Ecotourism and sustainability

Preserving our best nature for future generations.

Sustainability is one of the major worldwide tourism trends of the 21st century. Sustainable tourism goes beyond just enjoying travel; it involves actively protecting and restoring our natural environment while preserving our unique wonders and cultures for current and future generations to enjoy.

Ecotourism Australia defines ecotourism as “ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.”

The Barrington Coast brand is built around nature-based experiences... we're famous for them! We proudly offer many unique experiences in nature, from the world heritage Gondwana rainforests of Barrington Tops to our Ramsar Convention listed Myall Lakes.

Read more about where to be embraced by nature in the Barrington Coast.

MidCoast Council is on the journey to certifying the Barrington Coast as an Eco Destination by late 2024. This certification will allow our positioning as a world class destination, backed by a commitment to ongoing sustainable practices, and providing high-quality nature-based experiences.

Barrington River paddling by Ben Cirulis

Rocky Crossing Walking Track Williams River, Barrington Tops

Moss covered log in Barrington Tops by saigonaussiebabe

Ecotourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry worldwide. As a region known for our natural assets this certification helps demonstrate our commitment to striving for sustainability at an international best practice standard.

Ecotourism aims to preserve the integrity of our destination. Its focus is on conserving the local environment and historical heritage while supporting local culture and encouraging people to look after the natural attractions that attract them to the region.

In simple terms, it’s about leaving a place the same way you’d like to find it. Just like your mum (probably) always said: “find it pristine, leave it pristine”.

Korsmans Landing, Myall Lakes National Park

Leave No Trace is a set of principles that started with bushwalking but easily applies to any interaction you may have with nature in the Barrington Coast, from our remote wilderness forests and waterways to our beaches and local parks. It’s all about being conscious of the effects your presence - and actions - may have on plants, animals, other people and even entire ecosystems.

Combine these principles with some simple waste messages and you get good inspiration for your next nature experience. This will help guide your own journey towards sustainability and becoming an advocate for ecotourism:

Plan ahead and prepare for a safe journey
Tread gently on Country
Take 3 pieces of plastic off the beach/street to support #Take3fortheSea
Refuse single use plastics and dispose of your waste correctly
Respect the local neighbourhood
Camp smartly and responsibly
Give local wildlife space
Leave behind what you find
Take home local stories, photos and produce to share
Leave only footprints

(with thanks to Destination Central Coast)

Accommodation businesses in our region eco accredited by Ecotourism Australia:

Myall River Camp, Hawks Nest
Wandha Myall Lakes, Bungwahl

Myall River Camp also recently won three awards at the North Coast Tourism Awards 2024, including Bronze in the category 'Excellence in Specialised Tourism (Ecotourism)'.

Meanwhile we have many other tourism busineses also taking the path less travelled to ensure a better future. This may involve improving the resilience of landscapes, waterways and wildlife habitats... or simply trying to change people's shopping habits for a better world.

Accommodation: