Preliminary concepts for the future of Tomaree Lodge – one of Port Stephens’ most iconic locations – will be unveiled at a public event next week, giving the community a first look at the exciting possibilities for the site.
Commissioned by the Minns Labor Government, the draft concepts have been developed by renowned Hunter-based SHAC Architects, drawing on ideas from community surveys and feedback from interest groups.
A detailed site assessment by SHAC Architects has considered the site’s significant cultural, heritage and environmental value, as well as the constraints that limit future use. While some suggestions were found to be unviable, many others offer strong potential for educational, conservation, cultural and recreational purposes.
These concepts lay the groundwork for the next stage of community engagement and consultation.
SHAC Architects is working closely with the Community Engagement Committee, NSW Government Steering Committee, Hunter Circles, and Worimi community leaders to ensure all perspectives are heard and reflected. These groups will continue to guide both short-term ‘meanwhile use’ initiatives and longer-term plans to enhance the site for future public use.
The release of the concepts will be a major milestone in the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to keeping Tomaree Lodge in public hands, for the community to enjoy for generations to come.
The concept ideas will be presented at a public information session being hosted by the Minister for Families and Communities, Kate Washington at Nelson Bay Bowling & Recreation Club on the evening of Wednesday, 27 August 2025.
Community members are encouraged to attend and have their say, and can register via email at tomareelodge@dcj.nsw.gov.au
Minister for Disability Inclusion and Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:
“The concept plans reveal the enormous and exciting opportunities ahead for this much-loved, very special site – I can’t wait to share them with our community.
“Please come to our forum to hear from SHAC Architects about their close consultation with our community that’s led to concept designs for you to consider, explore and provide feedback.
“This site has had a remarkable history, I want to make sure that our community helps shape its future, so together, we can create a world class destination we can all be proud of.”
Justin Hamilton FAIA, Managing Director SHAC, said:
“SHAC congratulate the community for collaborative and creative placemaking.
“As local architects, we are privileged to have curated custodianship principles for this significant cultural landscape, the water, the land, the forests, and the heritage, alongside and for people with common unity.
“We are excited to share these preliminary concepts for a framework for conservation, celebration, innovation and education for generations.”