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Pulbah Island Nature Reserve

Current alerts in this area

Last reviewed: Mon 19 January 2026, 12.01pm

Applies from Mon 22 Dec 2025, 11.06am to Fri 30 Jan 2026, 4.00pm. Last reviewed: Mon 19 Jan 2026, 12.01pm.

Fire bans: National Park Reserves in Central Coast

A park fire ban is in place in this park and remains in effect unless otherwise extended or removed. During park fire ban periods, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are prohibited. Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as:

  • They're under direct control of an adult
  • The ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials
  • There's an adequate supply of water (minimum of a bucket)

If a Total Fire Ban is in place, different rules apply. Contact the local park office before bringing a gas or electric barbecue or cooker.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information about fire bans in parks and reserves including your responsibilities, visit the NSW National Parks fire safety page.

Applies from Mon 22 Dec 2025, 11.14am to Fri 30 Jan 2026, 4.00pm. Last reviewed: Tue 13 Jan 2026, 9.50am.

Fire bans: National Park Reserves in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie LGAs

A park fire ban is in place in this park and remains in effect unless otherwise extended or removed. During park fire ban periods, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are prohibited. Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as:

  • They're under direct control of an adult
  • The ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials
  • There's an adequate supply of water (minimum of a bucket)

If a Total Fire Ban is in place, different rules apply. Contact the local park office before bringing a gas or electric barbecue or cooker.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information about fire bans in parks and reserves including your responsibilities, visit the NSW National Parks fire safety page.

Nearby alerts

Applies from Mon 19 Jan 2026, 2.18pm to Tue 31 Mar 2026, 2.18pm. Last reviewed: Mon 19 Jan 2026, 2.29pm

Other planned events: Yambo Forest and Lemon Tree trail closures

There will be no vehicle access through Jilliby State Conservation Area via Yambo Forest and Lemon Tree roads from Tue 27 January to end February 2026. These trails are being upgraded to meet current RFS fire trail standards which will improve fire protection for the community. Vehicles may still use Watagan Forest Rd for access. 

For more information, call the Munmorah NPWS office 02 4972 9000 or email the team on assets.hcb@dcceew.nsw.gov.au. 

Applies from Sun 18 Jan 2026, 1.22pm. Last reviewed: Mon 19 Jan 2026, 12.22pm

Closed areas: Area closed due to water damage - Somersby Falls Precinct

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Somersby Falls precinct, including the picnic area, walking track, and falls, is closed until further notice due to extensive water damage to Somersby Falls Road.

Central Coast Council has closed Somersby Falls Road at the Howes Road intersection because the damaged road surface is unsafe for vehicles. 

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

Applies from Mon 19 Jan 2026, 8.44am to Wed 21 Jan 2026, 9.00am. Last reviewed: Mon 19 Jan 2026, 8.53am

Closed areas: Mill Creek Visitor Precinct Closed due to Flooding

The following areas are closed until 9am Wednesday 21st January due to flooding:

  • Mill Creek Campground
  • Mill Creek Picnic Area
  • Grass Tree Circuit
  • 11km Walking Track
     

Remember, it’s never safe to drive, ride or walk through flood waters, so you’ll need to reschedule your visit and avoid travel through areas in this park. Check Live Traffic NSW for up-to-date information about road closures. For assistance during severe weather visit the NSW SES website. In life-threatening situations call emergency services on Triple Zero (000).

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the Wollemi Yengo Area office on 02 6574 5555.

 

Applies from Thu 15 Jan 2026, 8.39am to Fri 23 Jan 2026, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Thu 15 Jan 2026, 9.09am

Closed areas: Aubs Ridge Road Sugarloaf SCA

Aubs Ridge Road in Sugarloaf State Conservation Area will be closed for maintenance from Wednesday 14th January 2026 until Friday 23rd January 2026

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office (02) 4946 4100

Applies from Mon 24 Nov 2025, 7.00am to Fri 27 Feb 2026, 12.00am. Last reviewed: Wed 14 Jan 2026, 1.25pm

Closed areas: Area closed for conservation works

Some parts of this park are closed from Monday 24 November to Friday 27 February 2026 while conservation works are being undertaken on Devines Hill. The closed areas are:

  • Devines Hill section of the Old Great North Walk (from Settlers Road to Shepherds Gully Road).

