 Jul 2018, 11.06am. Last reviewed: Sun 21 Sep 2025, 9.30am

Closed areas: Fort Denison closed

Service upgrades and extensive conservation works on the fort are ongoing throughout 2025. Fort Denison – Muddawahnyuh remains closed to visitors during this time.

Standard work hours during the construction phase will be between:

  • 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday
  • 8am to 1pm on Saturday

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, visit the project webpage or email the Sydney South office. Visit the NSW National Parks safety page for park safety guidelines.

Affects 1 park and 1 location nearby. Show list

Applies from Fri 16 May 2025, 4.27pm. Last reviewed: Fri 16 May 2025, 4.35pm

Closed areas: Artillery Track Closed

The Artillery Track of Malabar Headland National Park is closed due to safety concerns.

This closure is necessary to ensure the safety of visitors while we assess and address potential hazards.

 

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office.

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Applies from Thu 2 May 2024, 2.21pm. Last reviewed: Thu 3 Apr 2025, 4.20pm

Safety alerts: Landslide on Auxillary trail- Heathcote National Park

A landslip occurred on an auxillary trail (near Dingo tunnel) off Lower pipeline fire trail in April 2024. Pedestrians and Cyclists are not permitted to pass the landslip.

Authorised Vehicles are not permitted to drive the auxillary trial until further notice.

There are no walking tracks or visitors facilities in this area.

Affects 1 park nearby. Show list

Local alerts

For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/education/stage-6-senior-science-local-ecosystem-bonnie-vale/local-alerts

Park info

  • in Royal National Park in the Sydney and surrounds and South Coast regions
  • Royal National Park is open 7am to 8.30pm but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

  • Park entry fees:

    $12 per vehicle per day. Payment options include Audley Visitor Centre, vehicle entry stations, pay machines and the Park’nPay app.

    Vehicles over 8 seats: $4.40 per adult, $2.20 per child (per day). Teachers/educational supervisors: free (1 adult per 10 students).

    Buy annual pass
See more info for teachers

Emergency services

For all NSW fires visit the Rural Fire Service

For the latest information on wildfires in your area please contact the NSW Rural Fire Service.

View all alerts for NSW

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