Aerial spraying of bitou bush Hat Head National Park

Published on 22 June 2021

Bitou Bush on headland

South African bitou bush is present along the Macleay Valley coast and is a highly invasive plant that smothers native plants and destroys native animal habitats.

NSW Government's National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has advised that aerial spraying of bitou bush along sections of Hat Head National Park including Smoky Cape, Korogoro and Kemps headlands is schedule to take place between Tuesday 22 June and Friday 25 June 2021.  

Extensive toxicology studies have indicated the herbicide is safe to humans and its processes only occur in plants. Studies in mammals have shown the chemical is broken down quickly and eliminated from the body. For more information on bitou bush, please visit the NSW WeedWise website.

The following walking tracks and areas in the Hat Head National Park will be temporarily closed for public safety. Please ensure you adhere to signs and directions of NPWS staff.

Smoky Cape Area:

  • Smoky Cape Lighthouse
  • Smoky Cape Picnic Area/Captain Cook Lookout
  • Jack Perkins Walking Track
  • Gap Beach Road, Gap Beach North and South
  • Green Island Fire Trail
  • Little Bay Picnic Area
  • Little Bay to Smoky Cape Lighthouse Walking Track

Hat Head Area:

  • Kemps Corner Headland access road from Hungry Road
  • Kemps Headland and walking track
  • Korogoro Circuit Walking Track
  • Gap Carpark
  • Connors Beach and Third Beach
  • Connors Hill Trail