Penalties apply for non-compliance. Signage installed on closed section. For more information, contact the Wollemi - Yengo Area Office - (02) 6574 5555.

Applies from Tue 13 Jan 2026, 1.14pm to Fri 6 Feb 2026, 1.14pm. Last reviewed: Tue 13 Jan 2026, 1.26pm

Other planned events: Vegetation works on Finchs Line Road, Old Great North Road and Shepherds Gully Road

Vegetation works will be underway on Finchs Line Road, Shepherds Gully Road and the Old Great North Road (from the intersection of Finchs Line Road to the intersection of Three Mile Trail) from Tuesday 13 January to Friday 6 February 2026. Ride/walk safely and follow the directions of roadwork signs and NPWS staff.

 

For more information, contact the Wollemi-Yengo Area Office on (02) 6574 5555.

Applies from Sat 6 Dec 2025, 4.23pm. Last reviewed: Mon 19 Jan 2026, 12.01pm

Closed areas: Areas closed due to bushfire damage

The section of the park south of Bambara Road, east of Woy Woy Road and north of Brisbane Water is closed due to recent bushfire impacts. Closed areas include:

  • Koolewong Fire Trail
  • All informal access tracks off Glenrock Parade, Koolewong
  • All  tracks and trails leading from Woy Woy Bay, Waterfall Bay and Parks Bay into the park

The area will reopen after risk assessments and mitigation works are complete.

Do not enter the closed areas - Penalties apply for non-compliance

Applies from Mon 22 Dec 2025, 11.06am to Fri 30 Jan 2026, 4.00pm. Last reviewed: Mon 19 Jan 2026, 12.01pm

Fire bans: National Park Reserves in Central Coast

A park fire ban is in place in this park and remains in effect unless otherwise extended or removed. During park fire ban periods, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are prohibited. Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as:

  • They're under direct control of an adult
  • The ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials
  • There's an adequate supply of water (minimum of a bucket)

If a Total Fire Ban is in place, different rules apply. Contact the local park office before bringing a gas or electric barbecue or cooker.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information about fire bans in parks and reserves including your responsibilities, visit the NSW National Parks fire safety page.

Applies from Mon 22 Dec 2025, 11.18am to Fri 30 Jan 2026, 4.00pm. Last reviewed: Tue 13 Jan 2026, 9.51am

Fire bans: Werakata National Park and State Conservation Area

A park fire ban is in place in this park and remains in effect unless otherwise extended or removed. During park fire ban periods, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are prohibited. Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as:

  • They're under direct control of an adult
  • The ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials
  • There's an adequate supply of water (minimum of a bucket)

If a Total Fire Ban is in place, different rules apply. Contact the local park office before bringing a gas or electric barbecue or cooker.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information about fire bans in parks and reserves including your responsibilities, visit the NSW National Parks fire safety page.

Applies from Mon 22 Dec 2025, 11.14am to Fri 30 Jan 2026, 4.00pm. Last reviewed: Tue 13 Jan 2026, 9.50am

Fire bans: National Park Reserves in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie LGAs

A park fire ban is in place in this park and remains in effect unless otherwise extended or removed. During park fire ban periods, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are prohibited. Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as:

  • They're under direct control of an adult
  • The ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials
  • There's an adequate supply of water (minimum of a bucket)

If a Total Fire Ban is in place, different rules apply. Contact the local park office before bringing a gas or electric barbecue or cooker.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information about fire bans in parks and reserves including your responsibilities, visit the NSW National Parks fire safety page.

Applies from Mon 22 Dec 2025, 10.53am to Sat 31 Jan 2026, 10.55am. Last reviewed: Mon 12 Jan 2026, 8.54am

Fire bans: Park Fire Ban: Hunter Coast National Parks and Reserves

A park fire ban is in place in this park and remains in effect unless otherwise extended or removed. The only location that is exempt is Ganyamalbaa Campground in Worimi National Park - fires are permitted here (unless Total Fire Ban) within the fire pits only. During park fire ban periods, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are prohibited. Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as:

  • They're under direct control of an adult
  • The ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials
  • There's an adequate supply of water (minimum of a bucket)

If a Total Fire Ban is in place, different rules apply. Contact the local park office before bringing a gas or electric barbecue or cooker.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information about fire bans in parks and reserves including your responsibilities, visit the NSW National Parks fire safety page.

