The NSW Nationals are investing in the community of Evans Head by constructing and upgrading walking tracks, to make it easier for the community to access Chinamans Beach.

Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said more than 50,000 people use the tracks in Dirawong Reserve each year for surfing, fishing and birdwatching, as well as accessing more isolated beaches and rocky shores.

“This $27,668 investment by the NSW Nationals will improve access to Dirawong Reserve, a stunning part of Evans Head that draws tourists to the area and is also used for outdoor weddings,” Mr Anderson said.

“The construction and repair of walking tracks will support community recreation and tourism and help protect the environment and Aboriginal cultural heritage of this beautiful coastal area.”

The funding will repair damage and construct tracks after recent heavy rains caused erosion and landslips, to improve public safety and access to the shoreline.

Track stabilisation work will also reduce erosion in ochre pits in the Red Hill area that are of great significance to the Bundjalung people. The project will help train Indigenous workers, building capacity in the local Aboriginal community.

The investment is part of $16.48 million being offered Statewide by the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund to support 264 projects on Crown Reserves to benefit the cultural, sporting and recreational life of hundreds of local communities.

Crown reserves provide communities with land for everything from walking tracks, green space, parks, and ovals to showgrounds, racecourses, surf lifesaving clubs, and community halls.