What does EcoNetwork do?

As a conservation and natural heritage network, EcoNetwork has proactive policies to help to conserve both terrestrial and marine environments and to address the excesses of development and governments.
Being proactive has led to many initiatives, among which are:

• Expansion of Tomaree National Park (896 to 2274 hectares).
• Conservation of remnant bushland (Wanda, Mambo Wetlands) and koala habitat.
• Council’s Energy Smart Homes Program.
• Marine ecosystem and waterways protection, including six (free) vessel sewerage pump-outs.

EcoNetwork-Port Stephens Inc. was founded in March 1993 and comprises 22 community, environmental and eco-tourism groups including Port Stephens Tourism Limited, eco-tourism businesses, local and regional conservationists.

EcoNetwork’s vision projects an eco-oriented culture that addresses the total human condition for a holistic quality of life now and the transfer of intact natural systems to future generations.

Objectives

1. To unify members, affiliates, communities and their organizations in co-operation around shared values, common interests and objectives.
2. To initiate and conduct educational and awareness programs within local communities on ecological values, ecosystems and related issues.
3. To conduct workshops, seminars and forums on contentious issues relating to planning and conservation.

Main Policy Directions

• Addressing climate change through a just transition from fossil fuel use to renewable technologies.
• Conservation of terrestrial and marine ecosystems in national parks and marine park sanctuaries.
• Planning and urban stabilisation through Development Control Plans - retaining “sense of place”.
• Socially useful and environmentally responsible investment for ecological sustainability.

EcoNetwork is an incorporated association registered under the Model Rules of Incorporation of the New South Wales Office of Fair Trading.

Information and Membership Enquiries: The Secretary, EcoNetwork - Port Stephens Inc. P.O. Box 97, Nelson Bay, NSW, 2315. Telephone: +612-4981-0170 or Email: econet@nelsonbay.com