Waterways of the Central Coast

With so many magnificent waterways on our doorstep, it’s little wonder that life on the Central Coast revolves around the stunning streams, lagoons, lakes, rivers, salt marshes and estuaries that stretch along the Pacific Coast. To the south, the mighty Hawkesbury River forms a natural boundary, converging with the shallow barrier estuary of Brisbane Waters, before flowing into Broken Bay. In the north you’ll find more than 400 species of wild and wonderful marine and animal life living in the interconnected trio of waterways that make up Tuggerah Lakes. The majestic Lake Macquarie graces the very northern limits.

And the backbone of this special region? That would be the vast Pacific Ocean with its 80 kilometres of coastline and 41 picturesque beaches that are beloved by surfers, sailors and beachgoers alike. Since the late 1800s, these sweeping waterways have captivated visitors with their exquisite scenery, wildlife and unbeatable good times.

_{Words: Lyndsey Douglas of WritersWho in collaboration with Love Our Waterways.}

The Central Coast's waterways offer a wealth of awe-inspiring experiences waiting to be discovered. Immerse yourself in the Hawkesbury River and cultivate your own oysters while standing waist-deep in the water or serenely paddle through the hinterland waterways, where the elusive platypus may reveal itself. From the headlands, witness the breathtaking spectacle of Humpback whales breaching in the winter swells. During low tide, stroll across tidal sandbars, revealing hidden treasures.

These waterways hold deep cultural significance as traditional fishing grounds for the Guringai, Darkinjung, and Awabakal Aboriginal peoples. Today, they continue to provide sustenance, recreation, sanctuary, and employment for the hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors who flock to this unique aquatic environment. The waterways not only shape the physical landscape but also profoundly influence the quality of life on the Central Coast. With organisations like Take 3 for the Sea and local ECO Certified businesses, the community actively preserves and promotes sustainable practices, ensuring the long-term well-being of these cherished waterways.

Living and travelling more sustainably and thoughtfully can significantly improve the health of our bushland, beaches and waterways. You can play an active role in improving the Central Coast's waterways by being aware of your actions in your homes and gardens, on your walks and swims, and when you’re fishing or boating.

1. Embrace reusables, refuse disposables.
2. Shun single-use plastics, seek sustainable solutions.
3. Take your trash, leave no trace.
4. Scoop the poop, show dogged discipline.
5. Have some class, wash your car on the grass.
6. Be green, compost your lawn clippings.
7. Leash your hound, protect wildlife around.
8. Launch at ramps to fortify the foreshore.
9. Sail with care, slow up near seagrass rare.
10. Boaters, sea to it that you manage liquid waste.
11. Walk on designated paths, not fragile vegetation.
12. Near the ocean? Avoid dunes to prevent erosion.