Applies from Wed 17 Dec 2025, 10.43am to Fri 30 Jan 2026, 10.43am. Last reviewed: Mon 12 Jan 2026, 8.54am

Safety alerts: Worimi Conservation Lands - Drive with caution

Due to current coastal conditions, please drive with caution on Worimi Conservation Lands.

Please note:

  • Look out for soft sand, erosion, wash outs and drop offs.
  • Avoid driving through sea water or large pools of water. Driving conditions can change rapidly. Several vehicles on this beach have ended up in the ocean or swamped by water.
  • If in doubt turn around and back track on the route you've driven, to exit the park.
  • Check conditions before arriving, and if in doubt save your visit for another day.
  • Do not drive over the frontal dune or any vegetation. Fines apply.

Staff will monitor conditions.

For more information contact the NPWS office at Nelson Bay on 02 4984 8200, during business hours, 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.

Applies from Mon 15 Dec 2025, 9.00am. Last reviewed: Mon 12 Jan 2026, 8.39am

Other planned events: Planned road repair works for Bangalow Road

Planned road repair works will recommence on 27th January 2026 until late March 2026. Heavy plant and machinery will be operating along Bangalow Road. 

Areas that will be closed during these works include:

  • Bangalow Campground and Day use area
  • Gap Creek Campground and Day use area
  • Gap Creek Falls Walking Track

During this time, pedestrian and vehicle access is not permitted.

There will be no available campground bookings during this time. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

For further information, please contact the NPWS Munmorah office on (02) 4972 9000.

Applies from Fri 12 Dec 2025, 3.34pm. Last reviewed: Tue 13 Jan 2026, 9.38am

Closed areas: Heaton Road Access from Watagans Road Closed Due to Landslip and Rockfall

Heaton Road Access from Watagans Road is closed as it is no longer suitable for 2WD or 4WD vehicles due to risk of landslip and rockfall. This affects access from Watagans National Park to Quorrobolong.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.

For further information, please contact NPWS Munmorah office on (02) 4972 9000.

Applies from Fri 12 Dec 2025, 9.56am to Tue 31 Mar 2026, 9.57am. Last reviewed: Tue 13 Jan 2026, 8.23am

Safety alerts: Worimi Beach Is Unsafe for Swimming

Worimi beach is not suitable for swimming due to hazardous surf conditions. 

  • Beaches in this park are not patrolled by lifeguards and can have strong rips and currents.
  • The safest place to swim is at a patrolled beach, between the red and yellow flags.
  • Check the Beachsafe website to find the nearest patrolled beaches- Birubi Beach at Anna Bay is the nearest lifeguard patrolled beach.

These beach safety tips will help you and your family stay safe in the water.

For more information, contact the local NPWS -Anna Bay office 02 4984 8200.

Applies from Wed 1 Oct 2025, 9.12am to Tue 31 Mar 2026, 11.59pm. Last reviewed: Fri 17 Oct 2025, 9.16am

Fire bans: Park Fire Ban - Wollemi-Yengo Reserves

A park fire ban is in place in this park and remains in effect unless otherwise extended or removed. During park fire ban periods, all campfire and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are prohibited. Gas and electric barbecues and cookers are permitted as long as:

  • They're under direct control of an adult
  • The ground within 2m of the barbecue is cleared of all flammable materials
  • There's an adequate supply of water (minimum of a bucket)

However the following campgrounds are exempt:

Dharug National Park

  • Mill Creek Campground

Mount Royal National Park

  • Youngville Campground

Yengo National Park

  • Blue Gums Campground
  • Mountain Arm Campground
  • Yengo House
  • Finchley Campground
  • Mogo Campground

If a Total Fire Ban is in place, different rules apply. Contact the local park office before bringing a gas or electric barbecue or cooker.
Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information about fire bans in parks and reserves including your responsibilities, visit the NSW National Parks fire safety page.

Applies from Fri 10 Oct 2025, 10.26am to Tue 31 Mar 2026, 11.00am. Last reviewed: Mon 12 Jan 2026, 8.39am

Other planned events: Closed areas: Watagans National Park partial closure for ground shooting for feral animal control

Areas within Watagans National Park may be intermittently closed from 5pm to 5am between Monday 27 October 2025 to Tuesday 31 March 2026 for ground shooting for feral animal control.

