Background

Delivery of the community hub is the first step in the NSW Government’s plans to revitalise the Precinct as a thriving regional destination that puts people at its heart. As always intended, the community hub was transferred to the Crown land manager, the City of Coffs Harbour (Council), on 23 August 2023, to manage on behalf of the community.

The community hub provides indoor and outdoor café-style dining, greater focus on open space, with landscaping designed to preserve the area’s unique biodiversity, and new public amenities.

Our role

NSW Public Works (NSWPW) were engaged by Property and Development NSW (PDNSW) to provide project and contract management services, as well as regular site surveillance services.

The NSW Government funded and delivered a new purpose-built enclosure housing the iconic South Solitary Island Lighthouse Optic (SSILO) adjacent to the community hub, celebrating the region’s rich maritime heritage and history. This was in partnership with local community group Friend Of South Solitary Island Lighthouse (FOSSIL) – a coordinated achievement between PDNSW, Council and the community.

NSWPW and PDNSW also worked with local Dunecare group representatives regarding concerns with plant varieties (specifically Pig Face succulents) to ensure the project did not contribute to hybridisation issues in the local area.

The contractor for the community hub was based on the Mid-North Coast and was dedicated to utilising local suppliers and sub-contractors where possible; ensuring the majority of the work stayed within the Mid-North Coast. They also exceeded their Aboriginal participation targets for the project.

Outcomes

Handed over in August 2023, the new community building features a kiosk and restaurant/cafe, community amenities, community meeting rooms, and dedicated space for the naval cadets who utilised the old Vendetta building.

It will support ongoing economic, cultural and community benefits for many years to come.