While COVID-19 restrictions have been in place, Forestry Corporation of NSW has been working to improve many visitor experiences in the Coffs Coast region.

Forestry Corporation’s Partnership Leader Ryan Ellis said that the iconic Forest Sky Pier in Orara East State Forest has been undergoing significant maintenance work whilst visitors have remained at home during COVID-19 restrictions.

“In order to maintain the award-winning Forest Sky Pier, major works have been undertaken and should be completed mid-winter,” Mr Ellis said.

“Due to scaffolding and workers on site, the Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout will remain closed to visitors during this time.”

Mr Ellis said there are other newly upgraded options in the Coffs Harbour area for visitors wanting a unique forest experience.

“During the extended COVID-19 closure, our staff have been busy improving local walking tracks, including the Midway Track, The Gap and Sealy Lookout,” Mr Ellis said.

“This work has seen a new footbridge installed along the Midway rainforest walking track, vegetation management around Sealy and Korora Lookouts, and the restoration of picnic facilities, sculptures and gardens.”

The main gates at Orara East State Forest will reopen June 13 coinciding with Coffs Tree Tops recommencing operations. In the meantime, visitors can still enjoy amazing views from Korora Lookout along the coast to the north of Coffs.

An exclusion area has been established at the end of Tree Tops car park to restrict access to the Forest Sky Pier carpark and picnic area at Sealy Lookout until the ongoing maintenance work is completed.

During this closure, the Nyanggan Gapi Café is running their coffee van between 8-10am Tuesday-Saturday out of the BMNAC offices at 1 Bray Street, Coffs Harbour.

To find out more about Orara East State Forest and local forest experiences, please visit www.forestrycorporation.com.au