A CLIMB to the top of The Rock in southern NSW has always been a popular activity.
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But in recent years the amount of people who have reached the summit and posted images to social media sites appears to be growing.
To enhance the experience a walking and cycling track linking The Rock township to The Rock Hill Reserve has been established. Lockhart Shire tourism and economic development officer Jennifer O’Connor said the track promotes The Rock as a tourist destination and provides visitors and the community with an opportunity for additional recreational activity.
NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE STATISTIC ON VISITS TO THE ROCK HILL (indicating car movements):
- 2012 – 17,477
- 2013 – 19,395
- 2014 – 19,565
- 2015 – 36,800
- 2016 – 31,760
The new track was completed after the Lockhart Shire collaborated with National parks and Wild Life and members of the community to secure some $80,000 in funding. Lockhart Shire Council successfully applied for funding through the National Stronger Regions Funds to develop The Rock Hill cycle and walking track.
Ms O’Connor said the new improvements at The Rock Nature Hill Reserve include the walking paths, signage, toilets and barbecue facilities.
She said the paved path made The Rock Hill reserve even more accessible.
A previously used loop or track that connected the Yerong Creek Walking track via the Towers area was also re-opened. The National Parks and Wildlife Service have been recording visitor and vehicle numbers there since 2001.
Despite extensive flooding affecting visitor numbers in September and October last year, 2016 still averaged good numbers.
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