Here is some of the Latest News from around Port Stephens and our recent Submissions on issues of local significance. Below are also our Media Releases and Our Network in Action.
EcoUpdate: September 2026
September is biodiversity month and protecting our natural and cultural environment is this theme. Read more
Help us protect Mambo and Wanda Wetlands as an Aboriginal Place
Heritage NSW is receiving submissions on the viability of Mambo-Wanda Wetlands being declared an Aboriginal Place to recognise their cultural value to the original inhabitants of the land, the Worimi. This would support the environmental and community values we all want to protect. Read more
What do Shoal Bay, sea squirts and unsolved mysteries have in common?
Econetwork’s Marine Forum August 2026 examined the “Resilience of Port Stephens’ Coastal and Marine Life” to the effects of climate change on our local marine ecosystems in unexpected ways. Read more
EcoNetwork Anna Bay Service Station DA 16-2026-233 – objection
EcoNetwork Anna Bay Service Station DA 16-2026-233 – objection Council has an obligation to exercise a precautionary principle with regard to flooding and protection of our ground water, and to … Read more
Residential Flat Building 42 Donald Street and 5-7 Church Street Nelson Bay, Port Stephens (Belvedere): SSD – 83366960 – objection
Residential Flat Building 42 Donald Street and 5-7 Church Street Nelson Bay, Port Stephens (Belvedere): SSD – 83366960 – objection EcoNetwork Port Stephens urge this State Significant Development (SSD) be … Read more
Land and Environment Court: DA 16-2024-611-1 Tourist and visitor accommodation Swan Bay (LEC no. 2025/449061) – objection
Land and Environment Court: DA 16-2024-611-1 Tourist and visitor accommodation Swan Bay (LEC no. 2025/449061) – objection Update May 2026 – DA appeal thwarted In an important win for the … Read more
Forum: Local experts to tackle Port Stephens’ marine challenges
Port Stephens breathtaking underwater world is teeming with unique biodiversity. But beneath the surface, a rapidly changing climate is pushing these fragile habitats to their limits. How resilient is our local marine environment against these escalating threats? We explore answers with marine experts at out Forum. Read more
EcoNetwork’s Marine Special Interest Group
We’re excited to announce the formation of a special interest group dedicated to protecting and understanding the incredible marine life in the Port Stephens Estuary and nearby coastal waters. Read more
EcoUpdate: November 2025
We’re excited, our Festival is this Saturday, so get the scoop here with all the great things happening. Our November edition has stories of concern around Port Stephens that are needing your help. We can all make a difference to help our nature. Read more
Biodiversity Month
September is National Biodiversity Month This is a time to celebrate our natural wonders and diverse ecosystems. Biodiversity Month offers us the perfect opportunity to pause and appreciate the beauty, … Read more
Contradictory news for Mambo Wetlands
Port Stephens Council has made some concessions about building on the Mambo buffer zone. They have agreed NOT to build on the area west of Tomaree Library. We are still asking Council to stop development in ALL areas of remaining buffer zone around Mambo Wetlands. Council have agreed to investigate the reclassification of these areas so that the community is not continually fighting these battles to protect Mambo Wetlands. Read more
Swan Bay DA – a win for the environment
Swan Bay DA – a win for the environment and the Far Eastern Curlew In an important win for the environment, a proposed tourist accommodation park at 1107 Swan Bay … Read more