Overview
Australia's three levels of government – local, state and federal – wrap a lot of red tape around innovative initiatives. But, for once, the three are working together to bring you a whizzbang new adventure. With Manly at its northern end and Bondi at its southern, the 80-kilometre Bondi to Manly Walk will hug Sydney Harbour and the East Coast nearly all the way, taking in secluded coves, spectacular views, bushland, clifftops, legendary landmarks and, as the name suggests, two of our busiest beaches.
Putting their weight behind the concept for many moons have been John Faulkner, a former Labor senator, and Lachlan Harris, former senior press secretary for Kevin Rudd and chief executive of RevTech. The two co-founded the Bondi to Manly Walk Supporters Group.
Around 60 kilometres of the trail pass through public land, while the remaining 20 are comprised of footpaths. Many are already part of established routes, but will be linked together and clearly marked. Just some of the well-known spots the trail will visit are North Head, Balmoral Beach, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, Point Piper and South Head.
The halfway point is Kirribilli — perfect for a dip in the North Sydney Pool, a spin on the ferris wheel or a picnic overlooking the Harbour.
There'll also be an educational element to the experience. According to the SMH, signposts along the way will cover history and culture, with an emphasis on the people of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the land through which the Bondi to Manly Walk travels
There's no word yet on when the Bondi to Manly Walk's construction will begin (or be completed), but with the government partnership being announced — and signed by six Sydney councils — yesterday, we're hoping it starts to take shape pretty quickly. We'll update you as soon as anymore announcements are made.
Image: Watsons Bay.