Mulumun Trail Masterplan, Branding and Signage

This project, previously known as the Five Headlands Coastal Experience and now renamed the Mulumun Trail, is a walking trail project being delivered by Kempsey Shire Council (KSC) in partnership with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

To support the development of the trail, we engaged an external consultant through a tender process, Arterial Design, to produce a comprehensive Masterplan and brand identity.

The purpose of the Masterplan is to clearly communicate the vision and scope of the Mulumun Trail to the community, while providing strategic guidance for its design, construction, and long-term activation. This includes opportunities for education, tourism, and community engagement that will ensure the trail becomes a valued and sustainable asset for the region.

We’re excited to announce that the project will officially be known as Mulumun Trail, Mulumun means Coastal in Dunghutti and hence the brand reflects the stunning natural features of our coastline along this beautiful walking trail.

Thank you to everyone who contributed ideas through the naming survey in November 2024. Throughout the naming survey we heard a lot of responses from community asking for a name that was in Dunghutti language; after consideration and working alongside the Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC), the Dunghutti Elders Council and local language experts Aunty Caroline and Uncle Bob it was decided that the name should be Mulumun Trail.

We would love for you to provide feedback on the Masterplan. While the branding identity, core design and construction elements are now locked in, we’re inviting feedback to help refine how the trail is presented, promoted, and activated. Your insights will help shape how the community connects with the trail, how we tell its story, and how we ensure it delivers lasting cultural, environmental, and economic benefits.

The project team will now continue planning and development to bring this iconic coastal experience to life with more to come soon.

Overview of the project

Improvements to existing walking tracks and the development of several new linkages will enable residents and visitors to walk sections or the whole trail, with the option to stay overnight at a local national park or in other existing nearby accommodation. The project will produce a product unique to the region and enable local tourism operators to offer cultural and nature-based experiences along the route that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, keen walkers and those who enjoy a scenic stroll.

Stage One

The first stage of the project (Stage One) is due for completion by the end of June 2026. This section of the experience will cover an area of approximately 80 kilometers and run from South West Rocks and Point Plomer in Limeburner’s Creek National Park.

To deliver Stage One, Council and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service have secured $3,355,000 from the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund. Council and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will also help fund the project by contributing $850,000 and $574,500, respectively.

The project team is developing the exact route, including any new linkages, which are still to be determined following further investigations. Currently the project team alongside Soil Conservation Services have completed a section of the trail from Big Nobby to Goolawah Beach, Crescent Head.

For any additional context and background. All work to date is on the major works page.

Have Your Say Macleay

This project is on public exhibition until close of business Wednesday 1 October 2025.