Funding For New Facilities At Nobby's

BY ARIANA GATTI and GARY-JON LYSAGHT

A $1.5 million project plan was unveiled today to develop the iconic Nobby’s Headland precinct.

The NSW Government is providing at least half a million to the project which will see viewing decks, a cafe, restaurant, conference facilities, a play area and an outdoor exercise area established.

The new developments around the Newcastle coast will be open to full use by the community, with stage three commencing soon.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Catherine Cusack says the funding is coming from the proceeds of the long-term lease of Newcastle Port.

Cusack says, “It’s Newcastle’s working harbour that’s produced the revenue, it’s the passionate community and volunteers who have designed the project and made it happen”.

The project will be administered by local business group, Newcastle Now, and director Chris Leck said corporate and community support is being sought to fund the project.

Leck says, “One of the strategies that we have is for a crowdfunding campaign,” he said, adding he couldn’t be certain when it will be launched.

“I’m not sure exactly when, but shortly, so that the community have an opportunity to get behind it as well.”

Stage three of the project will involve the internal fit-out of the catering and conference facilities in the existing buildings on the site.