 

Areas will be closed by signage. Do Not Enter. Penalties apply

Applies from Wed 1 Oct 2025, 11.50am. Last reviewed: Mon 12 Jan 2026, 8.39am

Closed areas: Monkey Face Road planned maintenance

Planned maintenance and repairs is scheduled along Monkey Face Road. The areas below that are accessible via Monkey Face Road will be closed during the following dates: 

  • Monkey Face Lookout closed 10 October 2025 - late February 2026
  • Gap Creek Lookout closed 12 January 2026 - late February 2026

Heavy plant and machinery will be operating during this time. Pedestrian and vehicle access is not permitted. Penalties apply for non-compliance.

For more information, contact the NPWS Central Coast Area Office on (02) 4972 9000.

Applies from Fri 26 Sep 2025, 3.14pm to Sat 24 Jan 2026, 3.14pm. Last reviewed: Mon 5 Jan 2026, 11.02am

Other planned events: Notice of 1080 program

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting a ground baiting program in Hunter Wetlands National Park from 30 September to 24 December 2025.

The operation will use 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) poison for the control of foxes.

The program is designed to minimise predator impacts on wildlife, especially threatened shorebird species.

Signs will be placed at the entry to the baiting location. Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW National Parks managed lands. 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.

For more information contact the Lower Hunter Area NPWS office on 4946 4100.

Applies from Wed 24 Sep 2025, 2.26pm. Last reviewed: Sun 28 Dec 2025, 11.04am

Safety alerts: Road Maintenance

Fire trail maintenance works are undertaken periodically, at various locations throughout Jilliby State Conservation Area. Partial and intermittent closures should be expected. Please follow the directions of any construction staff onsite and safety signage.

Take care and drive to conditions.

 

For more information, contact the local NPWS office on 02 49729000

Applies from Thu 4 Sep 2025, 3.10pm to Tue 30 Jun 2026, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Mon 5 Jan 2026, 11.03am

Closed areas: Tomago precinct: intermittent closures for feral animal control (ground shooting)

On selected nights between 4 September 2025 and 30 June 2026, the Tomago precinct of Hunter Wetlands National Park will be closed for ground shooting operations targeting feral deer. When operations are active, affected areas will be signposted “Do not enter.”

Other feral animals, including rabbits and foxes, will be targeted if observed during the operations.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local park office on 02 4946 4100 or email npws.lowerhunter@environment.nsw.gov.au.

Applies from Sun 31 Aug 2025, 4.52pm to Tue 30 Jun 2026, 4.53pm. Last reviewed: Tue 13 Jan 2026, 9.52am

Safety alerts: Yuelarbah Walking Track - Surface damage, proceed with caution

Sections of Yuelarbah Walking Track are subject to surface damage due to the recent wet weather. The trail is muddy and slippery. Take care and proceed with caution. 

For more information, contact the Lower Hunter Area Office 02 4946 4100.

Applies from Fri 19 Jul 2024, 10.21am to Tue 30 Jun 2026, 10.21am. Last reviewed: Sat 1 Nov 2025, 10.44am

Closed areas: Gap Creek Forest Walk partially closed due to rockfall risk

Gap Creek Forest Walk is part closed due to the risk of landslip and rockfall.

Penalties apply for non-compliance.

For more information, contact NPWS Central Coast office on 02 4972 9000

Applies from Fri 25 Jul 2025, 5.26pm. Last reviewed: Fri 25 Jul 2025, 5.28pm

Closed areas: Closed areas: Werakata State Conservation Area partial closure for ground shooting for feral animal control

Small areas within Werakata State Conservation Area may be intermittently closed from 5pm to 5am between Monday 21 July 2025 to Friday 11 September 2026 for ground shooting for feral animal control.

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

Applies from Mon 21 Jul 2025, 5.00pm. Last reviewed: Tue 13 Jan 2026, 9.48am

Closed areas: Werakata National Park partial closure for ground shooting for feral animal control

Small areas within Werakata National Park may be intermittently closed from 5pm to 5am between Monday 21 July 2025 to Friday 11 September 2026 for ground shooting for feral animal control.

