Missing link added to Manly Dam

A new 400-meter boardwalk and several viewing platforms have made Manly Dam accessible to everyone.

Manly Dam has been upgraded with a 400-meter-long raised boardwalk and several viewing platforms, making the popular reserve more accessible.

Manly Warringah War Memorial State Park, also known as Manly Dam, is Sydney’s largest freshwater lake, has a rich Aboriginal history, and has received a long-awaited upgrade.

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said the new elevated boardwalk along the foreshore represents a significant benefit for both the environment and visitors.

“Extensive works to upgrade and improve the recreational trail will protect flora and fauna, while improving accessibility between popular picnic areas,” said Mayor Heins.

The bush around Manly Dam contains remnants of Aboriginal camps and a wide variety of threatened species, which will now be protected.

The upgrade will make the trail easier for older Australians, children and people using wheelchairs, with the addition of viewing platforms.

Additionally, construction of a water access platform on the shoreline of Section 1 Picnic Area (adjacent to the playground) will commence this month and completed in time for the summer holidays.

On the Manly Living community Facebook page, hundreds of community members applauded the upgrade as “fabulous”, “gorgeous”, and “perfect”.

“I am so thankful that Manly Dam has been upgraded so that i don't have to walk on the road,” said Pamela CM. “The Anzac Day event and the permanent memorial keeps the memorial part very much to the forefront.”

However, some locals were eager to keep the local oasis a secret.