Milestone reached with opening of D5 section of Beach-to-Beach Path

COMMUNITY members and dignitaries gathered in Dunbogan this week to celebrate the official opening of the D5 section of the Beach-to-Beach Shared Path.

The newly completed section features 240 metres of boardwalk, including 220 metres constructed over water.

The 2.5 metre-wide shared path includes a five metre-wide accessible area and is fitted with LED lighting, enhancing safety and visibility during evening hours.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in a project that began more than a decade ago.

With an overall vision of an 11.2 kilometre shared pathway connecting beaches, the completion of this stage is a moment of pride for the community and a reflection of years of dedication.

Funding for the project was a collaborative effort, with all three levels of government contributing.

Federal, State and Local representatives were present at the opening, including Federal Member for Lyne Alison Penfold, State Member for Port Macquarie Rob Dwyer, and Port Macquarie-Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts.

Members past and present of the Beach to Beach Committee were also in attendance, many of whom have worked tirelessly to see the vision come to life.

Committee member Penny Small expressed her gratitude, saying, “It’s an amazing facility for our community.

“It provides equity of access and safe access for everyone.”

While current representatives celebrated the achievement, special acknowledgment was given to those who had helped lay the groundwork, including former Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie, former Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams, and former Mayor Peta Pinson.

With more than eight kilometres of the pathway already complete, momentum is building to finish the remaining sections.

While securing future funding may pose challenges for members not in government, the drive and commitment of the community remain as strong as ever.

By Luke HADFIELD