An eco-friendly welcome
Welcome to EcoNetwork Port Stephens, a not-for-profit and 100% volunteer-run organisation dedicated to the interest of all who treasure and want to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of our Port Stephens estuary, peninsulas and rural hinterland.
Port Stephens contains diverse landscapes including native forests, sand dunes, mangroves and wetlands as well as unique offshore reefs, islands and marine habitats. Our local community has the challenge to protect these natural assets from the ongoing pressures of unsustainable development, tourism and water-based activities.
EcoNetwork Port Stephens, in partnership with many local affiliated groups and businesses, is also closely involved with current statewide, national and global environmental emergencies such as habitat destruction, climate change and plastic pollution.
Join us and enjoy sharing your experiences, expanding your knowledge and contributing to the healthy and happy environment that is Port Stephens.
Our Network in Action
Barrington – Hawkesbury Climate Corridors Alliance
Coordinator of the Hunter Community Environment Centre, Jo Lynch, leads a coalition of groups, including EcoNetwork, planning to save threatened species in the Barrington to Hawkesbury Climate Corridors, Read more
Hunter birdwatchers welcomed in Japan
Hunter birdwatchers welcomed in Japan A birdwatcher visit to Japan signals the first international exchange organised by the Port Stephens Sister Cities Committee since the Covid 19 pandemic halted exchanges. … Read more
Affiliate Profile: Pindimar/Bundabah Community Association
When EcoNetwork asked affiliates if they had any projects where an environmental science student from the University of Newcastle could assist, the Pindimar/Bundabah Community Association was the first to respond. … Read more
Tomaree Ratepayers and Residents Association (TRRA) Update
Tomaree Ratepayers and Residents Association update about issues around Port Stephens and the activities of our local council. Read more
EcoNetwork founder Darrell Dawson wins Port Stephens Freeman Award
In 2023, EcoNetwork Port Stephens celebrates its 30 year anniversary. So this has been a most fitting moment to recognise the founder’s commitment and successes and to celebrate his efforts by awarding him the prestigious Freeman of Port Stephens. Read more
EcoUpdate highlights
EcoUpdate: May 2023
Dear members, friends and supporters, Here’s the latest news, views and events from Port Stephens and beyond. Whether you’re organising an event or looking to attend one, have you thought … Read more
We say YES to The Voice Referendum 2023
We say YES to The Voice Referendum 2023 “We invite you to walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future.” Uluru statement of the … Read more
Toondah Harbour – Fatally flawed wetland venture
Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek will have the final say on whether a $1.4 billion private development on Ramsar-listed wetlands in Toondah Harbour – gateway to Moreton Bay and its … Read more
Cat control in NSW – how it could work
We know that both feral and pet cats kill wildlife in unsustainably high numbers. After decades of research and evidence, what is being done to address this most urgent threat to biodiversity by governments and by cat owners? Read more
Regent Honeyeater captive release – 2022 NSW
Since 2020, three releases of the critically endangered Regent honeyeater have occurred in the Lower Hunter. Here’s Mick Roderick, BirdLife’s Woodland Bird Manager to tell us all about this crucial work. Read more
Sustainable Living
What are you doing in July – Plastic Free July?
What are you doing in July – Plastic Free July? By Ewa Meyer, Renew Hunter Branch Convenor Plastic Free July (PFJ) has developed into a worldwide event, giving us all … Read more
Offshore floating wind farm proposal
President of EcoNetwork Iain Watt and committee members Nigel Waters and Nigel Dique attended a drop-in session by consultants Steve McCall and Hannah Coffey, acting for EDF Renewables Australia. This … Read more
Renew – Travelling Electric
Travelling Electric event a hit with locals Renew Hunter Region Branch’s Travelling Electric event on Sunday 7 May 2023 was a big success with around 70 locals wanting to know more … Read more
Proposal for offshore wind projects off the Hunter
Proposal for offshore wind projects off the Hunter by Iain Watt, President EcoNetwork Port Stephens. The Minister for Climate Change and Energy has proposed an area in Australian Commonwealth waters … Read more
Renew – Hunter Region Branch
The local branch of Renew is looking for opportunities to connect households, businesses, schools and groups in the Hunter’s regional communities with the expert advice and support for us all to work, rest and play in a sustainable and healthy way. Find out how to get involved. Read more