Kiama Harbour’s Future: Community Input Sought for Revitalisation
Kiama Council is actively seeking community members to join a dedicated working group tasked with shaping the future of Kiama Harbour. This initiative marks a significant step towards revitalising a key local landmark, aiming to transform it into a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
A Collaborative Approach to Harbour Development
The Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Working Group will serve as a crucial link between the community, the Council, and state government bodies like Crown Lands and Transport for NSW (including NSW Maritime). This collaborative approach ensures that any development aligns with existing strategies and, importantly, reflects the desires of those who use and value the harbour.
Councillor Mike Cains has been a vocal advocate for this project, emphasizing the need to move beyond years of limited improvements and unlock the harbour’s potential. He envisions a revitalised space that attracts visitors and showcases the natural beauty of the region, particularly the whale watching opportunities.
What Will the Working Group Do?
The group’s responsibilities are multifaceted. They will review the 2021 Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Action Plan, providing input and community perspectives for Council consideration. A key objective is to advocate for improvements and updates to the implementation of this plan, pushing for tangible progress.
Beyond the existing plan, the working group will also research and document successful harbour revitalisation projects from other locations, identifying key learnings, opportunities, and potential challenges. This comparative analysis will inform best practices for Kiama Harbour.
Who Should Apply?
Kiama Council is looking for five community members with relevant experience, and expertise. Crucially, applicants should be well-connected and representative of the broader Kiama community. The Council is committed to diversity in membership, aiming for gender balance, cultural and age diversity, and representation from across the Kiama Local Government Area.
Pro Tip: Highlight any experience you have with community engagement, project management, or local tourism when submitting your expression of interest.
Meeting Schedule and Logistics
The working group is scheduled to meet quarterly. Meetings will be held either in person at the Council Chambers or virtually via Microsoft Teams, offering flexibility for members.
The Bigger Picture: Harbour Revitalisation Trends
Kiama’s initiative aligns with a broader trend of harbour revitalisation projects across New South Wales and Australia. These projects often focus on balancing commercial activity with public access and preserving the unique character of each location. The approval of the Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Action Plan, with a built-in five-year review for further community feedback, demonstrates a commitment to long-term, adaptive planning.
Did you recognize? Successful harbour revitalisation often involves a mix of infrastructure upgrades, improved public spaces, and the attraction of complementary businesses, such as cafes, restaurants, and tourism operators.
How to Get Involved
Expressions of Interest close at midnight on Friday, March 6, 2026. Interested individuals can find more information and submit their application through the Kiama Council website. For specific inquiries, Kimberley Norton can be contacted at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the working group? To provide a platform for community input into the revitalisation of Kiama Harbour.
- Who can apply? Residents of the Kiama Local Government Area with relevant experience and a connection to the community.
- When do expressions of interest close? Midnight on Friday, March 6, 2026.
- How often will the group meet? Quarterly.
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