Just in time for Christmas, Reflections Hawks Nest today opened a large saltwater pool for the enjoyment of its guests, the latest improvement project at the popular Hunter and Mid North Coast Crown land tourist destination.
The new pool precinct features the heated, hour-glass shaped pool, 7.7-metres wide and 18m in length with a long underwater “bench” on one side, and sun lounges for park guests to enjoy in the upcoming festive holidays.
The $1.4 million, stage two works also includes the refurbishment of existing amenities near the pool, with plans in the new year to plant native gardens and install a cultural trail.
The $5.1 million stage one precinct development at Reflections Hawks Nest in late 2023 included 14 new contemporary cabins (two of them accessible, six of them dog-friendly) with solar power and recycled rainwater.
Reflections CEO, Nick Baker, said the addition of the pool was a welcome addition for guests, particularly families.
“The pool at our park at nearby Jimmys Beach is extremely popular with children and families, and of course our guests are spoiled for choice having Jimmys Beach and Bennetts Beach to cool off, too,” Mr Baker said.
“We are really pleased to be able to offer the same inviting option for our guests at Hawks Nest and know it will be in demand with our guests during the summer months and even beyond.”
The park infrastructure upgrades were supported by the NSW Government as part of a $28 million loan facility for Reflections Holidays through Crown Lands, to support regional tourism and communities.
Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:
“The completion of these facilities comes at a perfect time for the summer break to support family holidays and our local tourism industry.
“Port Stephens is a popular holiday sport with easy access and an abundance of outdoor nature activities with its great beaches, calm waters, native wildlife including dolphins and whales and excellent adventure sports including fishing, surfing, hiking, sandboarding, snorkelling and scuba diving in a rich marine environment.”
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“Crown land supports community well-being by providing public land for everything from holiday parks and recreation facilities to reserves for native plants and animals.
“Reflections Holidays is a Crown Land Manager that cares for 40 holiday parks and 47 nature reserves in coastal and inland areas, reinvesting all profits back into the parks and reserves as Australia’s only holiday group that is a certified social enterprise.”