The entrance to Bass Point Tourist Road, where a two-kilometre stretch is set for a major upgrade. Photo: Kellie O’Brien.
Navigating potholes and debris will soon be a thing of the past, with a key stretch of Bass Point Tourist Road in Shellharbour set for a major overhaul to improve safety, access and resilience against future severe weather events.
Starting in November, the two-kilometre section between the main entrance gate and the Bushrangers Bay carpark will be rebuilt with a sealed surface and upgraded drainage.
The work will be delivered through the $200 million Infrastructure Betterment Fund, jointly provided by the Australian and NSW governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the project would ensure the popular tourist road was “built back better, stronger and more resilient” to withstand future disasters.
“By investing in the long-term future of roads like Bass Point Tourist Road, all levels of government are working together to help communities better withstand the impacts of natural disasters while preserving access to important cultural and environmental landmarks,” Ms McBain said.
Federal Member for Whitlam Carol Berry said Bass Point’s unique environmental and cultural heritage made it an essential asset for the region.
“Bass Point is an iconic location, and I am proud that the Albanese Labor Government has joined with the NSW Government to contribute close to $1 million to deliver much-needed road improvements at this site,” Ms Berry said.
“Bass Point is an important asset for our visitor economy, and infrastructure improvements are a very practical way for the Federal Government to contribute to the development of our local economy and community experience of this beautiful location.”
Planning and approvals have ensured works protect Bass Point Reserve’s environmental and cultural significance, with the road remaining within its existing footprint.
It contains one of the few littoral rainforests in the Illawarra and is recognised as one of the most important archaeological sites on the NSW coast.
NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the reserve was a special place, both environmentally and culturally, with the upgrades ensuring it could be safely enjoyed for many more years.
“These upgrades will make it easier for people to visit and enjoy the reserve while ensuring its unique environment and heritage values are protected for generations to come,” Ms Saffin said.
State Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson, who has long advocated for the project, said the $1 million in joint funding — along with a further $300,000 from Shellharbour City Council — would deliver essential infrastructure improvements along the existing road alignment.
“Bass Point Reserve is a living tapestry of culture, nature, and history,” Ms Watson said.
“From its rare littoral rainforest to its deep Aboriginal roots and wartime legacy, this headland offers visitors a powerful connection to the Illawarra’s past and present, and this road will make it accessible for locals and visitors.”
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the council had worked closely with both levels of government to ensure the project’s timing minimised disruption.
“These much-needed upgrades will improve safety, reduce maintenance and provide a more reliable experience for all who visit Bass Point,” Councillor Homer said.
“The timing of works has been carefully planned to protect the reserve’s unique environment and ensure full access for the community during the peak summer holidays.”
Vehicle access to most of Bass Point Reserve will be closed during construction, though Maloneys Bay and Red Sands carparks will remain open.
Pedestrian access via the walking track from the gravel-loader carpark to Bushrangers Bay will also remain available.
To support summer visitation, full vehicle access will be restored during the six-week holiday period from 17 December to 27 January, with construction expected to be completed by March 2026, weather permitting.
