THE $2 million upgrade of the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area’s Wodi Wodi Track has been opened by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) South Coast Branch just in time for the holidays.

The Wodi Wodi track is a 6.5 km walking track, named after the original Custodians that lived along the Illawarra coast. The track has been designed to provide a comfortable one day circular trip, starting at Stanwell Park Railway Station and ending near Coalcliff Railway Station.

Altogether, 2.15 km of track were significantly upgraded. Classified as Grade 4 Australian walking track, the mostly uphill route weaves through dense forest, features stunning sandstone stairs, elevated boardwalks, and passes tranquil creeks, unique flora, and breathtaking ocean glimpses.

The upgrade marks another milestone in the broader 67-kilometre Great Southern Walk, a premier multi-day hike that will stretch from Sydney to Wollongong upon completion.

The Great Southern Walk will allow visitors to explore some of NSW’s most spectacular coastal and forest landscapes in a sustainable and low-impact way.

 The $2 million upgrade took 18 months to complete in challenging, remote terrain, requiring careful planning and multiple helicopter operations. Track realignments were made to better manage and preserve cultural and environmental features, while stormwater management has been improved through grade reversals, drainage, and paved swales.

The NSW Government has invested $17.46 million to the Great Southern Walk project, which will start in Kamay Botany Bay National Park, and finish at the Gateway Centre, Bulli Tops.

Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park said the project will bring people from all over the world and allow them to enjoy the wonders of our region, while also protecting our local natural environment.

“This is a beautiful part of the world, and I’m so proud and excited it gets to feature as part of the Great Southern Walk,” he said.

“Our national parks and reserves are increasingly rare and valuable pockets of wilderness.”

State MP for Heathcote, Maryanne Stuart has thanked the workers for the construction of the sandstone steps and repairs to the track. 

“This is a beautiful part of the northern Illawarra and connection to our coastal walking tracks,” she said.

“I thank the Minister for the Environment and Minister for the Illawarra and South Coast for their passion and commitment to the conservation of these areas.”

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