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

Applies from Tue 8 Apr 2025, 12.00pm to Tue 30 Jun 2026, 6.00pm. Last reviewed: Tue 18 Nov 2025, 10.51am

Closed areas: Partial closure Piles Creek Loop Walking Track

Part of Piles Creek Loop Walking Track will be closed until 30 June 2026 while rockfall investigations and mitigation works are undertaken.

The closed area is between the suspension bridge and Bundilla Lookout on the western side of Piles Creek.

Areas that will remain open are:

  • Piles Creek Loop Walking Track on the eastern side of Piles Creek 
  • Access to the Great North Walk from Girrakool Picnic Area 
  • Bundilla Lookout 

Barriers and signage are in place around the closed area.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS office on 02 4320 4200.

 

Applies from Thu 3 Jul 2025, 11.38am to Tue 30 Jun 2026, 11.44am. Last reviewed: Mon 12 Jan 2026, 8.39am

Closed areas: Rope Road and Click Creek Fire Trail closed due to road conditions

Rope Road and Click Creek Fire Trails are temporarily closed as it is not suitable for 2WD or 4WD vehicles. The areas will reopen as soon as they are considered safe. To prevent further damage to the road and to protect visitor safety, please avoid these areas and other trails within the reserve that are potentially hazardous.

Penalties apply for non-compliance

Applies from Sun 11 May 2025, 5.51pm to Fri 27 Feb 2026, 5.51pm. Last reviewed: Tue 17 Jun 2025, 8.52am

Safety alerts: Major roadworks in Sugarloaf State Conservation Area

Major roadworks are ongoing in Sugarloaf State Conservation Area. Partial and intermittent road closures should be expected.

Visitors are asked to avoid the area (if possible). Otherwise, please be aware of trucks and machinery working on roads within Sugarloaf SCA and to drive to the conditions.

For more information, please contact the NPWS Lower Hunter Area Office on 02 4946 4100.

Applies from Thu 1 May 2025, 9.27am. Last reviewed: Wed 5 Nov 2025, 2.25pm

Closed areas: The Welcome Mangrove Walk, Ash Island is closed due to damage

The Welcome Mangrove Walk of Ash Island, Hunter Wetlands NP is closed due to damage, from Monday 26th August until further notice.

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the local NPWS Shortland office on 4946 4100.

Applies from Tue 28 Jan 2025, 9.22am to Wed 7 Apr 2027, 9.23am. Last reviewed: Thu 6 Nov 2025, 2.04pm

Closed areas: Pink Caves - closed to the public

Pink Caves are closed to visitors because they are extremely unsafe to visit.

The caves are filled with water at high tide. Even at low tide they can be dangerous, as the ocean swell sends unpredictable waves sweeping into the caves and across the rock shelf. Sudden rogue waves can cause serious injury and may drag visitors across the rocks or out to sea.

There is no lifeguard service in this area and access for emergency services is limited. There’s no approved walking track to this location. Access to the caves involves walking over a rock shelf which is slippery, uneven and dangerous.

Visitors should take care when traversing all rock shelves and coastal areas located within Munmorah State Conservation Area.

For further information call the NPWS Local Area office on 02 4972 9000.

Applies from Mon 7 Nov 2022, 3.08pm. Last reviewed: Mon 15 Dec 2025, 11.20am

Closed areas: Timber Beach and Timber Beach walking track are CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC

Timber Beach walking track is permanently CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC. This area has high coastal risks and is extremely hazardous. This closure is in place to keep the public safe. 

Penalties apply for non-compliance. For further information, please contact the local NPWS office on 49729000

Applies from Wed 8 Mar 2023, 9.09am. Last reviewed: Sat 15 Nov 2025, 9.54am

Closed areas: Muirs Lookout Picnic Area - Closed

Muirs Lookout Picnic Area on Prickly Ridge Road has been closed due to ageing infrastructure, obstructed lookout views to the coast and very low public visitation. Alternative picnic facilities are located nearby in Olney State Forest and Watagans National Park. Further information on other places to visit can be obtained via the NPWS or Forestry Corporation websites. 

Applies from Tue 21 May 2024, 11.41am. Last reviewed: Mon 5 Jan 2026, 9.07am

Closed areas: Warrah Trig Road closed to vehicles

Warrah Trig Road is closed to vehicles due to an increase in illegal activities throughout the area.

