THE Port Stephens community is remembering the life and legacy of dedicated volunteer Peter Murray, whose passion for people and place has left a lasting imprint on Boat Harbour’s coastline.
A long-time leader with the Boat Harbour Parks and Reserves volunteer group, Mr Murray played a pivotal role in transforming the Noamunga headland into one of the region’s most loved coastal walking destinations.
What was once an area impacted by erosion and informal foot traffic has become a safe, accessible and environmentally protected space for locals and visitors alike.
“I am very proud to have been a part of the project and I would like to thank committee members and the volunteers for giving such a great gift to our community”, he said during the 2017 official opening of the walking track from Telegraph Point to Iluka reserve.
The track was made possible through grant applications and with the assistance of the Green Army, Anna Bay Scouts, Tomaree High School and a handful of passionate volunteers.
Following his recent passing after a battle with cancer, tributes have flowed for a man described as generous, quietly determined and deeply committed to his community.
Driven by a deep care for the environment, Mr Murray helped secure funding, coordinate volunteers and oversee the development of the now well-used whale watching walk.
The track protects fragile coastal vegetation and also provides a stunning vantage point to witness the annual whale migration.
Mr Murray’s work extended beyond environmental outcomes.
The headland and surrounding tracks have become an important gathering place for connection and reflection, forming part of the annual “Walk With Us” suicide prevention event.
It is this intersection of environment and human wellbeing that defines Mr Murray’s legacy.
Through volunteering, he helped create not just a walkway but a space where people come to move, reflect, heal and connect.
Fellow volunteer and friend Dave Sams OAM, said Mr Murray’s contribution is a powerful reminder of what community-led action can achieve.
“[Peter was] a great man, whose work stands as a testament to the impact one person can have when they give their time, energy and care to something bigger than themselves,” he said.
Port Stephens Council is in the process of installing an interpretative sign at the Boat Harbour whale watching path.
A Council spokesperson told News Of The Area that “the sign celebrates the achievements and contribution of Peter Murray and volunteers, as well as information about whale migration and local ecology.”
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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