Autumn Track Work Brings New Life to South Coast Trails

Three key walking spots along the South Coast are now safer and more stable thanks to a big autumn effort by a team of Support Volunteers. Across three separate six-day campaigns, 20 volunteers rolled up their sleeves to install nearly five tonnes of track stabilisation materials at Boat Harbour, Parry Beach, and Rame Head.

At Boat Harbour and Parry Beach, erosion had taken its toll on ageing infrastructure. Track pads first laid 25 years ago had become unstable, creating potentially dangerous walking conditions. Volunteers tackled the job head-on, replacing the worn-out materials with new track pads, adding steps, and installing water-bars to help manage future water flow and prevent further wear.

Meanwhile, at Rame Head, deeply eroded sections of track were stabilised to stop the damage from getting worse—critical work to protect the trail long-term.

The campaigns brought together a strong and diverse group of 20 individuals, with several volunteers contributing to more than one trip. While many had previous experience, the group also welcomed new faces, adding fresh energy to the team. One memorable moment came during the second campaign, when new volunteer John Belton treated the group to a night of music, joined by Tim McGrath—providing some well-earned relaxation after a tough day on the tools.

Thanks to their efforts, these much-loved tracks are not only safer but better equipped to stand up to the elements for years to come.

Boat Harbour – the finished job

Parry Beach – old dangerous conditions and removing old trackpad

Parry Beach – old dangerous conditions and removing old trackpad

Boat Harbour – Field Day volunteers removed old track pad and new pad and steps being installed

Boat Harbour – Field Day volunteers removed old track pad and new pad and steps being installed