The road will remain closed until investigations are completed and further recommendations are made.

The road is open to pedestrians and cyclists.

 

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

Applies from Thu 29 Feb 2024, 11.44am. Last reviewed: Fri 16 Jan 2026, 7.40am

Other planned events: Temporary access closures to trails at Middle Camp - Catherine Hill Bay - Munmorah State Conservation Area for external developer construction works.

Middle Camp DA/2238/2017 - has begun works in the Catherine Hill Bay area adjacent to lands managed by Munmorah State Conservation Area. These works due to the location now has temporary closures to access trails for Munmorah SCA. This is necessary for the contractor managing this development in order to maintain a safe construction site and public safety.

NPWS apologises for the inconvenience and are unable to provide alternate access.

This temporary closure affects: 

  1. Collier fire trail
  2. Powerline fire trail and 
  3. Middle Camp fire trail

Please be advised that these closures will not stop access to fire vehicles in emergencies and does not cause a safety concern.

For more information, contact the local NPWS office on 4972 9000.

 

Applies from Wed 13 Apr 2022, 10.37am. Last reviewed: Sat 15 Nov 2025, 9.55am

Safety alerts: Prickly Ridge Road 4WD only

The section of Prickly Ridge Road between Watagan Forest Road and Cut-Rock Road is suitable for 4WD vehicles only.

To prevent further damage to the road and to protect visitor safety, please avoid this area and other trails in the reserve that are still slippery and potentially hazardous.  

For further information, please contact the Central Coast Area Office at Lake Munmorah on 02 4972 9000.

Applies from Tue 7 Oct 2014, 1.53pm to Thu 7 Oct 2027, 11.00am. Last reviewed: Mon 20 Oct 2025, 10.03am

Closed areas: Parts of Sugarloaf State Conservation Area closed

Parts of Sugarloaf State Conservation Area are closed for approved underground mining operations. The affected areas (see map) have been closed to protect visitor safety, because they're subject to subsidence and remediation activities from the mining operations.

Great North walk remains open. An update will be provided should this situation change.

If you're visiting the park, please be aware of subsidence and pollution incidents that took place in 2013, which were greater than what was expected from normal mining operations. These included a cliff fall in the north, and a subsidence and grout leak incident in the central part of Sugarloaf State Conservation Area.

If you're planning to visit the park during this time, please stay on formed tracks and trails and observe all barriers, warning signs and safety messages. Areas subject to possible cliff fall or subsidence in both areas of the park are clearly marked.

For more information, call the NPWS Lower Hunter area office on 02 4946 4100. NSW National Parks safety page.

Applies from Wed 3 Aug 2022, 10.43am. Last reviewed: Tue 6 Jan 2026, 9.06am

Safety alerts: Rock fishing safety

Rock fishing is a popular activity for many national park visitors and your safety whilst fishing is important. Parts of the NSW Central Coast are a declared high risk area due to large swells and hazardous surf conditions. In these high risk areas under the NSW Rock Fishing Safety Act 2016, you are required by law to wear an appropriate life jacket. This includes children and anyone helping you fish. This is regulated by NSW Fisheries and poses an on the spot $100 fine if non-compliant.

Before rock fishing you should always:

Stay safe, always watch the local conditions, never turn your back on the ocean and never fish alone.

If you’re in doubt don’t go out.

Applies from Wed 3 Aug 2022, 12.57pm. Last reviewed: Tue 28 Oct 2025, 3.07pm

Safety alerts: Rock fishing safety

Rock fishing is a popular activity for many national park visitors and your safety whilst fishing is important. Parts of the NSW Central Coast are a declared high risk area due to large swells and hazardous surf conditions. In these high risk areas under the NSW Rock Fishing Safety Act 2016, you are required by law to wear an appropriate life jacket. This includes children and anyone helping you fish. This is regulated by NSW Fisheries and poses an on the spot $100 fine if non-compliant.

Before rock fishing you should always:

Stay safe, always watch the local conditions, never turn your back on the ocean and never fish alone.

If you’re in doubt don’t go out.

Local alerts

For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/pulbah-island-nature-reserve/local-alerts

Contact

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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